The cheapest tractor to buy is a subcompact or a compact tractor. Brand new, they can range between $1500 and $2500. However, if you need a larger tractor for industrial-sized farming operations, then expect to pay $20,000 up to $100,000 or more for a tractor.
But this will depend on what you’re looking for, what brand you get and the features that come with it. In regards to used models, you will pay considerably less, but this will impinge on the required repairs and replacements.
Which Compact Tractor Is Least Expensive Brand New?
The least expensive compact tractor available on the market, brand new, is the 2019 Kubota BX80 1880. Depending on where you buy it, it costs around $9,800 to $10,000. It comes with a16.6 horsepower engine that’s hydrostatic. But, if you get additional items attached, it can clear $15,000 easy.
However, there are several brands that offer a tractor in the $15,000 range and this is the most common price. John Deere, Kioti and Yanmar are just a few of these in this price range that offer the best quality.
Which Mid or Full-Sized Tractor Is Least Expensive Brand New?
Mid to full-sized tractor prices will depend on how many horsepower (HP) the machine comes with. Therefore, 50 to 75 HP will be infinitely cheaper than ones with 100 HP. Unfortunately, pricing for specific models is a little elusive because of how expensive brand new tractors can be.
That said, you can find a John Deere with 83 HP for $30,000 or a 500 HP Challenger model for $210,000. These are some of the cheapest prices for mid to full-sized tractors. They’re often much more expensive, ranging at an average minimum of $45,000 to as much as $300,000.
Which Other Brand New Compact Tractors are Cheap to Buy?
There are a host of compact tractors on the market that are fairly affordable. While the following list isn’t entirely comprehensive, these are the most competitive available:
- John Deere 1025R (around $14,000)
- Mahindra eMax 20S HST (around $14,900)
- Yanmar SA221 (around $15,000)
- Kioti CK2510 (around $15,500)
- Massey Ferguson GC1700 (around $16,000)
- Steiner 450DX (around $19,000)
- LS Tractor MT225E (around $19,000)
What Do You Look for in a Used Tractor to Ensure It’s the Cheapest?
Used tractors can offer a cheaper way to acquire a tractor. But, they will come with their own issues. If you’re looking to get an inexpensive used tractor, there are several things you need to keep in mind:
- Determine Purpose: Define for yourself in definite terms what you need to use a tractor for. Are you mowing grass, moving dirt, plowing snow, tilling the garden or a combination of these? This will determine the attachments you’ll need and other features you should have.
- Safety Features and Attachments: Many used tractors will have PTO or ROPS shields removed along with other features such as front-end loaders. You will have to replace these and it will affect the overall cost of the tractor.
- Repairs: If the tractor needs a lot of repairs, these are going to increase the cost of the equipment. In the case you aren’t the mechanical type, you will have to pay for these repairs from a qualified mechanic.
- Be Pragmatic: Because you’re getting a used tractor, it’s not going to be in tip top shape unless you’re lucky enough to find a good deal on a slightly used model. Therefore, be ready to make some compromises.
- Be Aware of Scams: As the old adage goes, if it’s too good to be true, it most likely is. Scams can happen online, in a newspaper or at a store. Whoever is selling the tractor, they should let you test run it before you buy it.
- Take Your Time: Because this is going to be an investment, take your time in making a final decision. Compare several models, consider what your needs are and what will be best for the least amount of money.
What Kind of Used Tractor Can You Find with a $5,000 Budget?
With a budget of $5,000 understand that the kind of tractor you’ll find will have quite a bit of wear and tear on it. This also means that repairs will be necessary for the machine. So, while you may only spend $5,000, you will spend significantly more for replacements, repairs and etc.
In the event you find that these fix ups will total more than $10,000, consider upping your budget. This way, you may save some money on overall repairs while getting a better quality tractor. But even here, it’s important to understand these are not hard and fast rules, it all depends on the tractor in question.
So, ensure you get a brand that you trust. This will help in acquiring parts and finding people who can repair it in the case you aren’t able to. Make sure you are aware of anything and everything faulty with the machine.
Where Are the Best Places to find the Cheapest Tractor to Buy?
Whether you want a new or used tractor, there are several places to find a good deal. EBay is always worth checking around on. Because stock changes all the time, you can set up notifications when someone posts a tractor for sale.
Other places are looking through your local newspaper, seeing what’s available on Craigslist or visiting TractorHouse’s website. You could also talk to some farmers in your local area, they may either be in the market to sell an old one or know someone who’s looking to sell a used tractor.
Can You Get Funding for a New Tractor?
If money is a little tight, there are a couple of programs available for farmers who need some help getting a tractor. The National Agricultural Library’s Rural Information Center at the USDA has two programs. One is for small farming operations for US military vets. The other gives all other farmers the chance to apply for grants or loans to get equipment.
