Lease vs. Buy Calculator
Compare the total cost of leasing vs. buying the same vehicle. See which option saves more money based on down payment, monthly payment, and how long you plan to keep the car.
About the Vehicle
How long you plan to keep/drive the vehicle.
Buy with Financing
Lease
Buying saves you $9,977
Based on your inputs, financing and keeping the car is cheaper long-term once you factor in the resale value/equity you build.
When Buying Makes Sense
- You drive a lot of miles each year (15k+)
- You plan to keep the car 5+ years
- You want to build equity and own an asset
- You customize or modify your vehicles
- You value long-term cost savings
When Leasing Makes Sense
- You want a new car every 2-3 years
- You drive fewer than 12k miles/year
- You prefer lower monthly payments
- You want the latest tech & safety features
- You can deduct lease payments (business use)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to lease or buy a car?
It depends on your priorities. Leasing usually has lower monthly payments and lets you drive a newer car every 2-3 years, but you build no equity. Buying costs more upfront and monthly but builds equity and is cheaper long-term — especially if you keep the car beyond the loan term.
What are the hidden costs of leasing?
Leases typically include mileage limits (often 10,000–15,000 miles/year) with overage fees of $0.15–$0.30 per mile, wear-and-tear charges at lease-end, acquisition fees, and disposition fees. Always read the lease contract carefully.
How does resale value affect the decision?
A higher resale value makes buying more attractive because you recoup more money when you sell. Vehicles that hold value well (like Toyotas and Hondas) are typically better to buy, while vehicles that depreciate quickly may be better to lease.
Can I buy my car at the end of a lease?
Yes. Most leases include a buyout option at the residual value. If the car's market value is higher than the residual, buying it out can be a great deal. If market value is lower, walk away.