How Much Are Golf Cars: New & Used Prices 2025

Trying to figure out how much are golf cars can feel like navigating a maze, with prices ranging from that of a used lawnmower to a new compact car. You’re likely wondering why one cart is listed for a few thousand dollars while another, which looks similar, costs five times as much. This guide is designed to eliminate that confusion, providing a clear, data-driven breakdown of every factor that influences the final price tag.

A golf cart can cost anywhere from $2,000 for a basic used model to over $20,000 for a new, fully loaded street-legal vehicle, with the average new cart falling between $5,000 and $15,000.

Leveraging extensive analysis of available market data and established pricing patterns, this guide unpacks the critical insights you need to effectively navigate the golf cart market. We will explore the cost differences between new and used models, gas and electric power, the impact of top brands and seating capacity, and the hidden ownership costs you must factor into your budget. This will empower you to make a smart, confident purchase that perfectly aligns with your needs and financial plan.

Key Facts

Vast Price Spectrum: The cost of a golf cart spans a massive range, from as low as $2,000 for a fixer-upper to more than $20,000 for a high-end, customized Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV).

New vs. Used Cost Gap: A new golf cart typically costs between $5,000 and $15,000, whereas a quality used model can be found for $2,000 to $8,000, offering significant upfront savings.

Battery Replacement is a Major Expense: For electric carts, replacing the battery pack is a significant long-term cost, with prices ranging from $800 for lead-acid batteries to over $2,500 for modern lithium-ion packs.

Brand Reputation Commands a Premium: Leading manufacturers like Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha consistently demand higher prices due to their reputation for quality, reliability, and durability. A new Club Car Onward, for instance, can start at over $9,400.

Size Directly Impacts Price: The price escalates sharply with seating capacity. A standard 2-seater may cost $6,000-$8,000, while a 6-passenger model often starts at $12,000 and can easily exceed $16,000.

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Golf Cart Prices at a Glance: Your 2025 Cost Guide

A golf cart can cost anywhere from $2,000 for a basic used model to over $20,000 for a new, fully loaded street-legal vehicle, with the average new cart falling between $5,000 and $15,000. This wide range can be daunting, but understanding the key categories helps clarify the picture immediately. Whether you’re looking for a simple vehicle for the neighborhood or a custom ride for the course, the price is determined by a handful of critical factors.

The primary drivers of cost are its condition (new or used), its power source (gas or electric), and the level of features and customization. To give you a clear starting point, here is a summary of the typical price ranges you can expect to encounter in 2025.

Cart Type	Typical Price Range 2025
New Electric Golf Cart	$9,000 – $12,000+
New Gas Golf Cart	$10,000 – $13,000+
Used Electric Golf Cart	$3,000 – $8,000
Used Gas Golf Cart	$2,000 – $7,000
Customized/Street-Legal Cart	$10,000 – $20,000+

Quick Fact: Prices can swing from a few thousand dollars to over $20,000 depending on your choices. Let’s break down why.

What Drives the Price? Key Factors Influencing Golf Cart Costs

The final price of a golf cart is determined by five main factors: its condition (new or used), power source (gas or electric), brand reputation, seating capacity, and the level of customization. Understanding how each of these components contributes to the total cost is the key to finding a vehicle that fits your budget without sacrificing your essential needs. Some factors, like choosing a used model, offer immediate savings, while others, like the choice between gas and electric, have long-term financial implications.

Which factor is most important for your budget? As we go through them, think about your must-haves versus your nice-to-haves. This will help you identify where you can save and where it’s worth investing more.

New vs. Used Golf Carts: The Initial Cost Trade-Off

Expect to pay $5,000 – $15,000+ for a new golf cart and $2,000 – $8,000 for a used one; the choice depends on your budget versus desire for a warranty and modern features. This is the single biggest decision affecting the upfront cost of a golf cart. A brand-new cart offers the peace of mind of a manufacturer’s warranty, the latest technology, and pristine condition. However, a used cart provides substantial savings, allowing you to get more features for your money or simply spend less overall. A quality used model from a reputable brand can often be found for between $5,000 and $7,000, while basic “fixer-uppers” can be had for as little as $2,000.

