If you’re considering entering the towing business or adding a tow truck to your fleet, one of the first—and most critical—questions you'll ask is: how much does it cost to purchase a tow truck? The price varies widely based on size, condition, and equipment. Let's break it down.

1. Tow Truck Price Ranges in 2025

Light-Duty (Class 1–3)

  • New: $60,000 – $90,000 

  • Used: $30,000 – $50,000

Medium-Duty (Class 4–6)

  • New: $100,000 – $150,000

  • Used: $50,000 – $80,000 

Heavy-Duty (Class 7–8)

  • New: $200,000 – $650,000

  • Used: $100,000 – $200,000

There are variations in pricing—some sources cite lighter averages (e.g., $70K–$100K new heavy-duty) tucsontowtruck.com, but the headline figures give a solid overview.

2. Price by Tow Truck Type

Truck Type New Price Range Used Price Range
Flatbed $40,000 – $200,000  $15,000 – $100,000
Hook & Chain $30,000 – $60,000 $20,000 – $80,000
Wheel-Lift $35,000 – $75,000 $15,000 – $60,000
Integrated $50,000 – $850,000 $100,000 – $500,000
Boom (Heavy-Duty) $75,000 – $150,000+ $80,000 – $120,000

 

3. Beyond the Sticker Price: Ongoing Costs

Purchasing a tow truck is just the beginning. Consider these annual operating costs:

  • Insurance: $4,000 – $15,000

  • Fuel: $9,000/year for heavy-duty (diesel) 

  • Maintenance/Repairs: $6,000–$15,000 annually

  • Registration/Licenses: $100–$500/year

Total monthly costs can average $1,300–$4,000 , with operating expenses varying depending on usage.

4. Financing and Startup Costs for Businesses

Starting a towing business? Here's what to expect:

  • New truck + equipment: $66,500 – $272,000 

  • Used truck route: $27,500 – $159,000 

  • Leasing: $24,500 – $72,500/year 

These numbers include marketing, permits, and contingencies, but operating costs (fuel, salaries, maintenance) will stack on top.

5. Tips from the Field

Reddit users with hands-on experience highlight a few key lessons:

“Under $10K you’re gonna be looking at … and I’d say don’t buy.” 
“If you want something for lifting … a rollback is more of a general purpose tool.” 

  • Expect used trucks under $10K to require heavy repairs.

  • Rollbacks (flatbeds) offer versatility for personal or small-scale business use.

  • Financing mid-range trucks (Class 4–6) may be the best value vs. heavy-duty rigs.

Conclusion

If you're asking “how much does it cost to purchase a tow truck?”, here's a quick snapshot:

  • New light-duty: ~$60K–90K

  • New medium-duty: ~$100K–150K

  • New heavy-duty: ~$200K–650K+

  • Used models: ~$30K–200K+ depending on class

And that’s before insurance, maintenance, gas, and licensing—which can add several thousand per year. Financing and business startup costs push totals even higher if you're launching a towing operation.

Final Advice for U.S. Buyers

  1. Clarify your mission: Personal use? Light towing? Heavy commercial?

  2. Set a realistic budget: Used medium-duty trucks offer solid ROI.

  3. Shop smart: Bring a mechanic to inspect used trucks; consider financing options.

  4. Plan for ongoing expenses: Factor in insurance, fuel, and repairs.

With the right approach, purchasing a tow truck can be a lucrative investment—just know all the numbers before signing on the dotted line.