The average golf cart price can range widely, generally falling between \$1,500 for a very basic, older used model and exceeding \$25,000 for a brand-new, fully loaded, luxury golf cart cost model.
Deciding how much to spend on a golf cart depends on many factors. You need to think about where you will use it. Will it be just on the course? Or maybe on your neighborhood streets? Your budget is a big part of the final cost. This guide will help you see what you can expect to pay for new and used carts. We will look at different types and what makes the golf cart prices change so much.
Fathoming the Factors That Shape Golf Cart Prices
Many things make one golf cart cost more than another. Knowing these parts helps you decide what is right for your wallet and your needs. Think of it like buying a car. A basic model costs less than one with all the bells and whistles.
Power Source: Electric vs. Gas
The motor type is a major cost driver. Electric golf cart cost and Gas golf cart cost differ significantly when new.
Electric Carts
Most modern carts use electricity. They run on large batteries.
- Pros: Quiet operation, low maintenance, zero emissions.
- Cons: Battery replacement can be costly down the road (every 5–10 years). Range is limited by battery charge.
Gas Carts
These use a small gasoline engine, similar to a lawnmower engine.
- Pros: Longer range between refueling, easier to find replacement parts in some areas, often better for rougher terrain.
- Cons: Louder, require oil changes and spark plug maintenance, produce exhaust fumes.
The New golf cart cost for an electric model might be slightly higher initially due to battery technology, but gas models can sometimes be cheaper on the base price.
New vs. Used Market Value
The biggest price jump comes from buying new versus buying used.
New Golf Cart Cost
Buying new gives you the latest features, full factory warranties, and peace of mind. Golf cart dealership prices for new models start higher. You are paying for perfection and the newest technology.
Used Golf Cart Price
A used golf cart price is much lower. The price drops quickly once a cart leaves the lot. You save money, but you might inherit existing wear and tear. Always check the battery life on used electric carts; this is the biggest potential hidden expense.
Cart Size and Passenger Capacity
Do you need space for just two people? Or do you need to carry four or even six people? More seats mean a longer frame and more materials, which raises the price. Standard two-seaters are the cheapest. Extended four-passenger carts cost more.
Features and Accessories
This is where prices balloon quickly. A base model is just that—basic. People often add extras that drive up the final price.
- Lifting Kits: Lifting a cart for rougher terrain adds cost.
- Custom Wheels and Tires: Fancy rims look great but add hundreds of dollars.
- Enclosures: Weather protection costs extra.
- Stereo Systems and Lights: Added electronics increase the total.
Intended Use: Standard vs. Street Legal
This is a key differentiator in pricing. A cart meant only for a golf course has fewer safety requirements. A street legal golf cart cost is always higher.
Street Legal Requirements
To drive legally on public roads (where allowed by local law), a cart needs specific safety items:
- Headlights and taillights
- Turn signals
- Brake lights
- Seatbelts
- A windshield
- Sometimes side mirrors and a horn
Adding these factory-installed safety features significantly increases the new golf cart cost.
New Golf Cart Cost Ranges (2024 Estimates)
When shopping at a golf cart dealership prices will vary by brand (like EZ-GO, Club Car, Yamaha) and features. Here is a general breakdown for purchasing new.
| Cart Type | Base Features | Estimated New Price Range | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic 2-Passenger (Gas/Electric) | Standard top, basic seats | \$8,000 – \$11,000 | Good for flat golf courses. |
| 4-Passenger Family Cart (Electric) | Longer body, standard speed | \$10,500 – \$14,000 | Common choice for neighborhood cruising. |
| Street Legal Golf Cart Cost | Added safety equipment, upgraded batteries | \$13,000 – \$18,000 | Must meet local road regulations. |
| Luxury Golf Cart Cost | Premium upholstery, advanced tech, powerful motor | \$17,000 – \$25,000+ | High-end brands, custom looks. |
| Utility/Work Carts | Dump bed, heavy-duty suspension | \$11,000 – \$16,000 | Designed for moving materials, not just people. |
Exploring Used Golf Cart Price Points
Buying used is a smart way to save money. However, buyers need to inspect things carefully. The used golf cart price depends heavily on age, condition, and battery health (for electric models).
Factors Affecting Used Prices
- Age: How old is the cart? Carts over 10 years old often need major work soon.
- Usage Hours/Miles: How much work has it done? Low hours suggest less wear.
- Battery Condition: For electric carts, new batteries can cost \$1,500 to \$3,000. If the used cart needs batteries immediately, factor that into the purchase price.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often hold their value better than obscure ones.
Used Price Tiers
- Budget/Project Carts (\$1,500 – \$3,500): These are often older, basic models. They might need new tires, seat repair, or battery servicing. Great for someone handy who wants a quick fix-up project.
- Good Runner Carts (\$4,000 – \$7,000): These are typically 5–8 years old, running well, and possibly recently serviced. They usually serve well on the golf course or short neighborhood trips.
- Late Model/Low Hour Carts (\$7,500 – \$12,000): These carts look almost new. They might only be 2–4 years old and have lots of life left. You get near-new features without the full new golf cart cost.
Deep Dive: Custom and Specialty Carts
If you want something unique, prepare for a higher investment. A custom golf cart price reflects the specialized labor and high-end parts used in modification.
Why Custom Carts Cost More
Customization means taking a standard cart and changing almost everything about it.
Performance Upgrades
People often upgrade motors and controllers for more speed or better torque. This is crucial if you live in a hilly area or want your cart to move faster than the standard 15–20 mph limit. Performance parts are expensive.
Aesthetic Overhauls
This includes custom paint jobs, high-quality marine-grade upholstery, premium sound systems, and unique lighting schemes. These upgrades are purely cosmetic but add significantly to the final bill. A truly luxury golf cart cost often sits in this custom category.
