Should you lease your next car or buy it? Compare the total 3-year out-of-pocket cost of both options.
Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator
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How to Use This Calculator
Enter the car price, lease terms, and buying terms including expected resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is leasing sometimes cheaper?
You are only paying for the depreciation during your lease term, not the entire vehicle.
How does the Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator compare them?
The Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator looks at the total out-of-pocket cost over 3 years, factoring in the equity you would have if you bought and sold the car.
Why does the Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator need the residual value?
In leasing, you only pay for the depreciation. The Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator uses the residual value to calculate exactly how much the car depreciates.
Does the Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator account for mileage limits?
This specific Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator focuses on the baseline financials; you must avoid mileage overages manually.
Which is usually cheaper in the Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator?
Buying used is mathematically optimal, but the Auto Lease vs. Buy Calculator often shows leasing is cheaper over a 3-year term than buying a brand new car and selling it immediately.