We all know by now that the average price of a new car in the United States has surpassed $50,000. We all know this because it’s horrible.
However, used car lots know this as well. And that isn’t good, because it means they know you are looking for a used car, hoping for a good deal. That means they can charge more money. I mean, hey, if it’s still cheaper than a new car, people may buy it even at a higher price point.
What’s the new average of a used car? In September 2026, it became $27,235, according to Kelley Blue Book. This is the highest average price of a new car since 2022.
Is it a good time to get a used car?
Okay, don’t panic buy a used car just yet. There’s a chance they won’t really increase in price any time soon.
According to Kelley Blue Book, dealerships ended September with a pretty large supply of used cars. Since supply and demand are a big part of pricing, the average price of a used car could remain pretty stable for the time being.
It should be noted, however, that there’s only a 49-day supply, which is basically a month and a half. Could things go crazy after that? Possibly. Could they continue to stabilize? Possibly. If you want to guarantee a car at this price before taking that risk, you’d need to buy a used car before 2026 ends.
Just don’t expect many good deals. Dealers have only a 34-day supply of used cars listed for $15,000 or less. If you’re fine getting a used car that’s more around $20,000 to $30,000, you may want to make a move before 2027.
What used cars are under $15,000?
In reality, it largely depends on where you live, what condition you’re willing to put up with, the mileage, and many other factors. But there are some used cars priced below $15,000 that are worth checking out.
If you’re looking for a commuter car, you can find Honda Accords, Toyota Corollas, and Honda Civics from the 2010’s. These are not the most glamorous cars, but they are dependable and reliable, and it doesn’t matter if they have more than 200,000 miles on the odometer. They are generally comfortable and fuel-efficient, making up for their bland-ish appearance.
If you prefer an SUV, you can get a 2016-ish Honda CR-V, one of the most popular (and dull) vehicles on the road today. A 2021 Kia Soul is way more fun option, with a uniquely boxy body and plenty of modern creature comforts inside.
Want a project car? Any Mazda Miata MX-5 (NA, NB, or NC) is a super-affordable purchase with crazy fun performance. It’s lightweight, cute, and has a go-kart-like driving style that will make you smile the entire drive. Another JDM project car could be a Datsun S30, which has great vintage styling. Just be on the lookout for rusting.
You could also pick up a BMW E36 or Volkswagen Golf GTI if you want a fun European project car. These could be made into super fun track weapons with the right mods, but they can even remain as is for a good time. The E36 has great styling, and the GTI has a punchy turbo.
A 2000s Ford Mustang could be another good project car. A V8 under $15,000? Worth. Speaking of, the Chevrolet Corvette from the C4 or C5 generation has track-ready performance.
