How Much Does A Class A RV Cost? Average Prices For New And Used Models

How Much Does A Class A RV Cost? Average Prices For New And Used Models 2

Are you on the lookout for a new motorhome and curious to know how much a class A RV costs? If your answer is “yes,” then you’ve come to the right place.

Class A RVs are some of the largest motorhomes you can find — they also have a heavy price tag to match. But, that’s not without good reason.

You see, most class A RVs are practically luxury homes on wheels — you get lots of space and many deluxe features.

Even though these luxurious motorhomes are considerably more expensive than smaller RVs (these include class B motorhomes and towable RVs such as travel trailers, pop-up campers, teardrop/tiny trailers, and sometimes even fifth wheels and toy haulers), their prices can vary significantly.

To help guide you through class A RV prices, I’ve put together this article and included some examples.

Let’s get started.

What Is A Class A RV?

Class A RV

Class A motorhomes are extremely popular among full-time RVers. This is mostly because of their huge size. Some are as long as 45 feet, giving the feeling of being in a real home as opposed to a camper.

Generally speaking, this type of RV is built on a bigger chassis, one that is produced for a coach. Some RV manufacturers will even allow you to customize yours.

What many people love about these motorhomes is all the luxurious amenities they pack in. For example, they often have separate master bedrooms with extra sofas. Some models can comfortably fit six to ten people, or even more if you opt for bunk beds. The living space usually has convertible dining areas that become beds for the night.

Additional sleeping facilities often include a Murphy bed, i.e. a sofa that transforms into a large bed. These large RVs normally have a roomy, fully equipped kitchen. Moreover, many of these RVs include a large bathroom with double sinks, a big shower cubicle, and a bathtub.

So, although the price of this sort of an RV is higher than the one of a class B or class C motorhome, it’s worth investing in because it offers so much more than its class B and class C “relatives.”

What’s The Average Class A RV Price?

The name “class A” covers a wide range of RVs, all varying in both price and size.

The starting retail price for a class A RV is generally between $50,000 and $150,000. That said, you can easily find models that will set you back close to, or even above, a million dollars!

Since there are so many models and prices to choose from, I’ve included a few examples below, all from different price ranges.

Thor Motor Coach A.C.E. 27.2

THOR MOTOR COACH ACE 27.2

The Thor Motor Coach A.C.E. 27.2 is an excellent example of an affordable class A RV. Its starting price is around $132,000 and it’s worth every penny.

Measuring at 28 feet 9 inches in length and being 99 inches wide, it gives you plenty of space. The GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is 16,000 pounds and it’s built on a Ford F-53 frame.

For the price, you get a lot of luxuries. This vehicle has three slide-out options, giving you a few extra inches to move about. At the rear end, you have a bedroom with a king-sized bed, concealed behind a curtain.

You also get a sizable bathroom, a large dinette, and a roomy kitchen. For the RVers who aren’t fast enough to grab the king-sized bed, there are pull-down bunk beds at the front of the vehicle.

This deal includes two TVs — one in the master bedroom and one on the outside. You also get a microwave, a refrigerator, and, of course, ample storage space.

Thor Motor Coach Tuscany 40RT Diesel

THOR MOTOR COACH TUSCANY 40RT DIESEL

Next on the list is the Tuscany 40RT Diesel.

The Tuscany 40RT Diesel is considerably larger and pricier than the one above.

This vehicle’s MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) is around $469,000, but with a length of 41 feet 1 inch, you get a lot more space.

Even at first glance of the floorplan, you can immediately see why this RV carries a heavier price tag. It features a large master bedroom with a king-sized bed, a dresser, a 32” TV, and a private door to the bathroom. 

The bathroom is spacious and comes with a 30” x 42” shower, a washer/dryer, and dual medicine cabinets.

Additionally, this RV offers a buffet dinette, a nice fireplace, a residential fridge, a microwave, a large sofa bed, and 68” reclining theater seating.

The kitchen area is equipped with a recessed electric induction cooktop with countertop covers and a residential dishwasher.

