Scenario Library
Lease vs Buy, Broken Down by Car Price
The lease vs buy verdict changes with the sticker price. Each breakdown below runs the same math as our calculator — a 36-month lease against a 60-month loan at typical 2026 rates — so you can see monthly payments, total costs, and the winner before you ever talk to a dealer.
Pick your price point
Lease vs Buy a $20,000 CarLease $329/mo · Buy $419/moLease vs Buy a $25,000 CarLease $406/mo · Buy $523/moLease vs Buy a $30,000 CarLease $484/mo · Buy $628/moLease vs Buy a $35,000 CarLease $561/mo · Buy $733/moLease vs Buy a $40,000 CarLease $638/mo · Buy $837/moLease vs Buy a $45,000 CarLease $715/mo · Buy $942/moLease vs Buy a $50,000 CarLease $793/mo · Buy $1,047/moLease vs Buy a $60,000 CarLease $947/mo · Buy $1,256/moLease vs Buy a $70,000 CarLease $1,102/mo · Buy $1,466/moLease vs Buy a $80,000 CarLease $1,256/mo · Buy $1,675/mo
Your numbers will differ — run them.
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Guides that explain the math
How to Negotiate a Car Lease: What Bends and What Doesn't4 min readLease Buyout vs Return: What to Do When Your Lease Ends4 min readMoney Factor Explained: Your Lease's Hidden Interest Rate4 min readResidual Value: The Number That Secretly Sets Your Lease Payment4 min readCar Lease Fees Explained: Every Charge Hiding Behind the Payment4 min readLease Mileage Limits: What Going Over Actually Costs You4 min read
All figures are estimates based on the stated assumptions and exclude state-specific taxes, registration, and dealer incentives. They are informational only, not financial advice — confirm exact terms with your dealer or lender.