The golf cart price can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred dollars for a very old, basic model to over \$20,000 for a brand-new, fully loaded luxury cart. The cost of a golf cart depends on many factors, including whether it is new or used, its power source (electric or gas), the brand, and the features it includes.
Fathoming the Factors That Shape Golf Cart Costs
When you look to buy a golf cart, several key elements immediately affect the final price tag. Think of it like buying a car; the model year, engine type, and trim level all matter a lot. Here is a closer look at what drives the golf cart price up or down.
Power Source: Electric vs. Gas Golf Carts
The biggest split in pricing often comes from the power source. Both electric golf cart price and gas golf cart cost have different manufacturing expenses.
Electric Golf Carts
Most modern golf carts sold today are electric. They use batteries (usually lead-acid or lithium-ion) to power an electric motor.
- Pros: Quieter operation, lower maintenance, zero emissions.
- Cons: Range is limited by battery life, batteries need replacement every few years (a significant cost).
The type of battery you choose heavily influences the electric golf cart price. Lithium batteries cost more upfront but last much longer and require less maintenance than traditional lead-acid batteries.
Gas Golf Carts
These carts use a small internal combustion engine, similar to a lawnmower engine.
- Pros: Longer continuous run times, easier to refuel quickly.
- Cons: Louder, produce exhaust, require more regular engine maintenance (oil changes, spark plugs).
Generally, the gas golf cart cost can sometimes be slightly lower initially than a premium electric model, especially if that electric model uses expensive lithium batteries. However, long-term maintenance costs might balance this out.
New vs. Used Golf Cart Prices
Just like any vehicle, buying new means paying a premium for the latest technology and a full warranty. Buying used offers great savings but carries more risk.
New Golf Cart Cost
A new golf cart cost reflects the current market value, manufacturer warranty, and the latest safety features. You get peace of mind with a new purchase. Reputable brands command higher prices for their quality control and support.
Used Golf Cart Prices
Used golf cart prices are highly variable. A cart only a few years old might sell for 50% to 70% of its original price. Key factors affecting used pricing include:
- The age of the batteries (for electric models).
- The overall condition of the body and chassis.
- The cart’s intended use (course use vs. neighborhood driving).
Always check the motor and suspension when looking at used options.
Brand and Quality
The manufacturer plays a huge role in the final price. Established brands often mean better parts and service networks.
| Brand Tier | Example Brands | Typical Price Range (New Standard) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium/Luxury | Club Car, E-Z-GO (High End), Taylor-Dunn | \$12,000 – \$25,000+ | Advanced technology, superior ride quality, long warranties. |
| Mid-Range | Yamaha, E-Z-GO (Standard), GEM | \$8,000 – \$14,000 | Good balance of features and reliability for most uses. |
| Budget/Non-Signature | Various lesser-known or off-brand manufacturers | \$6,000 – \$9,000 | Basic functionality, often found online or through smaller dealers. |
When shopping, you will see these tiers reflected in the golf cart dealer pricing.
Customization and Accessories
A base model is rarely what people end up buying. Accessories quickly add to the cost of a golf cart. Common add-ons include:
- Enclosures (for weather protection).
- Upgraded seating or custom upholstery.
- Lift kits and large tires (for off-road use).
- Stereo systems and lighting packages.
- Cargo beds or specialized attachments.
Each addition can push the price up by hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Deconstructing the Average Golf Cart Price Segments
To give a clearer picture, we break down the expected costs across different types of purchases. Keep in mind these are general estimates, and the average golf cart price can fluctuate monthly based on supply.
New Standard Golf Cart Cost Breakdown
A standard, two-passenger, street-legal (or near street-legal) cart from a major manufacturer will fall into these general categories:
- Basic Lead-Acid Electric Cart: Expect the new golf cart cost to start around \$8,500 to \$10,000. This is for a cart designed primarily for short trips around the neighborhood or basic course use.
- Premium Lithium-Ion Electric Cart: The inclusion of lithium batteries adds significant cost upfront. These carts often start at \$11,500 to \$14,000 for the base model.
- New Gas Cart: A new standard gas golf cart cost generally starts in the \$9,000 to \$11,000 range, depending on the brand.
