Is it better to lease or buy a car?

It depends on your driving habits, term length, and budget. This calculator helps you compare total cost and monthly payments for each option.

What factors affect lease vs buy cost?

Key factors include interest rate, residual value, taxes, and fees. The calculator accounts for these automatically.

Lease vs Buy — Premium Comparison

MSRP ($) Selling Price ($)

Down Payment / Drive-off ($)

Trade-in Value ($)

Trade-in Payoff ($)

Net Trade Equity ($)

Residual Value (%) Money Factor (or APR ÷ 2400) Acquisition Fee ($) Doc / Dealer Fee ($) Other Fees ($)

Lease Term (months)

Sales Tax Rate (%)

Estimated Monthly Payment

$0.00

Note: The first lease payment is not included in the capitalized cost and will be due at signing.

Residual: — • Cap Cost incl fees: — • Fees: — • Dep: —/mo • Fin: —/mo • Tax: —/mo

Vehicle Price ($)

Down Payment ($)

Trade-in Value ($)

Trade-in Payoff ($)

Net Trade Equity ($)

Doc / Dealer Fee ($) Other Fees ($) Loan Term (months)

Interest Rate (APR %)

Sales Tax Rate (%)

Estimated Monthly Payment

$0.00

Financed: — • Remaining: — • Total paid (term): —

Category	Lease	Buy
Total Cost at Lease End (incl Residual)

Leasing lets you drive a new vehicle for a fixed period with lower monthly payments but no ownership at the end.
Buying costs more upfront but builds equity over time.
Our calculator shows which path saves you more based on mileage, term, and interest rates.

Click below if you want a more in-depth dealership-level lease or loan calculator and shop with complete confidence.