The golf cart price range can span from about \$1,000 for a very old, basic cart to over \$30,000 for a brand-new, high-end, customized model. Buying a golf cart involves looking at many factors, like whether it is new or used, its power source, and what features it includes.
Deciphering the Cost of a Golf Cart
The price tag on a golf cart is rarely a simple number. Many things change how much you pay. Think about the brand, the type of power it uses, and if it’s made just for you. Knowing these parts helps you set a good budget.
New Golf Cart Cost Breakdown
Buying a New golf cart cost means getting the latest features, warranties, and modern efficiency. These carts are built to last a long time. They often use better batteries and stronger frames.
Basic New Carts
For simple needs, like moving around a small neighborhood or a quiet resort, you can find basic new carts. These models focus on function over flash.
- Two-Seater Utility Carts: These are the entry-level models. They usually have basic seats and no fancy extras. Expect prices to start around \$8,000 to \$10,000.
Standard Golf Course Models
These carts are built for the demands of a typical golf course. They need to handle long rounds and varied terrain.
- They offer a bit more speed and comfort than the basic models.
- New golf cart cost for these usually sits between \$10,000 and \$14,000.
Specialty and Lifted Carts
These carts are customized right from the factory. They might have bigger tires, lifted suspensions, or special protection from the weather.
- These models often cost more because of the added parts. Prices generally start higher, near \$14,000 and can easily go past \$18,000.
Electric vs. Gas Golf Cart Cost
The power source greatly affects the sticker price. Electric golf cart price and Gas golf cart cost vary based on maintenance needs and initial setup.
Electric Carts: The Popular Choice
Most people buy electric carts today. They are quiet and need less upkeep.
- Battery Tech Matters: The main cost driver here is the battery. Lead-acid batteries are cheaper upfront. Lithium-ion batteries cost much more to start. They last longer and need less care.
- Pros: Quiet operation, zero tailpipe emissions, lower running costs.
- Cons: Range limitations, battery replacement is a big future expense.
Gas Carts: Power and Range
Gas carts run on gasoline, similar to a small engine. They are great for long trips or hilly areas where battery power might fail.
- Pros: Longer range between fill-ups, easier to refuel quickly, often better performance on steep hills.
- Cons: Louder, require oil changes and spark plug replacements, higher running costs due to fuel prices.
- Cost Comparison: A new gas cart often costs slightly less initially than an equivalent electric cart with lithium batteries, but more than one with standard lead-acid batteries.
| Power Type | Typical New Price Range (Basic) | Key Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Electric (Lead-Acid) | \$8,500 – \$11,000 | Battery watering, periodic replacement |
| Electric (Lithium-Ion) | \$11,000 – \$15,000+ | Minimal, very long lifespan |
| Gas (Internal Combustion) | \$9,000 – \$13,000 | Oil changes, filter checks, tune-ups |
The Value of Used Golf Carts
For many buyers, looking at Used golf cart value makes the most sense for their budget. Buying used can save thousands, but it needs careful inspection. Finding cheap golf carts for sale usually means looking in the used market.
Factors Affecting Used Prices
The resale price of a cart depends on several things. Age and usage are key factors.
- Age: A cart that is five years old will cost much less than a brand-new one.
- Condition: Carts used only on flat, paved paths will hold value better than those used heavily off-road.
- Battery Life (for Electric Carts): This is the biggest variable. If lead-acid batteries are near the end of their life (usually 5–7 years), you must budget for a \$1,500 to \$3,000 replacement soon. Lithium batteries hold their value much better.
- Brand Reputation: Brands like E-Z-GO, Club Car, and Yamaha keep their value well due to parts availability and known reliability.
Price Points for Used Carts
The average cost of golf cart used models varies widely:
- Under \$3,000: These are typically older carts (10+ years old). They might need immediate work, like new tires or battery servicing. They are best for simple, short trips.
- \$3,000 to \$6,000: This range often gets you a cart that is 5–8 years old, perhaps one that has been refurbished. It might have decent batteries and a clean body.
- \$6,000 to \$10,000: Here you find newer models (under 5 years old) or older, high-quality brand models that have been professionally restored. These often come with newer batteries or excellent service records.
Premium Carts: When Money Is Less of an Issue
Some buyers want more than just basic transportation. They look for speed, style, or high capacity. This leads us to the Luxury golf cart price segment.
High-End Features Driving Cost
Luxury golf cart price tags start where standard carts end. These vehicles often blur the line between a golf cart and a low-speed vehicle (LSV).
- LSV Certification: If a cart is street-legal (an LSV), it requires safety features like headlights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts, and VIN numbers. This certification process adds significant cost.
- Performance Upgrades: Upgraded motors, advanced suspension systems for smoother rides, and digital dashboards are common luxury additions.
- Premium Interiors: Think marine-grade vinyl seating, custom paint jobs, full enclosures, and high-end sound systems.
Brands specializing in luxury conversions often charge \$18,000 to \$25,000 or more for these top-tier carts.
Custom Golf Cart Pricing
If you buy from a specialized local builder, you enter the world of Custom golf cart pricing. This is similar to buying a custom car.
The final cost depends entirely on your choices:
- Starting Chassis selection (e.g., a used Club Car DS vs. a new Yamaha Drive2).
- Paint/Body Kit (e.g., choosing a specialized, hard-to-find body style).
- Accessory Tally (winches, brush guards, coolers, stereos, lift kits).
A heavily customized, powerful cart can easily exceed \$20,000, even if the base vehicle was only moderately priced when new.
Hidden Costs: What Your Purchase Price Doesn’t Cover
The initial purchase price is only part of the total money spent on a golf cart. Several ongoing and immediate extra costs must be considered.