Exploring Used Golf Cart Prices
Used golf cart prices offer substantial savings, but condition is everything.
- Older (5+ Years Old) Carts: You might find these for \$2,500 to \$4,500. These often require immediate maintenance, especially battery replacement if they are electric. These qualify as cheap golf carts, but buyer beware.
- Mid-Life (2–4 Years Old) Carts: These are typically in good shape, often coming off a lease from a golf course. Prices usually range from \$5,000 to \$8,000.
- Nearly New Carts (Under 2 Years Old): These might sell for 80% or more of the original price, often \$7,500 to \$10,000.
The High End: Luxury and Specialty Carts
If you are looking for carts equipped for long commutes, heavy-duty work, or premium leisure, prepare for a significant investment.
The luxury golf cart price bracket starts where the mid-range ends and goes up. These carts feature:
- Four or six seats.
- Higher speed capabilities (sometimes exceeding 25 mph).
- Full automotive-style dashboards, climate control, and high-end suspension.
- Custom paint jobs and accessories.
You can easily spend \$18,000 to \$25,000 or more for a fully decked-out, low-speed vehicle (LSV) conversion.
Deciphering Additional Ownership Costs
The sticker price is only the start. To truly know how much a golf cart costs, you must factor in ownership expenses beyond the initial purchase.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance requirements differ sharply between electric and gas models.
Electric Cart Maintenance
The primary ongoing cost here is the battery system.
- Lead-Acid Batteries: Need regular watering and cleaning. They usually last 3 to 5 years, with replacement costing \$1,200 to \$2,000 for a full set.
- Lithium Batteries: Last much longer (8 to 10 years) and require almost no upkeep, but the initial price is higher. Replacing a lithium pack can cost \$2,500 to \$4,000.
- General Maintenance: Brakes, tires, and belts are relatively inexpensive to replace, similar to a small car.
Gas Cart Maintenance
Gas carts require standard engine upkeep.
- Oil changes, air filters, and fuel filters are periodic necessities.
- Spark plug replacement is cheap.
- Tune-ups usually cost \$150 to \$350.
- The engine itself may require major overhauls over many years, costing significantly more than battery replacement.
Insurance and Registration
If you plan to use your cart exclusively on private property (like a golf course or large private community), you might not need insurance or registration. However, if you convert it to an LSV to drive on public, low-speed roads, state laws require registration, licensing, and insurance.
Insurance costs vary, but expect to pay \$100 to \$300 per year for basic liability coverage on a cart registered as an LSV.
Charging Costs (Electric Carts)
The electric golf cart price savings over gas are often realized in fuel costs. Charging a cart overnight uses very little electricity. For most standard carts, the cost to fully recharge is usually less than a dollar, often just pennies, making the running cost extremely low.
Navigating Golf Cart Dealer Pricing and Negotiation
Purchasing from an authorized golf cart dealer pricing structure involves specific markups. Dealers offer financing, warranties, and professional assembly, all of which contribute to the final cost.
What to Expect from Dealer Pricing
- MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price): This is the starting point. Dealers rarely sell below MSRP for the most popular new models, especially in high-demand areas.
- Destination Fees: These cover shipping the cart from the factory to the dealership. These fees are often non-negotiable.
- Prep/Setup Fees: Costs associated with the dealer preparing the cart for sale (charging batteries, checking systems).
- Taxes and Title Fees: Standard government charges based on your location.
Tips for Securing a Better Price
- Look for End-of-Year Models: Dealers are eager to clear out last year’s inventory before new models arrive, offering better deals on remaining stock.
- Compare Quotes: Get written quotes from multiple dealers. Do not just ask for the final price; ask for an itemized breakdown of the golf cart dealer pricing.
- Buy Used or Off-Brand: If your budget is tight, exploring cheap golf carts from smaller, independent sellers or looking at off-lease carts can save thousands. Just be prepared to handle more maintenance yourself.
- Bundle Accessories: Negotiate the price of accessories (like a windshield or canopy) if you buy them at the same time as the cart, rather than adding them later at full retail price.
Special Cart Categories and Their Costs
Not all golf carts are designed for the fairway. Specific uses require specialized features that affect the price dramatically.
Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) / LSVs
If you want a cart that looks like a small car and can legally drive on roads with speed limits up to 35 mph, you need an LSV.
- Requirements: These must have headlights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts, and a windshield.
- Cost Impact: Converting a standard cart to meet LSV standards (or buying one built that way) adds substantial cost due to required safety equipment and higher-spec components. Expect the new golf cart cost for an LSV to start around \$14,000 and climb quickly.
Utility and Enclosed Carts
Carts designed for campus security, maintenance crews, or industrial sites are built heavier and often have large cargo beds or specialized attachments.
- These prioritize durability and payload over comfort.
- The robust frame and heavy-duty components mean the cost of a golf cart in this category often starts higher than a comparable two-seater passenger model.
High-Performance and Custom Carts
For enthusiasts who want speed, incredible suspension, or unique aesthetics, the sky is the limit. This is where the luxury golf cart price segment truly shines. Custom paint, aftermarket batteries offering extended range, and upgraded motors can easily double the price of a standard cart.
The Total Cost of Ownership: Electric vs. Gas Comparison
To truly grasp the long-term financial picture, let’s compare the estimated five-year total cost for a typical electric cart versus a gas cart, assuming moderate use (around 500 miles per year).
| Cost Factor | Electric Cart (Mid-Range) | Gas Cart (Mid-Range) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Purchase | \$11,000 | \$10,000 | Assumes mid-range quality for both. |
| Fuel/Energy (5 Yrs) | \$150 | \$1,500 | Electricity is far cheaper than gasoline. |
| Routine Maintenance (5 Yrs) | \$400 | \$900 | Gas requires more fluids and filter changes. |
| Major Component Replacement | \$1,500 (Battery Refresh) | \$0 (Engine should last) | This assumes one lead-acid battery replacement cycle. |
| Total Estimated 5-Year Cost | \$13,050 | \$12,400 | The initial cost difference is minimal over five years. |
Note: This table does not include insurance or potential repairs for unexpected breakdowns. If the electric cart uses lithium batteries, the initial cost rises, but the 5-year replacement cost drops significantly.
Grasping the Value of Cheap Golf Carts
The term cheap golf carts usually refers to older models, carts sold by smaller, less-established manufacturers, or perhaps refurbished units. While the initial savings are tempting, buyers must be extremely cautious.
Risks Associated with Very Low Prices:
- Battery Health: The single biggest risk for used golf cart prices under \$3,000 is often the battery pack. If you immediately need a full set of new batteries, that cost ($\$1,500 – \$2,000$) negates much of the initial savings.
- Frame Damage: Carts used heavily on rough golf courses may have hidden structural or suspension damage.
- Lack of Parts Support: If the brand is obscure, finding replacement controllers, motors, or even body panels can be difficult or very expensive when things break.
If you buy a cheap cart, budget an extra 20% of the purchase price for immediate necessary repairs or upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Golf Cart Costs
How much is a good quality, street-legal electric golf cart?
A good quality, street-legal electric golf cart (LSV capable) usually starts around \$13,000 to \$15,000 when purchased new from a reputable dealer, depending on seating capacity and features like premium lighting and enhanced speed controllers.
Can I get financing for a golf cart purchase?
Yes, most authorized dealers offer financing options, similar to buying a small vehicle. However, interest rates might be higher than for traditional auto loans, especially for lower used golf cart prices.
What is the lifespan of a typical golf cart?
With proper maintenance, a golf cart frame and motor can last 15 to 25 years. The longevity is usually determined by the battery life (3-10 years, depending on type) and the amount of physical wear and tear it sustains.
Are gas or electric carts cheaper to run daily?
Electric carts are significantly cheaper to run daily. The cost of electricity to recharge is minimal compared to the cost of gasoline and the regular oil/filter changes required for a gas cart.
What should I look for when checking used golf cart prices?
Check the condition of the batteries (run time test if electric), look for rust on the frame, test the brakes, and ensure all accessories (lights, horn) work. Also, verify the brand name to ensure parts availability.
Do I have to pay sales tax on a golf cart?
Yes, in most jurisdictions, golf carts are treated as motorized vehicles, and you will be required to pay sales tax based on your local rates when you register or title the vehicle, especially if it is street-legal.