The Rising Cost of Car Ownership — and How to Save in 2025

Owning a car in 2025 is more expensive than ever—and consumers are feeling it. Whether you're in the market for a new ride or trying to hang on to your current one, it's impossible to ignore the sharp rise in costs across the board: car prices, financing, insurance, maintenance—you name it.

But the good news? There are still smart ways to save—and tools like AutoFinder.com can help you find a vehicle and a deal that fits your budget.

Here’s what consumers are up against in today’s market:

The average APR for a new car loan is hovering between 7% and 9% in 2025—up from pre-pandemic lows of around 4%. For used cars, it's often even higher. That means bigger monthly payments and more paid in interest over the life of your loan.

Tip: Use AutoFinder to compare pricing across thousands of listings. The more you save on the car itself, the less you’ll need to borrow.

Auto insurance rates have jumped an average of 22% this year, with some states seeing increases of over 30%. Factors include rising repair costs, more accidents, and advanced vehicle tech that’s pricey to replace.

Tip: Consider switching to a less expensive-to-insure model or trim level. AutoFinder lets you filter by budget, size, and features so you can compare smarter.

Although prices have cooled slightly from the 2021–2023 peak, the average new car is still over $47,000, and used cars average $27,000+ in many markets. Inventory is improving, but dealer markups haven’t disappeared.

Tip: Shop certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles for peace of mind and a lower price tag. AutoFinder connects you with local dealers offering CPO options with warranties and financing flexibility.

AutoFinder.com is designed for today's buyer—especially those trying to make a smart decision in a high-cost environment. Here's what sets it apart:

Start your search today at AutoFinder.com. No pressure, just smarter shopping.

Car ownership might cost more in 2025—but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay.

Whether you're trading in your current vehicle, buying your first, or simply trying to stay informed, tools like AutoFinder.com make it easier than ever to shop smart and compare confidently.