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How Much Does an Excavator Cost? (2026 Price Breakdown)
Excavator pricing spans an enormous range because "excavator" covers everything from a 20-ton production machine to a well-worn used unit an owner-operator buys to land a first contract. The number that matters is the one for the size class and condition you actually need — so this guide breaks it down by tier rather than quoting a single misleading average.
The good news for buyers: excavators are strong, liquid collateral with a deep resale market, which is why most are financed rather than bought outright. Know the price bands below, then match the machine to the work you have booked.
What an excavator costs: full breakdown
| Configuration | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Used mid-size (5–10 yrs, 13–20 ton) | $40,000 – $90,000 | Hours and undercarriage condition drive value more than age |
| Late-model used (2–5 yrs) | $90,000 – $150,000 | Lower hours, modern emissions — the easiest tier to finance |
| New 20-ton class | $150,000 – $250,000 | The general-purpose production workhorse |
| New large (30–50 ton) | $250,000 – $350,000+ | Mass excavation, quarry, and heavy site work |
| Attachments (thumb, breaker, bucket set) | $3,000 – $40,000 | A hydraulic breaker alone can add $10,000–$25,000 |
What drives the price
- Size class (operating weight) is the single biggest price factor — each jump up in ton class steps the price up sharply.
- Hours and undercarriage condition set used values; a machine with a worn undercarriage can need $15,000–$40,000 in track/roller work.
- Emissions tier: newer Tier 4 Final machines cost more up front but finance on longer terms and resell better.
- Attachments and couplers — a hydraulic thumb, breaker, or grading bucket can add tens of thousands to the out-the-door price.
- Brand and dealer support: Cat, Deere, Komatsu, and Volvo hold value; support in your region matters for uptime.
Financing an excavator?
Most buyers finance rather than pay cash — the equipment is collateral, which keeps rates lower than unsecured borrowing. The highest-leverage move is comparing at least two offers: a dealer or manufacturer quote against an independent lender.
See our full excavator financing guide for real rates, terms, a payment calculator, and what lenders look for.
Get matched with equipment lenders →Frequently asked questions
How much does a used excavator cost?
A used mid-size excavator (13–20 ton, 5–10 years old) typically runs $40,000–$90,000 depending on hours and undercarriage condition. Late-model used machines (2–5 years) run $90,000–$150,000. Always factor an inspection — undercarriage wear is the expensive hidden cost.
How much is a new excavator?
A new 20-ton-class excavator generally runs $150,000–$250,000, and larger 30-to-50-ton machines $250,000–$350,000+. Attachments and dealer options add to that.
Is it better to buy new or used?
Used dealer-sold machines at 40–60% of new cost finance almost as well and let your capital buy more capability, as long as the undercarriage and hours check out. New wins on warranty, delivery certainty, and the lowest financing rates.
Prices are typical market ranges, not quotes, and vary by region, condition, and configuration. Browse all equipment cost guides or find your machine's financing guide.