Registration and Insurance
If you plan to drive your cart on public roads (where allowed by local laws), it becomes a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV).
- Registration Fees: You will pay state or local fees similar to registering a car. This varies greatly by location.
- Insurance: You must insure an LSV. Standard homeowner policies often won’t cover street use. Expect annual insurance costs ranging from \$100 to \$400, depending on coverage levels.
Charging Costs for Electric Carts
While running an Electric golf cart price is low, electricity is not free.
- A standard golf cart battery pack draws about 5 kWh per full charge.
- If your local electricity rate is \$0.15 per kWh, a full charge costs around \$0.75.
- This is still extremely cheap compared to gasoline, but it is a recurring expense.
Maintenance and Parts Replacement
Even the best carts need care.
- Gas Carts: Need routine service like oil changes.
- Electric Carts: The biggest expense is battery replacement. Lead-acid batteries usually need replacement every 5–7 years. Lithium batteries can last 10–15 years but cost more upfront.
- Tires and Brakes: These wear out faster on carts driven frequently or heavily loaded.
| Maintenance Item | Estimated Cost Range (DIY vs. Shop) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid Battery Pack | \$1,200 – \$2,500 | Every 5-7 years |
| Full Set of Tires | \$300 – \$600 | Varies widely |
| Tune-up (Gas Cart) | \$150 – \$350 | Annually |
| Lithium Battery Pack | \$3,000 – \$5,000+ | Every 10-15 years |
Where to Buy and How That Affects Price
The sales channel you choose influences the final price you pay.
Authorized Dealers
Buying from an authorized dealer for major brands (like Club Car or Yamaha) offers security.
- Pros: Full factory warranty, professional assembly, access to financing, better selection of new models.
- Cons: Highest prices, as the dealer must cover overhead and profit margins.
Private Sellers
Finding cheap golf carts for sale often means dealing with private sellers on classified sites.
- Pros: Potential for the best deals, as there is no middleman.
- Cons: No warranty, “as-is” sale means you inherit any problems, requires you to handle paperwork yourself. Always inspect used carts thoroughly before buying privately.
Refurbishing Specialists
Many independent shops buy old carts, restore them, and resell them.
- These carts often fall between the dealer price and the private seller price.
- They usually offer a short, limited warranty (e.g., 90 days on the powertrain).
Fathoming Golf Cart Resale Value
What you pay today will not be what you get back later. Knowing the golf cart resale value helps you make a smart long-term purchase decision.
Generally, golf carts hold their value better than many other small vehicles, especially if they are well-maintained.
Depreciation Rates
- First Three Years: A new cart loses about 20% to 30% of its value in the first three years, similar to a car.
- After Five Years: Depreciation slows down significantly. A well-cared-for, mid-range cart might only lose 5% of its remaining value each subsequent year.
Lithium battery carts usually maintain a higher resale percentage than lead-acid models because the battery—the most expensive component—is expected to last longer.
Pricing by Application: Matching Cost to Need
The average cost of golf cart depends heavily on what you plan to use it for.
Residential / Neighborhood Use
If you need a cart just for short trips to the pool or mailbox in a retirement community, you do not need luxury features.
- Recommendation: A basic, reliable used electric cart is usually sufficient.
- Target Budget: \$3,500 – \$7,000.
Commercial / Resort Use
Carts used in hotels or resorts see heavy daily use and need durability and easy maintenance.
- Recommendation: Often newer, fleet-specific models, sometimes gas-powered for quick refueling during busy periods.
- Target Budget: \$12,000+ (New or late-model used).
Hunting / Off-Road Use
These require specialized features like aggressive tires, higher ground clearance, and powerful motors.
- Recommendation: Lifted, customized electric carts or robust gas models.
- Target Budget: \$15,000 – \$25,000 depending on customization level.
Determining the Cheapest Option
If the main goal is the lowest possible initial investment, focus your search here to find cheap golf carts for sale.
- Prioritize Used: Avoid new carts entirely.
- Look for Older Lead-Acid: Carts with older lead-acid batteries will have the lowest initial price. Be prepared to buy a new battery set within a year or two.
- Ignore Cosmetics: A cart with faded paint or cracked plastic seats will be priced lower than a pristine one, even if the mechanicals are the same.
- Consider Non-Traditional Brands: While major brands hold value, lesser-known or generic brands might sell for less, though parts availability can become an issue later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the cheapest way to get a golf cart?
The cheapest way is to buy a very old, basic used electric cart privately. You might find one for under \$2,000, but be prepared for immediate repairs, especially concerning the batteries.
Can I drive a golf cart on public roads?
It depends entirely on your local and state laws. In many places, a standard golf cart cannot be driven on roads with speed limits over 35 mph. To drive legally on most neighborhood streets, the cart often needs to be upgraded to Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) status, requiring specific safety equipment and registration.
How long do the batteries last in an electric golf cart?
Standard flooded lead-acid batteries typically last 5 to 7 years with proper care. Modern lithium-ion batteries are designed to last 10 to 15 years, offering a much longer operational life.
Are gas golf carts more expensive to run than electric ones?
Yes, over the long term, gas golf carts are usually more expensive to run. While the initial purchase price might sometimes be lower than a top-tier electric cart, you have ongoing costs for fuel, oil, filters, and more complex engine maintenance, whereas electricity is generally a very cheap energy source for carts.
What is a good benchmark for a reliable used golf cart price?
A good benchmark for a reliable, well-maintained used cart (5 years old or less) from a reputable brand is usually 50% to 65% of its original new price, provided the batteries are in good shape.