Here’s a direct comparison to help you weigh the options:

Feature	New Golf Cart	Used Golf Cart
Price Range	$5,000 – $15,000+	$2,000 – $8,000
Pros	– Full manufacturer’s warranty – Latest features and technology – No prior wear and tear – Potential financing options	– Significantly lower upfront cost – Great value for the money – Proven reliability (on well-maintained models) – Wide variety of models available
Cons	– Highest initial cost – Faster depreciation	– No warranty (usually) – Potential for hidden mechanical issues – May have outdated technology – Condition varies widely

Pro Tip: Well-maintained used carts from top brands hold their value exceptionally well, making them a smart investment.

Gas vs. Electric Golf Carts: Upfront Cost vs. Long-Term Savings

Electric carts typically cost more upfront (avg. $10,520) but are cheaper to run, while gas carts are often cheaper to buy (starting around $4,000) but have ongoing fuel and maintenance costs. Your choice of power source has a major impact on both the initial purchase price and the total cost of ownership over the life of the vehicle. Electric carts have become the more popular choice for their quiet operation and low environmental impact, but they come with the long-term consideration of battery replacement.

The decision between gas and electric is a classic trade-off: a lower initial investment for a gas cart versus lower operational costs and simpler maintenance for an electric one.

Electric Golf Carts
* Pros:
* Quiet and smooth operation.
* No emissions.
* Lower maintenance costs (no oil changes, fewer moving parts).
* Cheaper to “refuel” with electricity.
* Cons:
* Higher average upfront cost, from $5,000 to over $12,000.
* Limited range per charge.
* Significant battery replacement cost ($800 – $2,500+).

It’s important to note the type of battery an electric cart uses. Traditional lead-acid batteries are cheaper but require regular maintenance and have a shorter lifespan (3-5 years). Modern lithium-ion batteries are more expensive upfront but last much longer (8-10 years), require no maintenance, and offer better performance.

Gas Golf Carts
* Pros:
* Often a lower initial price, from $4,000 to $10,000.
* Longer driving range.
* Quick and easy to refuel at any gas station.
* Cons:
* Louder engine noise and exhaust fumes.
* Ongoing fuel costs.
* More complex maintenance (oil changes, filters, belts).

Are you optimizing for a lower sticker price today or lower running costs over the next five years?

How Major Brands & Seating Capacity Affect Price

Expect to pay a premium for top brands like Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha. Prices scale with size: 2-seaters are cheapest ($6k-$8k), 4-seaters are mid-range ($10k-$15k), and 6-seaters cost the most ($12k-$16k+). Just like in the automotive world, brand reputation and vehicle size play a huge role in determining the price of a golf cart. Established brands are known for their build quality, reliability, and innovation, and their pricing reflects that.

Similarly, as you add more seats, the chassis gets longer, the engine or motor needs to be more powerful, and the overall cost increases accordingly. A basic 2-passenger cart is the most affordable option, while a stretched 6-passenger model designed to move a whole family will be one of the most expensive.

Here’s how these factors break down in the market:

Brand/Capacity	Starting Price Range
Standard 2-Seater	$6,000 – $8,000
Standard 4-Seater	$10,000 – $15,000
Standard 6-Seater	$12,000 – $16,000+
Club Car Onward (2-Pass)	Starts at $9,475
E-Z-GO Liberty (4-Pass)	Starts at $12,699
Yamaha Drive2 (Gas)	Starts at $9,481

For example, a premium Club Car Onward 6-passenger model can exceed $13,000 before any customizations. Does the reputation and reliability of a brand like Club Car or Yamaha justify the higher price tag for your needs?

Beyond the Sticker Price: The True Cost of Owning a Golf Cart

Budget for significant ongoing costs beyond the initial purchase, including annual maintenance ($500-$2,000), potential battery replacement ($800-$2,500), and insurance ($75-$300/year). The price you pay at the dealership is only the beginning. To create a realistic budget, you must account for the long-term expenses that come with ownership. These “hidden” costs can add up quickly if you’re not prepared.

