How Much Does a Golf Cart Cost?
The only thing likely to be more expensive than either your membership or your set of clubs is if you decide to purchase for your own personal golf cart, or if you plan on using it for another reason you need to know these specialised carts come with a pretty large price tag. There are ways to minimize the cost no matter what purpose you are using the cart for, and we will answer both – How much does a golf cart cost, and ways to reduce that price in the article below.
A new Golf cart cost can range from $8- 30,000, and will depend on brand, age, condition, customizations, and location. New Basic carts range from $8-14,000 and second hand carts may start from $2000. Operating costs, including fuel, repairs, and insurance, should also be used to determine the cost of ownership.
Golf carts were originally small vehicles designed for transporting golfers and their equipment around the course. With their compact size, maneuverability and zero-emission electric options, they have become popular not only on the golf course but also hunting, camping, neighborhood use and more. But, how much do these vehicles cost? In this article, we’ll break down the average cost of golf carts and what factors affect the price.
Types of Golf Carts.
While there are three main types of golf carts: electric, gasoline, and custom built, there are many more use cases for them. They have migrated from the golf course and now are often spotted in the literal wilds. they can be used for hunting, camping and for transport in neighborhoods and even airports although when used for these activities they may need modificstions.
We are taking a look at how much golf carts cost that will be run on golf courses, or at the most in neighborhoods rather than those free spirited hunting carts!
How Much Does a Golf Cart Cost?
We have to be if not vague, at least cautious before giving you a figure as there are some many factors that will effect the price of both new and second hand golf carts (we list them below and be warned it’s a long old list) But generally, and very generally the following is what you can expect to play for a golf cart in different circumstances.
We also have a table that shows some of the base model prices of popular brands at the end of this explanation to give you a more researched idea.
- New Electric Golf Carts: On average, New electric golf carts can cost anywhere from 8,000 to $15,000, with high brands with 4-6 seats hitting that $14,000-$15,000 mark before customizations kick in.
- New Gasoline-powered golf carts: These are currently, on the other hand, are a little cheaper when new and although the starting price will be similar, maybe $7,000, the higher end will be under 15,000 and around $12,000 for new unmodified golf carts.
- Second Hand Electric Golf Carts: There are actually more of these around than you would think and golf clubs do update their fleets from time to time ( much like company cars) it does mean that the golf car would be well used, but also if part of a course fleet it would have been (hopefully) well maintained as well. Prices can be as low as $2,000 dollars for an older model, possibly not from a course at that price though. (we have linked to ebay here as a guide)
- Second Hand Gas Golf Carts: There are less of these due to the popularity of electric models, but it is still possible to pick one up relatively cheaply from local groups, facebook craigslist or similar. However it is likely to be older, and with that will come maintenance costs. you can expect around $1500 upwards for a working second hand gas golf cart.
- Custom golf carts are designed to meet specific needs or wants, both on and off the golf course and therefore can range in cost depending on the level and purpose of the customization. On average, custom golf carts can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000 or more.
Regardless of the type, golf carts are an big ticket purchase and investment and it’s important to consider the long-term costs such as fuel, maintenance, and repairs.
So, before making a purchase, make sure to research and compare the options available to find the best fit for your needs and budget. We have some examples of new prices in the table below.
these prices are taken from the USA dealerships in 2023. If you are reading this outside of the USA the prices tend to be similar but of course there will be some variations depending on supply and demand.
Also second hand prices can be as low as $2000 Dollars, we explore this in more detail below, and we have chosen stock models, if you go for customizations, or modifications it will add to the final price.
