The Reality of the $20K Used Pickup Market
Once upon a time, finding a dependable used pickup truck for $20,000 was entirely feasible. Today, however, that budget may only land you a high-mileage vehicle, if at all. With used car prices skyrocketing, finding a well-maintained truck for this price is increasingly rare, especially given that the Nissan Frontier is one of the few exceptions still averaging under $25,000.
Rising Prices and Mileage Challenges
The days of affordable used cars are largely gone, with only 12.4% of vehicles now listed for $20,000 or less, down from nearly half pre-pandemic. The increase in vehicle mileage is another concern, with recent data showing that cars aged 1-5 years have roughly 20% more miles than three years ago. This shift is driven by a shortage of new cars, causing many drivers to keep their old ones longer.
Affordable Pickup Truck Options
If you’re set on finding a used pickup truck for $20,000, your choices will be limited and may require compromise. The Nissan Frontier is a standout option in the under-$25,000 range, with 2017 models averaging around $21,671. For a bit more, you might explore midsize trucks like the Honda Ridgeline or Chevrolet Colorado, or full-size options such as the Ram 1500 Classic, though these often come with higher mileage or fewer features at this price point.
Making the Most of Your Budget
Finding a reliable truck under $20,000 will depend on patience and a bit of luck. Midsize trucks are more attainable at this price, while full-size models may be older or require some repair work. If you’re willing to consider trucks with salvage titles or higher mileage, there might be options that fit within your budget, but be prepared for potential maintenance challenges.