Much like the previous example, this vehicle features drop-down overhead bunk beds as well. This RV is surely one step closer to being a home away from home; a space where you can fit the whole family.

Winnebago Grand Tour 42QL Diesel

Winnebago Grand Tour 42QL Diesel

The Winnebago Grand Tour 42QL Diesel is a little more expensive, with a starting price of just less than $520,000.

With a length of 43 feet and a GVWR of 45,660 pounds, this RV sure packs a punch. At the rear, you have a master bedroom with a recline/incline king-sized bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, plus a private bathroom.

The bathroom in the back is impressive. It features a big shower (42” x 30”), a slide-out linen closet, and a washer/dryer. Walking back through the bedroom, you’ll enter the kitchen area, where you’ll find another, smaller bathroom.

The kitchen is fully equipped with a residential-style refrigerator and lots of countertop space, including a pull-out island counter.

Toward the living area, you have a large corner sofa and a recliner chair. To top it all off, the TV stand features a fireplace.

This RV is excellent for families. There’s plenty of space with almost every wall acting as a slide-out.

Winnebago allows you to choose add-ons which will, of course, affect the total cost of the vehicle.

Newmar King Aire 4531 Luxury

NEWMAR KING AIRE 4531 LUXURY

Jumping to an even higher price tag, we have the Newmar King Aire 4531 Luxury.

True to its name, this RV has all the luxuries you could wish for while on the road. Understandably, all this convenience comes at a price.

This RV from Newmar has a starting price of over $915,000. It is a whopping 44.92 feet long and features three slide-outs, giving it a width of 101.5 inches. It also comes with two power retractable awnings.

If you choose this floorplan, you’ll have two sofas and rotating front seats that double as lounge chairs when the RV is parked.

As you walk toward the back, you’ll see the kitchen/dining area. This is where you’ll get all the essentials, including a dishwasher, a refrigerator, and two pantries for all your food and drinks.

The last part of this RV is the master bedroom where you’ll have access to both of the onboard bathrooms. The one at the rear has a large shower (50” x 34”), a closet with sliding doors, and a washer plus dryer.

Newmar offers you the chance to customize your RV. You can choose both the exterior and the interior design styles (each of the four different interior design options features Ralph Lauren fabrics to add even more luxury), opt for silhouette power window shades, and pick a Winegard satellite dish, among many other options.

One of the key deluxe features is the sleek hardwood cabinetry. Newmar lets you choose between three styles: Cashmere Rift Oak, Ginger Glazed Cherry, and Havana Rift Oak.

Consider Buying Secondhand

Used RV's

Although class A RVs are at the top of most RV enthusiasts’ wish lists, they are a large investment.

Buying a new RV model is not always financially possible (at least not for everyone).

Fortunately, you can also get a decent second-hand class A RV at a reasonable price (if you know where to look, that is).

Models from 2015, 2016, and onward probably aren’t going to be a cheap option. That said, if you’re willing to consider an older model, such as a 2013 one, then there is a chance you can save some money.

Taking a step back in time to 2011, the Newmar released a decade ago still looks good today.

Finding a model such as this one will save you some serious cash and you won’t have to compromise too much on the amenities and luxuries.

There’s also the Forest River 2014 Georgetown, a slightly newer model which is another example of an excellent second-hand RV.

If you’re looking for a slightly newer RV model and willing to pay a bit more, then you might want to consider buying a 2018 Jayco Alante 31V or a 2016 Keystone Fuzion 345.

When searching for used RVs, you have to consider a number of important factors (not just the year and price). Here are a few simple tips:

1. Do Some Research

Before contacting an RV seller about pricing or placing a purchase order, do extensive research. This article is a great start, but however vetted our suggestions, it comes down to personal preference.

RV forums are a place where you could get first-hand tips on which older models are the best. Look for information like the year in which RV companies made quality recreational vehicles that aren’t too outdated today, and so on.

2. Know Your RV Goals

What are your hopes for this vehicle? Are you thinking about full-time RVing and traveling cross-country? Or would you rather stay close to your home state and only use the RV a few times a year?

