Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

The cost over the same period, with the value of what you own at the end.

Leasing usually costs less each month. Buying leaves you with a vehicle that still has value. This compares the total cost over the same number of years, counting what the car is worth at the end.

The vehicle

Vehicle price

Years you will keep it

If you buy

Down payment

Loan interest rate

Loan term in years

Estimated value when you sell

If you lease

Amount due at signing

Monthly lease payment

Cost Comparison

Net cost over the period

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The results are hypothetical, are based solely on the figures you enter and the assumptions stated on this page, and do not account for taxes, fees, or your individual circumstances unless specifically noted. They are not a projection or a guarantee of future results, and they are not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Nothing on this page is an offer or a solicitation to buy any product. Please consult a qualified tax or legal professional about your situation. Nothing you enter is transmitted or stored. All figures remain in your browser and are cleared when you close this page. Lease terms vary widely and may include acquisition fees, disposition fees, mileage limits, and excess wear charges not modeled here. Resale value is an estimate and depends on condition, mileage, and market conditions.