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  • RV Pricing Trends from 2024 – Will the Shift Continue in 2025?

    RV Pricing Trends from 2024 – Will the Shift Continue in 2025?

    Looking back at 2024, RV buyers showed clear preferences when it came to pricing. Lower-cost models surged in popularity, high-end RVs held steady, and mid-range models struggled. This pricing trend left a noticeable gap in the market, raising the question: Will this shift away from the mid-range continue in 2025, or will changing economic conditions push the industry in a new direction?

    For sellers and buyers alike, understanding these trends can provide key insights into what to expect in the months ahead. Here’s what the data from 2024 reveals and what it could mean moving forward.

    High-End RVs Held Their Ground

    While lower-priced RVs saw the most growth, high-end models around $100,000 saw a modest 5.30% increase in sales.

    The big question for 2025 is whether changes in consumer confidence will slow this trend, or if advancements in RV equipment and design will drive even more growth in the luxury segment. With manufacturers continuing to introduce high-tech, amenity-packed models, and financing options evolving, high-end buyers may be even more willing to invest in premium RVs. If the market remains favorable for wealthier consumers, we could see the luxury category continue to expand while mid-range demand remains uncertain.

    The Mid-Range Market Struggled

    While entry-level and high-end models performed well in 2024, mid-priced RVs faced a downturn, with the following price ranges seeing a decline from 2023:

    • $30,001–$35,000: down 22.19%
    • $40,001–$45,000: down 15.90%
    • $50,001–$55,000: down 16.75%
    • $55,001–$60,000: down 21.28%

    This trend suggests that many mid-range buyers either opted for lower-priced models to save money or stretched their budgets for a high-end purchase. Financing challenges may have also played a role, as rising interest rates made mid-priced models less attractive compared to budget-friendly or uncompromising luxury options.

    Going into 2025, this segment may face continued pressure unless economic conditions shift. If financing rates ease or manufacturers introduce new models with enhanced value at these price points, we could see a rebound in demand.

    Will 2025 Bring a Shift?

    While 2024 clearly favored RVs at either end of the price spectrum, the question remains: Will 2025 continue this trend, or will mid-range sales make a comeback?

    A few factors could influence this:

    • Interest rates and financing options: If financing becomes more accessible, more buyers could re-enter the mid-range market.
    • Inflation and fuel costs: Economic factors may continue pushing buyers toward affordable options.
    • RV lifestyle trends: The demand for compact and lightweight travel may keep budget-friendly models in high demand.

    As the market adjusts, sellers should stay informed and be ready to adapt. Whether demand stays steady or shifts in a new direction, now remains a strong time to sell before more inventory enters the market.

    Thinking of Selling? Now’s the Time

    If you own an RV in a high-demand price range, listing sooner rather than later could help you secure a sale while demand remains strong. Even for mid-range RVs, the right pricing and listing strategy can make all the difference in attracting buyers.

  • Is It the Right Time to Buy an RV? The Numbers Are In

    Is It the Right Time to Buy an RV? The Numbers Are In

    “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.