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Lease vs Buy Calculator

Compare the total cost of leasing vs financing the same car over the same period, including resale value at the end.

Car price ($)

Lease payment ($/month)

Lease due at signing ($)

Comparison period (months)

Loan down payment ($)

Loan APR (%)

Loan term (months)

Car value after the period ($)

How to use it

Enter the lease payment and amount due at signing.
Enter the loan terms for buying the same car.
Estimate the car's value at the end of the period (the lease residual is a good guide).

How it works

Lease cost = due at signing + payments. Buying cost = down payment + loan payments made during the period + remaining loan balance − the car's value at the end. Ignores insurance (similar), mileage overage fees and opportunity cost.

FAQ

Is it cheaper to lease or buy?

Buying and keeping a car for many years is usually cheapest overall; leasing can make sense if you want a new car every 2-3 years and drive within the mileage limit.

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