The golf cart price range can be vast, stretching from a few thousand dollars for basic, used models to well over $25,000 for high-end, custom, or new luxury electric carts.
Buying a golf cart means looking at many options. Prices change a lot based on what you need. Do you need a cart just for the golf course? Or do you need one for your neighborhood or a big property? This guide will break down all the costs so you know what to expect. We will look at new carts, used ones, power types, and extra features.
Grasping the Main Costs of Golf Carts
The cost of a golf cart is not one fixed number. Several key factors affecting golf cart cost push prices up or down. Knowing these helps you budget better.
New Golf Cart Cost Versus Used Golf Cart Value
The biggest factor is whether you buy new or used.
New Golf Cart Cost
A new golf cart cost reflects the latest technology, full warranties, and zero wear and tear.
- Basic New Carts: Entry-level new carts, often for simple community use or short golf rounds, usually start around \$7,000 to \$10,000. These are typically basic two-seaters with standard features.
- Mid-Range New Carts: Most popular models fall here. They offer better batteries, more speed, and some upgrades. Expect prices between \$11,000 and \$15,000.
- High-Capacity New Carts: Carts designed for commercial use, campus transport, or those with four or six seats will push the price toward the \$16,000 to \$20,000 mark.
Used Golf Cart Value
Buying used saves money upfront. The used golf cart value depends heavily on age, condition, and battery life.
- Older Used Carts (5+ Years): These can cost as little as \$2,000 to \$4,000. Be ready for potential immediate maintenance, especially battery replacement.
- Recent Used Carts (2-4 Years Old): Well-maintained carts from good brands might sell for \$5,000 to \$8,000. They still have a lot of life left.
Deciphering Power Source Expenses: Electric vs. Gas
The engine type greatly impacts the initial purchase price and long-term running costs.
Electric Golf Cart Pricing
Electric golf cart pricing is generally higher upfront than basic gas models. This is due to the advanced battery technology required.
Battery Technology Matters
The battery system is the single most expensive component in an electric cart.
- Lead-Acid Batteries: These are the standard, cheaper option. They require regular watering and maintenance. They are less expensive upfront but need replacing every 3–5 years.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: These are the premium choice. They cost more initially—often adding \$2,000 to \$4,000 to the base price. However, they last much longer (8–10 years), require no maintenance, charge faster, and provide consistent power. This makes the total cost of ownership lower over time.
Gas Golf Cart Expenses
Gas golf cart expenses are often lower at the point of sale compared to electric models with premium batteries.
- Upfront Cost: A basic new gas cart might start near the lower end of the golf cart price range, perhaps \$6,500 to \$9,000.
- Running Costs: You save on battery replacement costs. However, you must factor in ongoing fuel costs, oil changes, spark plugs, and air filters. Gas engines are also louder and produce emissions, which some buyers avoid.
| Feature | New Electric (Lead-Acid) | New Electric (Lithium) | New Gas Cart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Starting Price | \$8,500 | \$11,500 | \$7,500 |
| Maintenance Needs | Moderate (Watering) | Low | High (Oil changes, tune-ups) |
| Battery Life Expectancy | 3–5 Years | 8–10 Years | N/A (Engine) |
| Noise Level | Very Quiet | Very Quiet | Loud |
Feature Sets and Upgrades: Where Costs Climb
Once you decide on power, the features you want dramatically affect the final bill.
Standard vs. Specialty Carts
A standard cart is built for utility. Specialty carts are built for looks or specific tasks.
Street-Legal Carts (LSVs)
If you plan to drive your cart on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, you need a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV). These require more safety equipment, which increases the price.
LSV requirements often include:
* Headlights and taillights
* Brake lights
* Turn signals
* Seatbelts for all passengers
* Windshield and windshield wipers
* Mirrors (side and rearview)
Adding these required items can easily add \$1,000 to \$3,000 to the base new golf cart cost.
Luxury Golf Cart Price Points
The luxury golf cart price bracket starts where standard utility ends. These carts focus on comfort, power, and aesthetics.
- High-End Brands: Manufacturers like E-Z-GO RXV Elite, Club Car Onward, or Yamaha Drive2 offer premium chassis and suspension systems.
- Performance Packages: Upgraded motors for higher top speeds (up to 25 mph or more) require better controllers and larger batteries, pushing the price up by thousands.
- Aesthetics: Buyers often pay extra for custom paint jobs, premium marine-grade upholstery, large off-road tires, and sophisticated sound systems.
A fully loaded luxury golf cart price can easily exceed \$20,000 to \$25,000.
Custom Golf Cart Quotes
When you order a completely bespoke vehicle, you enter the realm of custom golf cart quotes. These are project-based prices. You might be taking an older chassis and completely rebuilding it with modern electronics, custom body panels, and specialized accessories. Always get multiple, detailed written quotes when customizing.
Exploring Budget Options: Cheap Golf Cart Alternatives
Not everyone needs a brand-new, top-of-the-line machine. If cost is the main barrier, there are ways to save money.
The Used Market Strategy
As noted earlier, the used market is the best place to find a bargain. Look for carts previously used at small resorts or retirement communities, as they often have lower mileage than course-used carts.
Refurbished Carts
A refurbished cart means a dealer or specialized shop has taken an old cart, replaced worn parts (often the batteries), and given it a fresh coat of paint. These offer a middle ground—cheaper than new but more reliable than a basic, unrestored used model. Expect these to fall in the \$5,000 to \$7,500 range.
Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) vs. Standard Carts
Sometimes, what people think they need is an NEV (street-legal). If you only need to travel within a small, planned community without public roads, a standard golf cart is much cheaper. Always check local rules before deciding on a standard cart versus a more expensive, street-ready NEV.
The Hidden Costs: Beyond the Sticker Price
The price tag is just the start. Long-term ownership involves ongoing expenses that affect your total outlay.
Maintenance Expenses
Maintenance varies greatly by power source.
- Electric Cart Maintenance: Mostly involves checking tire pressure, cleaning the chassis, and occasionally servicing the motor brushes (on older models). The biggest expense here is battery replacement.
- Gas Cart Maintenance: Requires regular oil changes, checking belts, air filter replacement, and fuel system care, similar to a small lawnmower engine.
Charging Costs and Energy Use
If you choose an electric cart, you need to consider electricity use.
- Low Operating Cost: Electricity is cheap. Charging a standard cart overnight often costs only pennies—maybe 10 to 30 cents per full charge, depending on local electricity rates. This makes the electric golf cart pricing offset its high initial cost over several years.
Insurance and Registration
If you register your cart as a street-legal vehicle (LSV), you must pay for insurance, registration, and tags, just like a car. This adds an annual expense that standard, course-only carts avoid.
Financing Your Purchase: Golf Cart Financing Rates
For many buyers, paying thousands upfront is difficult. Golf cart financing rates are available, but they work differently than car loans.
What Lenders Offer
Many golf cart dealerships work with third-party financing companies. These loans are often structured as equipment loans rather than traditional auto loans.
- Interest Rates: Rates vary widely based on your credit score and the lender. Expect rates anywhere from 6% to 15% or higher for shorter terms (3–5 years).
- Down Payment: Most financing will require a down payment, usually 10% to 20% of the purchase price.
Impact on Total Cost
Taking out a loan means you pay significantly more than the sticker price due to interest. Always calculate the total interest paid over the life of the loan to see the true cost. For a \$12,000 cart financed over five years at 10% APR, you could pay nearly \$3,300 in interest alone.
Essential Accessories That Increase Cost
Accessories are customization items that often transform a basic cart into a personalized vehicle. These costs add up quickly.
| Accessory Type | Estimated Cost Range | Impact on Cart Type |
|---|---|---|
| Enclosure (Rain Cover) | \$400 – \$800 | Practical, weather protection |
| Premium Wheels/Tires | \$600 – \$1,500 (Set) | Looks, off-road capability |
| Cargo Box/Utility Bed | \$500 – \$1,000 | Utility/Work carts |
| Solar Roof Panels | \$1,200 – \$2,500 | Range extension (Electric only) |
| Custom Seating Upgrade | \$500 – \$1,200 | Comfort and aesthetics |
If you start with a \$9,000 base cart and add \$3,000 in popular accessories, the new golf cart cost instantly jumps to \$12,000.
Geographic Location and Availability
Where you live also plays a role in pricing.
Dealer Markup and Local Demand
Dealers in high-demand areas (like coastal towns, large retirement communities, or warm climates with active golf scenes) often charge higher prices due to strong local demand. Shipping costs from the factory to remote areas can also inflate the final price you see on the lot.
Used Market Variation
If you live in an area where carts are used year-round, the used golf cart value tends to stay higher because supply is steadier, and demand is constant. In colder climates, you might find better deals on used carts sold in the spring after owners decide to clear out storage space.
Finalizing Your Budget: A Cost Summary
To help you finalize your budget, here is a quick summary based on common buyer needs.
Summary of Expected Costs
| Buyer Profile | Cart Type | Estimated Price | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Budget Buyer | Older, restored used cart (Gas or basic electric) | \$3,000 – \$6,000 | Needs reliable battery checks or regular tune-ups. |
| The Average Golfer | New, mid-range electric cart (Lead-Acid) | \$9,000 – \$12,000 | Good balance of cost and performance for the course. |
| The Neighborhood Driver | New street-legal (LSV) Electric cart | \$14,000 – \$18,000 | Requires insurance and registration fees annually. |
| The Enthusiast/Resort Owner | New Lithium cart with premium features | \$18,000 – \$25,000+ | Low maintenance, high performance, long-term savings on batteries. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much should I expect to pay for a used golf cart battery?
Replacing a set of traditional lead-acid batteries typically costs between \$1,200 and \$2,000. Lithium battery packs are much more expensive initially, often costing \$3,000 to \$5,000 for replacement, though they last much longer.
Are gas or electric carts cheaper to maintain overall?
Generally, electric carts are cheaper to maintain over their lifespan. While the initial electric golf cart pricing might be higher, their maintenance is minimal (tires, brakes, bearings). Gas carts require routine fluid changes, tune-ups, and are prone to more complex mechanical issues as they age.
Can I find a brand-new golf cart under \$7,000?
It is very rare to find a brand-new, street-ready cart under this price. You might find an extremely basic, stripped-down utility cart from a lesser-known brand, or you might find a deep clearance sale. For reliable brands, cheap golf cart alternatives are usually found in the used or refurbished market.
What is the lifespan of a quality golf cart?
A well-maintained electric golf cart can easily last 10 to 15 years, assuming the chassis and body remain sound. The lifespan is usually dictated by the battery life. Gas carts can also last 15+ years if engine maintenance is kept up to date.
Do insurance companies insure golf carts?
Yes, if your cart is street-legal (an LSV), standard auto insurance often covers it. If it is only for use on private property or golf courses, you might only need a rider added to your homeowner’s policy, which is usually inexpensive. Always check with your agent about specific coverage needs.