Average Used Car Prices Hold at $27,235
Buyers of pre-owned vehicles face a 49-day market supply, with lower-priced models remaining particularly difficult to find.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Buying/Selling
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In September 2026, the average list price for a used vehicle in the United States reached $27,235. Dealers ended the month with an average 49-day supply of used inventory, suggesting that price inflation could remain steady through the autumn.
Why it matters
Higher supply levels across the used car market are helping to moderate price growth for households. As manufacturers produce fewer affordable new vehicles, understanding the current price and inventory landscape helps buyers time their purchases effectively.
Used vehicle listing prices hit $27,235 in September 2026, supported by an industry-wide 49-day supply of inventory. Models priced under $15,000 remain scarce, with only a 34-day supply available for shoppers.
The players
Ford
A major automotive manufacturer whose vehicles are among the most frequently sold in the pre-owned market.
Chevrolet
A prominent vehicle brand that contributes significantly to the national volume of used retail sales.
Toyota
A global automaker recognized for high resale values and a large presence in the pre-owned vehicle segment.
Honda
A key manufacturer in the used vehicle market, frequently cited in retail sales data for reliable pre-owned inventory.
Nissan
A major automotive brand whose models represent a substantial share of national retail used-vehicle sales.
The details
The used vehicle market is currently influenced by automakers producing fewer entry-level new cars, which maintains demand for pre-owned inventory. Top brands including Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan collectively accounted for over 49% of all retail used-vehicle sales. While certified pre-owned sales saw a 10% year-over-year increase, they experienced a 6% decrease month-over-month.
Timeline
• In September 2026, the average used car list price reached $27,235.
The Home Front
Current inventory levels reflect the long-term industry shift toward limited production of entry-level new vehicles. This trend continues to place upward pressure on the prices of older, more budget-friendly pre-owned models.
If you are looking for a vehicle under $15,000, be prepared for limited inventory and higher competition for available stock. Prioritize checking vehicle history reports and setting up alerts for specific models to navigate the current 49-day supply environment.
The takeaway
Used vehicle pricing remains stable, but the scarcity of inventory under $15,000 is a persistent reality for household budgets. Shoppers should prioritize long-term reliability and total cost of ownership when evaluating available options in this price-conscious climate.
Further reading
For more tips on finding the right vehicle for your budget, see Buying/Selling.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kbb.
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