Don’t get caught by surprise! Factoring in these ongoing costs is crucial for setting a realistic budget. Here are the primary expenses to plan for:

Maintenance and Repairs: This is a crucial yearly expense. Annual maintenance, which can include wheel alignment, brake checks, tire rotations, and oil changes for gas models, can range from $500 to $2,000. Unexpected repairs can add to this cost.
Battery Replacement (Electric Carts): This is the single largest long-term expense for electric cart owners. A new set of lead-acid batteries costs between $800 and $1,500 and needs to be replaced every 3-5 years. A superior lithium-ion battery costs over $2,500 but can last up to 10 years.
Fuel or Electricity: While electricity is cheaper than gasoline, it’s still a recurring cost. For gas carts, fuel is a constant expense that fluctuates with market prices.
Insurance: Protecting your investment is essential. Basic liability insurance can be as low as $75 per year, but more comprehensive coverage for theft, damage, and street use typically costs $200 to $300 annually.
Storage: If you don’t have a garage, you may need to pay for a storage unit or invest in a high-quality, weather-resistant cover to protect your cart from the elements.
Customization and Accessories: Few owners stick with the base model. The cost of adding lift kits, custom wheels, sound systems, or upgraded seats can quickly add thousands to your total investment. Making a cart “street-legal” by adding lights, mirrors, and safety features also carries a significant cost.

To make your golf cart even more functional and enjoyable, consider investing in some key accessories. A good quality cover will protect your vehicle from the elements, while a powerful sound system can enhance your rides.

FAQs About Golf Cart Costs

What is a basic golf cart worth?

A basic used golf cart is typically worth between $2,000 and $5,000. The final value depends heavily on its age, condition, battery health (if electric), and brand. A simple, older model in working condition will be at the lower end of that range, while a well-maintained, newer model from a top brand will be closer to the top.

How much does it cost to make a golf cart street-legal?

The cost to make a golf cart street-legal, transforming it into a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), varies but generally adds $1,000 to $3,000 or more to the price. This includes adding required safety features like headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, a windshield, and seatbelts. Buying a new model that is already certified as an LSV is often more expensive upfront but ensures compliance.

How long do golf carts usually last?

The lifespan of a golf cart depends on the brand, maintenance, and usage, but a well-maintained cart from a quality manufacturer can last for 20-30 years or even longer. The frame and body can last for decades. Key components like the engine or electric motor will require service and eventual replacement, and electric cart batteries typically need to be replaced every 3-10 years.

Are electric or gas golf carts cheaper in the long run?

Electric golf carts are almost always cheaper in the long run. Despite having a higher initial purchase price, their ongoing costs are much lower. You save money on fuel, and they have fewer moving parts, which means less maintenance (no oil changes, filters, or belts). The main long-term cost is battery replacement, but this is often less than years of fuel and engine service for a gas cart.

Why is there such a big price difference between golf cart models?

The large price difference is due to a combination of key factors. A new, 6-passenger, street-legal cart from a premium brand like Club Car with a lithium-ion battery and custom features can cost over $20,000. In contrast, a 10-year-old, basic 2-seater used gas cart might only cost $3,000. The combination of new vs. used, gas vs. electric, brand reputation, size, and added customizations creates the vast price spectrum.

Final Summary: Finding the Right Golf Cart for Your Budget

Navigating the world of golf cart pricing comes down to understanding the trade-offs. The final answer to “how much are golf cars” is that it truly depends on your specific needs and priorities. By breaking down the cost into its core components—new versus used, gas versus electric, brand, size, and features—you can move from being overwhelmed by a wide price range to being empowered to build the perfect cart for your budget. Always remember to look beyond the sticker price and consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, fuel or batteries, and insurance.

Set a Clear Budget: Decide your maximum spend, factoring in both the upfront purchase and at least one year of running costs.
Prioritize Your Needs: Are you prioritizing a low initial cost (used), long-term savings (electric), power and range (gas), or passenger capacity (4- or 6-seater)?
Research Brands: A premium brand may cost more upfront but often provides better reliability and resale value.
Inspect Used Carts Thoroughly: If buying used, pay close attention to the battery age and condition, as this is a major potential expense.

Now that you’re armed with this detailed price information, you can confidently shop for a golf cart that fits both your needs and your budget.

Last update on 2025-09-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API