Lease vs Buy Calculator
Compare the true cost of leasing vs buying a car. See total costs and monthly payments side by side.
Quick Take
Compare the true cost of leasing vs buying a car. See total costs and monthly payments side by side. Modify any input and results update instantly — no calculate button needed.
Financial Information Only — Not Advice
This tool uses standard, publicly documented formulas to estimate outcomes. It is for educational use and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Interest rates, fees, and tax figures change over time and are set by lenders, dealers, and government agencies — not by this site. Always confirm current rates and terms with your lender, dealer, or state agency, and consult a qualified professional before making a decision.
Primary Result
Buy - Total Cost
What This Calculator Does
Compare the true cost of leasing vs buying a car. See total costs and monthly payments side by side.
How the Calculation Works
Who Should Use This Tool
Built for lessees checking mileage caps and wear charges, and for deciding whether a lease buyout beats returning the car.
Important Considerations
Remember that actual terms, rates, and costs will vary by lender, your credit score, and current market conditions. These calculators provide educational estimates only and do not constitute professional financial advice. Always compare multiple offers and consult a financial professional before making decisions.
How the math works
Buy cost uses amortization on the purchase price; lease cost sums payments plus the predicted end-of-lease value gap. Residual and money factor are lessor-set; depreciation data is published by used-car research firms.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the purchase price, real APR quote, and a down payment you can make.
- Enter the lease's real capitalized cost, residual, and money factor from the offer.
- Set how long you keep the car and your expected annual miles.
- Read which path costs less over your ownership horizon.
Sources & authoritative references
The definitions, formulas, and benchmarks behind this tool are drawn from the public, primary sources listed below. We do not cite figures we cannot verify.
- Edmunds — Car Buying, Leasing & Value Guides — Edmunds
- Kelley Blue Book — Vehicle Values & Pricing — Kelley Blue Book
- iSeeCars — Used Car Depreciation Studies — iSeeCars.com
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to lease or buy?
How does the comparison work?
What are hidden lease costs?
Benefits of leasing?
When is buying better?
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