Lease vs Buy Calculator
Compare estimated total cost of leasing vs buying over the same term. Simple, fast, decision-oriented.
Lease vs Buy Calculator tool
Buy
Lease
Simplified estimate. Does not include maintenance, insurance, taxes, mileage fees, or opportunity cost.
This calculator compares cash outflows over the same term: Buy = down payment + total loan payments − estimated resale value. Lease = due at signing + total lease payments.
The buy scenario estimates a monthly loan payment using standard amortization from the financed amount (price − down payment). Resale value is user-provided because it depends on mileage, condition, and market pricing.
For a more realistic comparison, add expected one-time fees/taxes into the car price (buy) and/or due at signing (lease). Then test multiple resale values to see how sensitive the result is.
Examples
- Compare a 36-month lease vs a 36-month loan with an estimated resale value.
- Increase resale value to see when buying becomes cheaper (or vice versa).
- Try 0 down payment vs higher down payment and see payment/total cost changes.
FAQ
- What does this lease vs buy calculator compare?
It compares estimated out-of-pocket cost of leasing versus buying over the same term. Buying includes down payment + loan payments minus your estimated resale value. Leasing includes due-at-signing + monthly lease payments.
- Does this include taxes, insurance, maintenance, or mileage fees?
No. Those costs vary widely. For a rough comparison, you can add expected taxes/fees into the car price (buy) or due-at-signing (lease).
- How important is resale value?
Very. Resale value is often the biggest driver of the buy-side result. Try a few resale values to understand best/worst cases.
- Is APR the same as interest rate?
APR is an annualized borrowing cost that may include certain fees. For a cleaner comparison, use the lender’s published APR.
- Is this a precise financial recommendation?
No. It’s a simplified model for quick decision support. Consider total ownership costs and your driving habits.