Heading to college starts with planning which courses to take – and which car to buy or rent. You might wonder which option will save you the most on gas so you don’t have to ask your parents for money, or which car can reliably take you thousands of miles if you're moving from a neighboring state.
Whether you’re a domestic or international student, finding the best car can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Don’t worry. This guide will help you choose the best option for your budget, needs, and preferences.
Why Buying a Used Car in College Makes Sense
Let’s be honest, only a few cities across the country offer convenient public transportation. Unless you live in places like New York, Boston, or Chicago, getting around can be tough without a car. While services like Uber and Lyft exist, they can become expensive and impractical for frequent tasks like errands, appointments, or general travel.
Budget-Friendly and Practical
Buying a used car is a smart long-term investment. It’s easier on your wallet than purchasing a new car, and it’s more practical - no need to constantly pay for public transportation or Uber. Luckily, many of the best cars for college students fall into the used cars under $15,000 range.
Flexibility and Independence on Campus
Relying on friends for rides isn’t always convenient. You may need to be early, or stay late - for a class or event - and your friends may be busy or simply not feel like driving. Owning a car gives you the flexibility and independence to come and go as you please.
Lower Depreciation Compared to New Cars
Used cars depreciate more slowly because they’ve already gone through the steepest drop in value, usually within the first year, when new vehicles can lose 20–30% of their worth.
When you buy a used car that’s three to five years old, most of the major depreciation has already occurred. From that point, its value tends to decline more gradually, influenced by factors like mileage, condition, and market demand. This makes used cars a financially sound choice for many college students, and buying a low-maintenance vehicle that’s three to five years old is often the best value.
Set Your Budget First
Before dreaming about your ideal college car, get real about your budget. Setting a clear budget will help you narrow your options and avoid unnecessary financial stress while managing school and maybe a part-time job.
Understand Your Total Car Budget (Not Just Sticker Price)
The sticker price is just the beginning. You need to consider the full cost of owning and operating a car:
- Consider your income: Factor in any part-time job earnings or parental support.
- Set a price range: Choose cars within your financial limits.
- Include all costs: Don’t forget insurance, gas, maintenance, and registration fees.
It’s also smart to consider long-term savings. Fuel-efficient cars can significantly reduce monthly gas expenses.
Financing Options for Students
Most students don’t have thousands of dollars saved up, so financing might be necessary. Here’s what you can do:
- Get student auto loans: Some lenders offer student loans, but watch out for high interest rates.
- Find co-signers: Having a parent or guardian with good credit can help you get better rates.
- Check credit unions: These often provide more favorable terms than traditional banks.
- Save for a down payment: Even a small one can lower your loan and interest.
If you’re an international student in the U.S., financing may be trickier, but not impossible. Here are some options to explore:
- Specialty lenders: Companies like Stilt offer low-cost loans for international students and immigrants, with no SSN required. SoFi also claims to cover up to 100% of school-certified costs, including transportation.
- University credit unions: Some offer flexible auto loans for students with valid visas and ITINs, often with better terms than traditional banks.
- Traditional lenders: Financing is possible with a co-signer, down payment, and proof of income. Having an SSN or job offer can improve your chances.
- Buy Here, Pay Here dealerships: These offer easier approval but may come with high interest rates, strict payment terms, and limited inventory. Always read the terms carefully.
Planning for Additional Costs: Insurance, Registration, Taxes
As mentioned earlier, buying a car isn’t just about the sticker price. There are additional costs and hidden fees that can add up quickly. These include:
- Car Insurance for college students: Major insurance companies may offer discounts to students who maintain good GPAs, often called “good student discounts.” Check out companies like Geico (up to 15% off), State Farm (up to 25% off), and Nationwide (up to 20% off).
- Registration Fees: These vary by state, usually ranging from $50 to $200 per year.
- Sales Tax: This depends on your state’s tax rate and the price of the car.
- Maintenance: Be prepared for regular costs like oil changes, tire replacements, and unexpected repairs.
- Car warranty for college students: Consider buying an extended warranty to cover costly repairs. Some third parties offer student-friendly plans.
