Lease vs. Buy Calculator

Compare true cost over the same time period — including the equity you'd still have if you buy.

Vehicle price

Down payment (applied to both scenarios)

Comparison period

Both scenarios are compared over this same period, even though a loan usually runs longer.

Estimated residual / resale value at end of period (% of price)

Used as the lease's residual value, and as a proxy for the vehicle's market value at the same point if you buy instead.

Sales tax rate

Lease terms

Money factor

≈ 3.60% APR-equivalent

Loan terms

Loan APR

Loan term

Results over the comparison period

Total cost of leasing

Net cost of buying (after equity)

Lease payment / mo

Loan payment / mo

Est. equity if you buy

Buying wins by

Estimates only. Assumes the vehicle's market value tracks the residual % used above, and excludes insurance, maintenance, and mileage-overage costs, which can differ between leasing and owning. Sales tax treatment on leases varies by state.