Lease Or Buy A Car: Cheaper To

Buying or Leasing a Car in 2026: Which Make is Best for You?

: Breaks down "net price" including lost interest on down payments. cheaper to lease or buy a car

: Leasing is usually cheaper month-to-month. In 2026, average lease payments are approximately $613 , while average new car loan payments are around $767 . Buying or Leasing a Car in 2026: Which Make is Best for You

You can calculate your specific net cost using these interactive tools: In 2026, average lease payments are approximately $613

: In 2026, EVs continue to depreciate rapidly (40–60% over 3–5 years). Leasing transfers this rapid depreciation risk to the leasing company.

Whether it is cheaper to lease or buy a car depends on your priority: is typically cheaper for initial monthly cash flow, while buying is significantly cheaper in the long run. Monthly Cash Flow vs. Long-Term Value

: Buying is almost always the "winning" financial move if you keep the car for more than six years. Two consecutive three-year leases typically cost thousands more than one six-year loan. When Leasing is Cheaper