Buyers typically pay a wide range for skid steers, driven by new versus used condition, horsepower, attachment needs, and rental or purchase terms. This guide covers price expectations, with explicit cost ranges and the main drivers behind every value.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New skid steer price | $28,000 | $50,000 | $90,000 | Tier 4/Stage V models; 60–100 hp; basic to premium features |
| Used skid steer price | $14,000 | $30,000 | $60,000 | Higher for low hours, well-maintained machines |
| Rental (hourly) | $60 | $95 | $150 | Self-drive or with operator; includes basic attachment |
| Delivery/Setup | $150 | $350 | $1,000 | Distance and site access impact |
| Maintenance, warranty, and servicing | $0 (used) | $5,000 | $12,000 | New machines include longer warranty; used may require service |
| Attachments (common) | $500 | $2,500 | $10,000 | Buckets, grapples, trenchers, augers |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges reflect common configurations and market segments in the United States. For a typical skid steer, expect total project costs to range from about $14,000 to $90,000 when purchasing, or $60 to $150 per hour when renting, depending on hours, operator needs, and attachments. Price variations stem from horsepower, travel speed, attachment compatibility, and whether the unit is new or used.
Assumptions for totals: 60–100 hp models; standard bucket; regional taxes; basic maintenance included with new purchases; rental includes standard utility and basic attachment.
Cost Breakdown
The following table outlines core cost components for a skid steer purchase or rental. It highlights how materials, labor, and other factors contribute to the bottom line.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase price (new) | $28,000 | $50,000 | $90,000 | 60–100 hp, basic to premium features |
| Purchase price (used) | $14,000 | $30,000 | $60,000 | Lower hours increase value |
| Attachment costs | $500 | $2,500 | $10,000 | Buckets, grapples, augers, etc. |
| Delivery/transport | $150 | $350 | $1,000 | Distance and site access drive price |
| Labor (if owned, maintenance) | $0 | $2,000 | $5,000 | Regular service costs over ownership |
| Maintenance & warranty | $0 | $2,000 | $7,000 | New units include warranty; used varies |
| Taxes & fees | $0 | $4,000 | $9,000 | Depends on state and local rules |
What Drives Price
Key price drivers include horsepower and breakout force, operating weight, and travel speed. Hydraulic flow for implement versatility (measured in gpm) and sensor packages can push price up. A bigger factor is whether the unit is new or used, and how much warranty coverage is included. Regional demand, availability of dealers, and freight costs also shift pricing.
Ways To Save
Smart buyers can reduce cost with strategies that align with project scope. Shop for a reserved or certified pre-owned skid steer with documented maintenance, compare in-house delivery options, and time purchases to off-peak seasons when dealers offer promotions. Consider negotiating on attachments bundled with the unit to lock in a lower combined price.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by market, but three broad patterns show typical deltas. In urban markets, higher demand and service availability push up both purchase and rental rates by approximately 5–15% compared to suburban areas. Rural regions often have lower freight and setup charges but fewer nearby dealers, leading to a -5% to +5% spread depending on access and condition prior to sale. Midwestern markets generally sit near national averages with modest variability around 0–8%.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor costs can appear in two forms: operator charges for rental and service labor for maintenance or installation. For rentals, operator rates are commonly $40–$75 per hour in addition to the base rental. For installation tasks such as mounting a grapple or trenching attachment, expect 2–6 hours of labor on typical jobs, with hourly rates of $60–$110. Assume transport time, setup, and familiarization are included in initial charges.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical pricing outcomes. Assumptions: region:Midwest, 70–90 hp model, standard attachments, no extensive customization.
- Basic Purchase — 70 hp, simple bucket, no add-ons; used with ~2,000 hours; total: $18,000-$29,000 (used), per-hour equivalent ownership costs around $0.50-$1.50/hour amortized over 5 years.
- Mid-Range Purchase — 85 hp with standard bucket and a grapple; new unit with 1-year warranty; total: $40,000-$60,000, plus $8,000-$12,000 for attachments; tax and delivery push near $50,000-$75,000.
- Premium Purchase or Heavy Use — 100 hp, advanced hydraulics and Seasoned attachment suite; total: $75,000-$110,000, with extended warranty and optional service package; attachments may add $5,000-$15,000.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Long-term ownership adds ongoing costs beyond the purchase price. Routine maintenance, hydraulic fluid, filter replacements, and scheduled servicing can total $1,000-$3,000 per year for a typical mid-range model. If a machine sits idle for extended periods, tires, battery, and seals may require sooner attention, potentially increasing annual upkeep to the mid-range of this band. Assumptions: 60–90 hp, average workload, standard maintenance plan.
Additionally, consider depreciation and insurance when evaluating total cost of ownership. Depreciation for a skid steer often runs in the 15–25% range per year on new purchases in the early years, tapering with age and usage. Insurance premiums vary by operator history, usage, and location, but typically run a few hundred dollars annually for a small fleet or a single unit. Both factors influence the long-term price reality for buyers.