Best Cars for College Students
Honda Civic
- Reliable and long-lasting: Usually lasts over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.
- Fuel-efficient: Up to 42 MPG highway, saving on gas for campus commutes.
- Affordable maintenance: Parts are cheap, and mechanics are familiar with Civics.
- Used market availability: Plenty of options, with prices often under $15,000 for recent models.
Toyota Corolla
- Top safety ratings: Standard safety features like lane assist and adaptive cruise control.
- Low ownership costs: Minimal repairs and high reliability reduce expenses.
- Strong resale value: Holds value well, perfect for selling after graduation.
- Insurance savings: A reliable reputation often leads to lower premiums.
Mazda3
- Fun to drive: Sporty handling and sleek design appeal to young drivers.
- High safety scores: Advanced safety tech in newer models, great for new drivers.
- Budget-friendly deals: Less popular than Civic or Corolla, so used prices are competitive.
- Premium interior: Feels upscale without a high price tag.
Hyundai Elantra
- Low upfront cost: Often cheaper than competitors, with used models under $12,000.
- Tech-loaded: Recent models offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and touchscreens.
- Solid warranty: Newer used models include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.
- Good fuel economy: Around 33–41 MPG, ideal for student budgets.
Kia Forte
- Affordable pricing: Used models often start below $10,000, perfect for tight budgets.
- Student-friendly tech: Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and USB ports for connectivity.
- Low running costs: Up to 41 MPG and inexpensive maintenance keep expenses down.
- Reliable choice: Shares platforms with Hyundai, ensuring durability.
Subaru Impreza
- All-wheel drive: Standard AWD is great for students in snowy or rainy regions.
- Practical hatchback: Offers extra cargo space for dorm moves or road trips.
- Dependable: Known for longevity, reducing repair costs over time.
- Moderate fuel economy: Around 28–36 MPG, decent for an AWD vehicle.
Ford Focus
- Cheap and widely available: One of the most affordable cars for college students, often under $8,000.
- Fuel-efficient: Delivers 30–40 MPG, great for frequent campus drives.
- Compact size: Easy to park in tight dorm or city lots.
- Low repair costs: Parts are affordable, and mechanics know the car well.
Toyota Prius
- Exceptional fuel savings: 50+ MPG, cutting gas costs for long commutes.
- Hybrid reliability: Proven track record with durable batteries and low maintenance.
- Spacious interior: Roomy enough for group trips or moving dorm gear.
- Eco appeal: One of the best cars for college students seeking an environmentally conscious option.
Honda HR-V
- Versatile compact SUV: Combines city-friendly size with the utility needed for rural or off-campus driving.
- All-wheel drive option: Great for students in areas with rough terrain or snow.
- Flexible cargo space: Perfect for hauling sports gear, groceries, or moving boxes.
- Fuel-efficient for an SUV: Up to 30 MPG combined.
- Smart choice for independence: A top contender among the best cars for college students who need both flexibility and functionality.
Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Car as a Student
Don’t Just Shop by Price—Look at Total Ownership Costs
Don’t focus only on the purchase price. Be sure to factor in both expected and unexpected expenses such as maintenance, repairs, oil changes, insurance, pre-purchase inspections, and more.
Check Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results
Your car should last through your college years, and safety should always come first. Look for safe cars for new drivers with high safety ratings. Use online tools to review crash test results and safety ratings for different models. You can check the safety rating of your chosen model here.
Always Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Getting a pre-purchase inspection is a smart move, especially when buying a used car. No matter how much you know about cars, some issues won’t be visible at first glance. Paying for an inspection upfront can save you a lot of money and prevent future repair headaches.
Final Thoughts
Making a smart purchase is simple when you focus on three key factors: prioritizing safety, choosing a car that offers good value, and viewing your purchase as a long-term investment. These should be at the core of your car-buying strategy.
Ready to buy a car? Visit usedcars.com to explore a wide variety of the best used cars for students at great prices, and check out our blog for helpful car tips, maintenance advice, and more.