Used U.S. EV Prices Increasing in 2026, an Unusual Dynamic, According to Experts

Used electric vehicles are doing something few industry observers expected: they’re becoming more valuable, as gas prices in the United States continue to skyrocket due to the Iran war.

Traditionally, vehicles lose value over time, with depreciation beginning the moment a new car leaves the dealership lot. EVs have historically depreciated even faster than gasoline-powered vehicles, often suffering from weak resale values. In 2026, however, that trend has reversed.

According to a recent analysis by Recurrent, used EV prices increased 5.1% between January and June 2026 and were up 7% year-to-date through mid-July. Edmunds reported a similar trend, finding that the average transaction price for three-year-old EVs rose 6% during the first half of the year, climbing from $31,429 to $33,303.

The price increases are notable because they are occurring despite a growing supply of used EVs entering the market. More than 500,000 leased EVs are expected to return to the used vehicle market this year, a level of inventory that would normally place downward pressure on prices. Instead, strong consumer demand is more than offsetting the increased supply.

Several factors are driving this demand. Rising gasoline prices have pushed more consumers toward fuel-efficient transportation options, while persistent inflation has increased interest in affordable used vehicles. Many shoppers are discovering that a three-year-old EV can often be purchased for a price comparable to an older gasoline vehicle while offering newer technology, lower mileage, and reduced operating costs.

But not only gas prices are high, nearly all prices are up.

AP reported excluding volatile food and energy prices, core consumer prices were up 3.3% from a year earlier, little-changed from 3.4% increase in May.

The strongest price growth has occurred among lower-priced EVs. Recurrent found that used EVs priced below $20,000 increased in value by 9.4% during the first half of 2026, reflecting growing demand from budget-conscious buyers. Meanwhile, higher-priced used EVs above $40,000 experienced modest price declines.

The trend is good news for current EV owners considering selling their vehicles, as resale values are improving. For buyers, however, rising prices could reduce affordability. Still, industry analysts note that used EVs remain attractive because of lower fuel and maintenance costs compared with many gasoline-powered vehicles.

The surprising rise in used EV values demonstrates that consumer demand for electric transportation remains strong. Even as federal incentives have disappeared and more vehicles enter the used market, affordability, fuel savings, and expanding model choices continue to attract buyers to electric vehicles.

EVinfo.net’s Take: Never a Better Time to Go Electric

One of the biggest advantages to used EVs is affordability. A three-year-old EV often costs thousands less than its new counterpart while still offering modern safety features, advanced driver assistance systems, over-the-air software updates, and substantial battery life remaining. Many used EVs also come with battery warranties that continue for years after purchase.

Lectrium: EV/Hybrid Sales Tools for Dealerships and OEMs

Consumer confidence in used EVs is also improving thanks to companies like Lectrium. Founded in 2021, the company helps dealerships better educate shoppers about EVs and hybrids by providing vehicle-specific information on charging, range, incentives, battery health, and ownership costs. By making EV data easier to understand, Lectrium helps remove uncertainty that has traditionally discouraged some used EV buyers.