Complete RV Ownership Cost Calculator

The average annual cost ranges from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the RV type, usage, and financing. Class A motorhomes typically cost $20,000-$30,000 annually, while travel trailers may cost $8,000-$15,000. The largest costs are typically depreciation (15-20%), financing (if applicable), and insurance (2-4% of value).

RV insurance typically costs 2-4% of your RV's value annually. A $100,000 motorhome might cost $2,000-$4,000 per year to insure. Factors affecting cost include: RV type and age, coverage level (liability only vs. comprehensive), your driving record, location, and whether you're a full-timer. Shop multiple providers as rates vary significantly.

Budget $1,500-$4,000 annually for maintenance. This includes: oil changes ($150-$300/year), tire replacements every 3-6 years ($800-$3,000), brake service ($400-$800), appliance repairs ($200-$1,000), weatherproofing and roof maintenance ($300-$600), and miscellaneous repairs. Older RVs and those used extensively will have higher costs. Emergency repairs can cost $1,000-$5,000 or more.

New RVs depreciate rapidly: 20-30% in year one, 15-20% annually for years 2-5, and 10-15% annually thereafter. A $100,000 new RV is typically worth $70,000-$80,000 after one year, $50,000-$60,000 after three years, and $30,000-$40,000 after five years. Depreciation slows after 10 years. Buying a 2-3 year old used RV avoids the steepest depreciation.

It depends on travel frequency. If you travel 30+ nights annually, an RV can be cost-effective. At $150/night, hotels cost $4,500 for 30 nights. An RV's annual cost of $15,000 breaks even at about 100 nights. However, RVs offer freedom, flexibility, and amenities hotels don't provide. Consider your travel style, frequency, and destinations when deciding.

Used RVs offer better value. A 2-3 year old RV has already lost 30-50% of its value but still has most of its useful life. You avoid the steep initial depreciation while getting a relatively modern RV. However, new RVs come with warranties, the latest features, and no hidden problems. If you can afford it and plan to keep the RV 10+ years, buying new can make sense. For most buyers, a well-maintained 2-5 year old RV is the sweet spot.

Common forgotten costs include: registration and taxes ($200-$1,000+ annually), storage when not in use ($600-$3,000/year), campground memberships and fees, propane refills ($100-$300/year), dumping fees, winterization supplies, extended warranties, roadside assistance, upgraded towing equipment, and ongoing upgrades/improvements. Many new owners also underestimate maintenance and repair costs.

Fuel costs depend on your RV type and mileage. Class A motorhomes (6-10 MPG) cost $0.40-$0.67 per mile. Class C (8-14 MPG) costs $0.29-$0.50 per mile. Class B camper vans (15-20 MPG) cost $0.20-$0.27 per mile. For 10,000 miles annually at $4/gallon, expect $2,000-$6,700 in fuel costs. Use our fuel calculator for specific trip estimates.