Full-time traveling and infrequent RV use may require different types of RVs.

3. Start Looking

Sometimes, no matter how hard you search for your ideal used RV, you won’t find it online. That’s why it’s important to also start looking around. Talk to fellow RVers, for example.

You might also be able to find a good model by driving through residential neighborhoods and RV parks; there could be some with a “for sale” sign attached.

P.S. If you’re looking to rent an RV, you might want to check RVshare.com or similar sites.

4. Ask Questions

Before paying for anything or test driving an RV model you like, make sure to find out as much as possible about the vehicle’s previous history.

This can include the mileage, past repairs or restorations, number of owners, and why it’s being sold. Ask to see invoices and receipts. Run a vehicle history check.

5. Test Drive

If you are mechanically minded, take the RV for a drive to check out the motor, handling, etc.

If you’re not particularly tech-savvy, enlist the help of a friend who is! Make sure there is no damage to the bodywork, chassis, or engine that could negate the savings you’re making.

Please keep in mind that even the vehicles at RV dealerships can get damaged. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, which is why conducting a detailed inspection of the RV is an absolute must.

6. Make an Offer and Enjoy Your New-Old RV!

Once you’re 100% sure that a certain vehicle suits your wants and needs, make an offer and seal the deal.

P.S. Some sellers cover their RVs with a limited warranty, so be sure to ask about this as well.

Other Cost Considerations When Buying A Class A RV

When buying a class A RV, the cost of the vehicle isn’t the only expense you should consider.

Running a large RV can get expensive. You’ll need insurance, large generators, and sometimes even an RV battery. All of this is in addition to the cost of off-season storage, unless you’ve got a big garage.

Insurance

Insurance For RV

Travel trailer insurance is usually no big deal.

However, since class A RVs are much larger and pricier, the insurance for these RVs can get quite costly.

The cost of the insurance depends on the RV’s age, size, and value as well as on the frequency of use (how often you expect to hit the road).

I can’t give you an exact figure since it also depends on the state you’re living in, but I can give you an example.

If you believe that you’ll use your RV for 140 days every year, then you can expect to spend between $1,000 and $1,300 annually on insurance.

Sales Tax

Brand new class A RVs are expensive, but their price isn’t the only expense. Depending on the state you buy your RV in, you’re also obliged to pay a sales tax.

Of all the states, Tennessee has the highest sales tax at 9.45 percent.

This will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the starting price of the RV (something to consider if you’re on a budget).

Off-Season Storage

There comes a time, for almost every RV enthusiast, to hang up the keys and leave the RV for a month or two. This is mostly in states where the weather simply doesn’t allow for winter use.

Off-season storage is another expense worth including in your budget. Not all storage facilities offer spaces large enough to accommodate a class A recreational vehicle.

That said, those that do offer places for these RVs will also ensure that yours is safe from the harsh elements.

Conclusion

Handgiving Keys

Class A RVs are some of the largest and most luxurious motorhomes you can get your hands on.

They really are a home away from home. Most are decked out in deluxe features and modern designs. No wonder they’re the first choice for many full-time RVers.

Nevertheless, they also come with a hefty price tag. Their starting price is anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000.

But the sky seems to be the limit here, seeing that some of these RVs easily cross the $1,000,000 mark.

Fortunately, you can get an excellent model for less if you’re willing to buy a used one.

If you’ve read this guide and realized that even used class A RVs may break the bank, I advise you to consider deciding on a nice travel trailer. Two of my personal favorite travel trailer brands are Heartland and Airstream. You can find both brand new and second-hand models. 

Did any of the above-mentioned RV costs surprise you?

What’s your RV-buying experience?

Please let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow enthusiasts and anyone else interested in the RV lifestyle.

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1 thought on “How Much Does A Class A RV Cost? Average Prices For New And Used Models”

  1. We have a 2014 Newmar King Aire that experienced some problems earlier on. After embracing the problems, solving the problems and learning how to identify the onset of potential future problems, we’re having the best times of our lives.

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