Table 1: How Much New Golf Carts Cost in 2023.
| Golf Cart Brand | Model | Price | Notes |
| E-Z-GO | Express 2 | $13,794 | You can build it to your specifications on their website, colors, trims etc. We went through and choosing all options came to a total of $16,105 fully kitted out |
| E-Z-GO | Liberty | $15,899 | You can build this 4 seater golf cart to your specifications on their website, colors, trims etc. We went through and choosing all options came to a total of $18,550 fully kitted out |
| E-Z-GO | Express 4 gas | $12,609 | You can build this gas 4 seater golf cart to your specifications on their website, colors, trims etc. We went through and choosing all options came to a total of fully kitted out $14,310 |
| Navitas | Storm | $11,995 | Actually made by Elite golf carts so is customizable |
| Club Car | Onward | $15,189 | Actually priced from a dealer, one of the higher end and more popular brands. |
| Tomberlin | Revenge | $8,995 | Tomberlin are a more reasonably priced option for golf carts, you can check out their range on the link |
| Evolution | Classic 4 Pro | $9,595 | Evolution Electric vehicles offer 2 to 8 seater golf carts with modifications and customizations |
| Yamaha | Drive 2 | $8,707 | Yamaha also offer customization and their base model starts at that price but will all options added can be $15,561.92 |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Golf Carts
The sheer number of modifications and customizations that can be done to a golf cart make this section easy to write, but difficult to price. We will discuss the major factors, and then list the others for you.
The cost of golf carts can vary greatly based on several factors, including brand, age, condition, customizations, and location.
- Brand of golf cart: Golf carts are available from a variety of manufacturers, each with its own level of quality and features. High-end brands, such as E-Z-GO and Club Car, tend to be more expensive than lesser-known brands both in the new and resale markets.
- Golf Cart Age: Older golf carts may be less expensive than newer models, but they may also require more maintenance and repairs and they don’t come with manufacturers warranties unless bought almost new.
- Condition of Golf Cart: Golf carts that have been well-maintained and are in good condition will generally cost more than those that have not been taken care of. though remember that people have different standards, especially when it comes to making a sale….
- Customizations: The more customizations a golf cart has, the more expensive it will be. This can include anything from lift kits and larger tires to custom paint and sound systems or if it has been lifted or not. Below are a range, though not all as there are thousands of them, of the customizations a golf cart can have.
There are several additional features that can add to the cost of a golf cart, which on some brands websites come as customizable options you can add or take away from your golf cart build, yamaha, E-Z-GO and ClubCar allow you to experiment with builds on their sites ( links above) However this customizations can include the following.
- Larger tires and wheels
- Lift kits
- Custom paint and graphics
- Sound systems and entertainment systems
- LED lighting and strobe lights
- Roof and seat covers
- Coolers and storage options
- GPS and navigation systems
- Power inverters and charging systems
- Steering wheel and seat upgrades
- Windshields and mirrors
- Brake upgrades
- Safety features, such as seat belts and roll cages
- Kickplates
- Extra storage or seating
- Turn signals
- Dashboard additions
- Foldable or solid windshields
And that’s just the ones we could think of sitting writing this, there are many more! The cost of these customizations can range from a few dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the type and quality of the feature.
Cost of A lifted Golf Cart
We have a more indepth article on What is a Lifted Golf Cart here on the site, with advantages, disadvantages and use cases if you need to know more. However in a nut shell…
A golf cart that has been lifted 9 had a lift kit modification fitted to it) is both higher and has an increased ground clearance. Although only needed on golf courses with perhaps steeper slopes, they are popular with golf cart owners who are using their carts for off road activities like hunting or camping.
You can expect, depending on the quality of the cart and the lift kit added, that these carts will cost between 1000 and 2000 dollars more than an unlifted golf cart. If you want to know more about this you can check out the link above or the links below.
As a quick aside, it is possible to fit a lift kit after purchase if you want to and they are available for 1-500 dollars for basic options.
New or Second Hand Golf Carts?
