Lease vs Buy Calculator
Compare the total cost of leasing a car versus financing and buying it.
Enter your numbers and select Calculate to see results.
About This Calculator
This calculator compares the total out-of-pocket cost of leasing a vehicle versus financing and buying it over the same time period. Buying is offset by the vehicle's resale value at the end of the period, which leasing doesn't provide since you return the car.
How This Is Calculated
Net Cost of Buying = (Down Payment + Payments Made) − Estimated Resale Value
- Total Cost of Leasing
- — Down payment / drive-off fees + all monthly lease payments
Leasing a $35,000 car for 3 years at $400/month plus $2,000 down costs $16,400 total. Buying the same car might cost more upfront but leaves you with resale value, potentially lowering the net cost.
Assumptions
- Buying assumes a 60-month loan regardless of the comparison period; a shorter loan term changes the payment amount.
- Excludes maintenance, insurance differences, and mileage/wear fees, which can meaningfully affect the real-world comparison.
- Resale value is an estimate you provide — actual value depends on condition, mileage, and market conditions at the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated January 15, 2026. Results are estimates for informational purposes only — read our disclaimer.