RV Living Cost Calculator

Full-time RV living costs vary enormously by lifestyle. Budget travelers using free camping (BLM land, Harvest Hosts, boondocking) and cooking at home can live on $2,000-3,000 per month. Mid-range travelers in private campgrounds with occasional restaurant meals average $3,500-5,000 per month. Resort RV park travelers with all amenities and frequent dining out can spend $5,000-8,000+ per month. The biggest variables are campground fees, fuel, and how often you move.

Class B camper vans (converted cargo vans) have the lowest purchase price ($60,000-150,000 new) and lowest fuel costs due to better MPG (20-25 MPG). Class C motorhomes are a mid-range option ($90,000-200,000 new, 10-18 MPG). Class A diesel pushers have the highest purchase price ($200,000-500,000+) but can be very comfortable and hold resale value. Fifth wheels and travel trailers pulled by pickup trucks are popular for full-timers who want a truck for local transportation when parked.

For full-time RVers who move frequently: fuel is the largest expense ($400-1,500+ per month depending on distance traveled and rig MPG). Campground fees are next ($600-1,500 per month for private campgrounds, less for state parks and free camping). RV loan payment (if financed), insurance, and maintenance round out the major fixed costs. For stationary long-term RVers, campground/lot rent replaces fuel as the major variable cost.

Yes. Full-time RVers must have a state domicile (legal home state) even without a fixed address. The most popular RV domicile states are South Dakota (no state income tax, easy registration, mail forwarding services), Texas (no state income tax, easy registration), and Florida (no state income tax). Establishing domicile requires a valid mailing address (mail forwarding service), state ID or driver's license, and vehicle registration in the chosen state. Consult a tax professional familiar with RV domicile issues.

It depends heavily on your housing cost and RV lifestyle. In high cost-of-living cities (NYC, SF, LA), renting a one-bedroom apartment for $2,500-4,000 per month can be more expensive than full-time RV living at $3,000-4,000 per month, especially since RV living may include campground amenities. However, in mid-cost cities where rent is $1,200-2,000, full-time RVing with a new rig is often more expensive when the loan payment is factored in. The financial case for RVing is strongest when the RV is paid off.