Lease vs Buy Car Calculator
Make the smartest financial decision for your next vehicle. Our comprehensive lease vs buy car calculator helps you compare the true costs of leasing versus buying a car, so you can choose the option that saves you the most money.
Our lease vs buy car calculator shows you exactly which option costs less over time, helping you make the most financially sound decision.
Get detailed breakdowns of monthly payments, total costs, and long-term value for both leasing and buying scenarios.
Make informed choices based on your driving habits, financial situation, and long-term vehicle needs.
Export your calculations as PDF or share your results with family and financial advisors.
Most leases charge a per-mile fee if you exceed the agreed limit. Include it here to reflect true lease costs.
- Lower upfront and monthly costs - You want lower payments and don't mind never owning the car
- Low mileage driving - You drive consistently under 12,000–15,000 miles/year and can avoid excess wear charges
- Latest technology - You prefer having a new car every 2–3 years with the latest tech and safety features
- No customization needed - You don't plan to customize the car (modifications are usually not allowed)
- Predictable maintenance - You want a low-maintenance experience with warranty coverage
- High mileage driving - You drive more than 15,000 miles/year or your driving varies a lot (road trips, gig work)
- Long-term ownership - You plan to own the car for 5+ years, which usually leads to lower total cost than leasing
- Build equity - You want to build equity and eventually drive without a monthly payment
- Customization freedom - You want the freedom to modify your car (tint, wheels, performance, etc.)
- Long-term value - You may want to sell or trade it in later for value toward your next vehicle
How accurate is this lease vs buy car calculator?
Our lease vs buy car calculator uses industry-standard formulas and provides estimates based on the information you provide. For the most accurate results, consult with dealers and lenders for specific terms and rates.
What factors should I consider beyond the calculator results?
While our lease vs buy car calculator focuses on financial costs, also consider your driving habits, lifestyle preferences, maintenance concerns, and long-term vehicle needs when making your decision.
Can I use this calculator for any type of vehicle?
Yes! This lease vs buy car calculator works for cars, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles. Just adjust the vehicle price and terms to match your specific situation.
Does the calculator include all costs?
Our enhanced lease vs buy car calculator includes maintenance costs, sales tax, and depreciation. You can adjust these assumptions in the advanced settings for more personalized results.
Can I save or share my calculations?
Yes! You can export your lease vs buy car calculator results as a PDF, email them to yourself, or generate a shareable link to discuss with family or financial advisors.