“Is now a good time to buy an RV?” That’s a question many shoppers are pondering as the weather gets nicer. The answer depends on many variables, but one that factors into every transaction? Price.
“With spring right around the corner, we expect RV values to stabilize and perhaps even increase as dealers begin to purchase used units to ensure their lots are fully stocked,” noted Eric Lawrence, principal automotive analyst, specialty vehicles at Black Book.
Auction sales show towables and motorhomes on different trajectories
In January, the average price of towable RVs (such as travel trailers, fifth wheels) sold at auction fell to $15,915, down $1,168 (or 6.8%) compared to December. According to market commentary published by vehicle price analysis firm Black Book, this was the third consecutive month of this downward trend. That being said, the total number of towables sold actually increased by 6.2%.
Motorhomes, on the other hand, saw the opposite pattern. The average selling price of motorhomes at auction was $63,346, up $2,739 (4.5%) from December; but the total number sold decreased by 1.7%.
In short, auctions are seeing more towables sold at lower prices, and fewer motorhomes sold at higher prices. Looking at figures from twelve months ago, motorhomes sold for $53,551 on average, while towables went for around $18,329 – suggesting that the price trends seen in January are nothing new.
While current auction prices and volumes paint a mixed picture, the RV industry shipped more units overall this January, again with towables making the biggest strides, according to the RV Industry Association (RVIA). With shipments on the rise, dealer inventory should also be more robust, with towable RVs in the lead as usual – good news for RV shoppers who are looking for a deal.
“January’s shipment numbers reflect the continued, steady growth we anticipated for the RV industry as we begin 2025. While we remain cautiously optimistic, these early indicators are encouraging and suggest the enduring appeal of the RV lifestyle,” said RV Industry Association President and CEO, Craig Kirby.
Emissions legislation throws a wrench in the works
While the RV marketplace shows a promising start to the year, RV shoppers should be aware of regulatory restrictions that could impact motorhome availability in some states. Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulation requires that, by 2035, all new vehicles over 8,500 pounds (effectively all motorized RVs) produce zero emissions. Despite technical advances in the transport sector, no current motorhome powertrain is compliant with the regulation, which has been adopted by California and ten other states; additionally, no current zero-emissions chassis is rated for use with motorhomes.
While the ACT is meant to phase in over the next ten years, an amendment adopted in October 2024 prevents non-compliant new RVs from being registered in California, starting with units of the 2025 model year – other participating states will likely impose the same restriction in the near future.
As of writing, only 7–11% of vehicle sales must be of zero-emissions vehicles; however, since motorhomes are manufactured on commercial chassis and represent a relatively small portion of a chassis manufacturer’s sales, builders of these chassis may prioritize other markets. Also because of their relatively small market share, there’s no guarantee that an amendment will be introduced to carve out an exclusion in the ACT for motorhomes.
As a result of this uncertainty, two dealers who spoke with RV Trader indicated that they were not planning on placing orders for motorized RVs until there is further guidance and a clear path forward.
A market in flux – but still growing
So, is now a good time to go RV shopping? Yes, especially if you’re looking for a towable RV, as you can take advantage of lower prices and greater inventory. If you’re considering a motorhome, shop with an eye to the future – with prices climbing and regulatory pressure mounting, now may be the best time to pull the trigger. Whichever class of RV you’re shopping for, fear not: given the growth in new RV shipments and healthy inventory of used models, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your next adventure.