Recreational vehicles (RVs) have surged in popularity in recent years as more people seek affordable and flexible ways to travel and vacation. With so many RV options on the market, from small campervans to luxurious motorhomes, RV prices can vary dramatically based on size, features, and brand. So how much does an RV actually cost? While prices can range from under $10,000 to over $500,000, most RVs fall within the $5,000 to $150,000 range.

The type of RV is the primary factor impacting cost. Smaller and simpler models without kitchens and bathrooms are more affordable, while larger motorhomes with slide-outs, full kitchens and bathrooms, generators, and luxury features reach well over $100,000. Typical price ranges by RV type include:

• Campervans: $8,000–$80,000
• Travel trailers: $5,000–$30,000 
•  Fifth wheels: $15,000–$60,000
•  Class B motorhomes: $60,000–$150,000 
•  Class C motorhomes: $60,000–$150,000
•   Class A motorhomes: $60,000–$500,000+

Of course, there are exceptions above and below these typical ranges depending on factors covered throughout this article. But this breakdown provides a helpful starting point for budgeting different RV options.

Details on what impacts pricing for each RV type

Now that you have an idea of ​​typical price ranges, let's look at specifics of what impacts pricing for each type of RV:

Campervans

For campervans, often converted from cargo or passenger vans, the van's make/model, mileage, conversion company, and included equipment determine the cost. Well-known conversion companies like Sportsmobile, Pleasure-Way, and Airstream use newer vans with low mileage and add higher-end fixtures and furnishings. These raise the price to $60,000 - $80,000. In contrast, DIY conversions of older, high-mileage vans with basic equipment cost under $20,000. Kitchenettes, pop-tops, four-wheel-drive, solar power, entertainment systems, and custom cabinetry increase price, while minimalistic builds without bathrooms or water tanks cost less.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers offer huge variability depending on their size, slide-outs, equipment, and building materials. Simple, single-axle models around 10 to 20 feet long cost between $5,000 and $12,000 new. Travel trailers 25 feet and larger, with slide-out sections and heavier-duty axles can range from $15,000 to $30,000 for mainstream brands. High-end brands like Airstream that use higher-grade aluminum bodies, sleek designs, and premium equipment easily exceed $70,000 for their largest trailers. Folding pop-up tent trailers are also cheaper alternatives to hard-sided varieties.

Fifth Wheels 

Built for pickup truck bed towing, fifth-wheel trailers range wildly in price because of their size differences – from 25 to 45 feet long. Simple 25-30 foot trailers start around $15,000, while 40+ foot luxury models with 4+ slide-outs, rear entertainment centers, and high-capacity water and propane tanks cost $60,000 and beyond. The brand also affects pricing significantly. For example, a Jayco Eagle 341BHS with an outdoor kitchen runs around $50,000, while a comparable Keystone Cougar High-country 381THS is priced closer to $75,000.

Class B Motorhomes  

Also known as camper vans, Class B RVs are the smallest and least expensive type of motorhome but offer full living amenities. Standard models from leading brands like Winnebago, Pleasure-Way, and Roadtrek range from $80,000 to $140,000. Mercedes Sprinter platforms reach the high end of this spectrum, due to their premium brand and higher-quality driving experience. Expect to pay $100,000+ for Sprinter-based camper vans from Airstream, Winnebago or Pleasureway. Custom building a camper van raises the cost even further.

Class C Motorhomes

Class C motorhomes range from entry-level to luxury grades between $60,000 and $150,000 depending on size, equipment, and driving capability. Typical 24-30 foot models cost $60,000 to $100,000 from Thor, Forest River, Winnebago and other major brands. These often feature V10 truck engines for power. Larger super C motorhomes built on medium-duty trucks offer diesel power and higher towing capacity for $150,000 and up. High-end amenities like full-wall slideouts, backup cameras, generator sets, satellite TV, and king beds raise prices quickly for Class C motor coaches. 

Class A Motorhomes 

The largest and most luxurious type, Class A motorcoaches easily exceed $100,000 and can move into yacht territory above $500,000. Entry-level diesel pushers around 30 feet cost between $120,000 and $200,000 with basic equipment. Mid-range 36-40 foot coaches from Winnebago, Newmar, and Tiffin run from $250,000 to $350,000 with full bathrooms and bedrooms, home theater systems, and high-grade furniture. Top-of-the-line 45+ foot brands like Prevost and Marathon can feature luxury "bus-cations" accommodations with costs approaching $2 million.

Additional variables impacting RV pricing

Beyond just the type and size of RV, here are some additional factors that change pricing:

• Age: New RVs have the highest prices that depreciate rapidly, while used RVs from the 1980s onward offer the best budget deals. Classic vintage models can also be expensive. 
• Features: Additional equipment like generators, satellite dishes, tankless water heaters, and solar power add thousands to new or used RV costs.
• Mechanical Condition: RVs with engine, transmission, electrical, or water damage will be cheaper than similar models in good working order. Cosmetic wear also lowers resale value.
• Brand Prestige: Airstream, Tiffin, and Newmar command higher new and used prices than mainstream Thor, Forest River, and Jayco models. 
• Towability: RVs built on heavy-duty truck chassis with higher GCWRs and reinforced structures enable more towing capacity reflected in their price premiums.
• Season and Location: RVs cost more in peak spring/summer buying season and at dealerships in areas with high demand and scarce inventory. 
  

Tips for saving money on RVs

If your budget can't accommodate higher-priced RVs with all the bells and whistles, here are great ways to save:

• Buy used: Gently used RVs from private sellers are 20-40% cheaper than buying new. 
• Choose more compact RV classes: Opt for a travel trailer, truck camper, or Class B over the larger fifth-wheel and Class A/C motorhomes. 
• Avoid peak season: Shop for RVs later in fall and winter when dealers offer end-of-year sales and fewer buyers are competing.
• Search outside metro areas: Look in rural regions since demand is lower, meaning more negotiable pricing. 
• Finance an older model: If financing, choose a 10-20-year-old RV with less depreciation to allow lower monthly payments than new options. 
• Maintain resale value: Keep the RV interior and exterior in excellent shape through cleaning, repairs, and DIY upgrades to maximize resale return.
  

Conclusion 

As you can see, RV prices vary widely based on vehicle type/size and included equipment among other factors. While luxury 45-foot diesel motorhomes reach over $500,000, used travel trailers and pop-ups can cost less than $10,000. Determining your budget, ideal features, and preferred type of RV helps narrow the price range. And following the saving strategies ensures quality options for any budget.

If you need any help navigating the broad range of RVs available at different price points or have additional pricing questions, please contact us today to help find your perfect recreational vehicle for the money!