We have out some of the advantages and disadvantages in the table below on the differences between buying new and Secondhand golf carts, but it does boil down to basically your wallet and risk tolerance.
| Factor | New Golf Cart | Second hand Golf Cart |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Higher depending on brand | Lower depending on age |
| Warranty | Included often quite generous | Often not included, so if anything goes wrong it’s on you. |
| Customization Options | More available and some brands have build your own cart options | Limited to after market |
| Maintenance and Repair Costs | Lower, especially if under warranty | Higher, both lack or warranty and age |
| Quality | Consistent and high with checks | Varies based on prior use and maintenance |
| Technology | Up-to-date / latest | Outdated unelss relatively new second hand |
| Condition | Brand new / from the show room | Used and depends on use, maintenance and age. |
| Availability | Limited selection by brand or dealer | More variety available as all brands and models will be for sale. |
| Peace of Mind | Higher, you are both covered by warranty and you are the first person to use it. | Lower, always a risk buying second hand, made up for b the price. |
Maintenance and Operating Costs
In addition to the upfront cost of purchasing a golf cart, it’s important to consider the ongoing maintenance and operating costs. Fuel costs will vary depending on the type of golf cart and where you charge or fill it up.
Electric carts will require regular battery charging, which can cost anywhere from a few cents to several dollars per charge depending on the size of the battery and the cost of electricity in your area.
Gasoline-powered carts will require regular refueling, which can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 or more per fill-up depending on the price of gasoline and the size of the fuel tank.
Regular maintenance costs can include tire rotations, oil changes, and battery maintenance. These costs are likely to be a few hundred dollars depending how much you do yourself and how much you use a professional.
Unexpected repairs can also be a significant cost, especially for older or poorly maintained golf carts. It’s important to budget for these costs when considering the overall cost of ownership.
Insurance may also be required for golf carts, especially if they are used off the golf course. The cost of insurance will depend on the type of coverage, the age and value of the cart, and more.
Gas Vs Electric Golf Carts?
While this requires a longer article ( and we will get there) we have the last table for you to compare the two seeing as you are already here.
| Factor | Gas Golf Cart | Electric Golf Cart |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Fuel Cost | Requires regular refueling | No fuel cost, but requires charging |
| Maintenance | Higher | Lower |
| Noise | Noisier | Quieter |
| Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Range | Longer | Shorter |
| Environmentally Friendly | Less environmentally friendly | More environmentally friendly |
| Power | More powerful | Less powerful |
| Refueling | Convenient, widely available | Requires access to charging stations |
| Performance in Hilly Terrain | Stronger | Weaker |
you can check out the other
Where to Purchase Golf Carts
Golf carts can be purchased from several sources, including dealerships, individuals, online marketplaces liek ebay, club websites and craiglist, and rental companies selling their older models.
New golf carts from dealerships tend to be the most expensive option but offer the latest models and a warranty.
Used golf carts from individuals can be a more affordable option, but it’s important to thoroughly inspect the cart before making a purchase to ensure it meets your needs and budget.
Online marketplaces, such as Craigslist and eBay, can also be a source for used golf carts, but buyers should be cautious when purchasing from these sites to avoid scams.
Rental companies often sell their used golf carts at the end of the season. This can be a great option for those looking for a gently used cart at a lower cost.
Further Golf Cart Resources
We are aiming to be an authority on All things Golf Cart and have compiled the list of related content on the site for you if you need to more! You can check out the links below.
- How fast Does a Golf Cart Go?
- What is a Lifted Golf Cart?
- How much does a golf cart cost?
- How far do you walk on a golf course ( if not using a cart)
Conclusion
While there are so many factors, as you can see above, in working out what the price of a golf cart is, there are ballpark figures that can be gathered to make sure you are not over spending. We highlighted the following
- New carts without modifications can range from $8000 to $15,000 dollars be they gas of electric
- Secondhand carts vary more but are cheaper with old models costign from $2000 – $7,000 dpending on age and brand.
- Custom Carts can be upto and over $30,000 dollars if they are heavily customized.
On top of those initial purchase costs there are extra costs with repairs, maintenance and insurance as time goes buy that need to be factored in to the overall cost. However with so many options there will be a cart out there that suits your needs, so let the search commence!