The Cost of Going Street Legal (Aftermarket)
If you buy a used standard cart and want to make it street legal golf cart cost compliant later, be prepared for installation fees. Buying the parts separately and having a shop install them can cost \$2,000 to \$4,000, depending on the quality of the parts chosen. It is often more cost-effective to buy one that is already built to street-legal standards from the dealer.
Comparing Electric vs. Gas Operating Costs Over Time
While the initial purchase price is important, long-term running costs matter too.
| Operating Aspect | Electric Cart | Gas Cart |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel/Energy Cost | Electricity is cheap; charging costs pennies per mile. | Gasoline costs fluctuate; higher cost per mile than electricity. |
| Maintenance | Very low; periodic brake checks, tire rotation. | Moderate; requires oil changes, spark plugs, air filters. |
| Major Service Item | Battery replacement (every 5–10 years). | Engine rebuilds (rare, but expensive if needed). |
| Noise/Pollution | None. | Noticeable noise and emissions. |
For most residential and short-range uses, the electric golf cart cost of operation is significantly lower over the cart’s lifespan compared to a gas model.
Where to Buy and How It Affects the Price
The source of your purchase strongly influences the final amount you pay.
Golf Cart Dealership Prices
Dealers offer the best selection of new carts and certified used carts.
- Pros: Full financing options, strong warranties, professional service department, easy access to necessary upgrades.
- Cons: Highest prices due to overhead (showroom, staff, marketing). They set the benchmark for golf cart prices.
Private Sellers
Buying from an individual selling their cart directly saves you the dealer markup.
- Pros: Lowest potential price. You can often negotiate well.
- Cons: “As-is” sales mean no warranty. You must be skilled at inspecting the mechanical parts yourself. Battery checks are crucial here.
Specialized Online Retailers
Some businesses specialize in refurbished or newly manufactured “aftermarket” carts built on old chassis.
- Pros: Can offer unique builds at prices below major brand dealerships.
- Cons: Warranty support can be less reliable than established national brands.
Tips for Getting the Best Price on Your Purchase
Whether you are looking for a basic utility cart or a high-end cruiser, you can negotiate and shop smart to save money.
1. Know Your Needs Precisely
Avoid overbuying. If you only drive two miles a day on flat pavement, you do not need a lifted, heavy-duty, long-range, custom cart. A standard used cart will serve you fine. This prevents spending extra on features you won’t use.
2. Compare Financing Options
If you plan to finance, check what the dealer offers versus what your local bank or credit union provides. Better loan terms lower your total cost.
3. Negotiate Accessories
If you are paying the full sticker price for a new cart, ask the dealer to throw in essential accessories for free, like a rear view mirror, a heavy-duty battery charger, or the first year’s basic maintenance checkup.
4. Inspect Used Batteries Closely
When looking at used electric models, ask for a load test on the batteries. A battery that performs poorly under load will need replacement soon, adding thousands to your used golf cart price. Always ask how old the batteries are.
5. Timing Your Purchase
Golf cart sales often follow seasonal trends, similar to boat or RV sales. Late fall and winter are often slower for dealerships, meaning they might be more willing to negotiate prices to meet sales quotas.
Focus on Electric Golf Cart Cost of Ownership
For most people, the electric golf cart cost over ten years is very appealing. Think about this simple comparison:
- Gas: Every few months, you spend money on oil, filters, and fuel.
- Electric: You spend money only on the electricity used for charging and occasional brake pad changes. The major expense is the battery pack, which lasts many years.
When you see a lower gas golf cart cost upfront, remember that you are signing up for more regular maintenance expenses.
Conclusion on Golf Cart Spending
Determining how much a golf cart costs is like asking how much a boat costs—it depends entirely on what you want it to do.
If you are seeking reliable transportation for short distances and minimal upkeep, a gently used, two-seater electric cart offers great value, likely falling in the \$5,000 to \$8,000 range. If you are aiming for neighborhood cruising with the family, want the latest tech, and need street legal golf cart cost compliance factored in, expect to spend \$15,000 or more for a new, quality model.
By clearly defining your usage goals and prioritizing essential features over cosmetic wants, you can confidently navigate the market and find the right cart that matches both your lifestyle and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is a basic new golf cart?
A basic, two-passenger new golf cart from a major brand typically starts around \$8,000 to \$10,000 before taxes and fees. This is the entry point for the new golf cart cost spectrum.
What is the typical lifespan of a golf cart?
A well-maintained golf cart, whether gas or electric, can last 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer. For electric models, the battery pack usually dictates the lifespan unless you replace the pack, which extends the life considerably.
Can I find a good used golf cart for under \$3,000?
Yes, you can find carts in this price range, but they will usually be older (8+ years) or require immediate attention, such as new batteries or significant body/seat repair. These carts are usually listed under the lower end of the used golf cart price spectrum.
Are gas golf carts more expensive to maintain than electric ones?
Generally, yes. Gas carts require routine oil changes, filter replacements, and carburetor adjustments. Electric carts require much less routine mechanical servicing, making their long-term maintenance costs lower, even though the initial electric golf cart cost might sometimes be slightly higher than gas equivalents.
What adds the most to the luxury golf cart cost?
The highest cost drivers in luxury carts include premium sound systems, custom paint or wrap jobs, high-performance lift kits combined with large off-road tires, and advanced lithium-ion battery systems instead of traditional lead-acid batteries.
Do golf cart dealership prices include registration or titling fees?
Usually, the sticker price does not include final registration, sales tax, or destination fees, especially if you are buying a street legal golf cart cost model that requires local road registration. Always ask for an itemized out-the-door price quote.