Ownership Costs of a Toyota Tacoma vs Ford Ranger Findlay Toyota Henderson

If you're in Las Vegas or Southern Nevada and shopping for a midsize truck, chances are the 2025 Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger are on your shortlist. Both offer rugged performance, off-road capabilities, and the versatility you need for work or play. But which one will cost you less to own in the long run?

From purchase price and fuel efficiency to maintenance and resale value, the true cost of ownership goes far beyond the sticker price. While the Ford Ranger may offer slightly better fuel economy, the Toyota Tacoma has built a reputation for superior resale value and long-term durability—two key factors that could save you thousands over time.

In this guide, we'll break down the numbers and compare Tacoma vs. Ranger ownership costs to help you make the best decision. Whether you're looking for a truck that can handle daily commutes, weekend off-roading, or heavy towing, Findlay Toyota Henderson is here to help. Stop by our dealership or contact us today to explore Tacoma options and take a test drive!

Breaking Down the Costs of Owning a Midsize Truck

Owning a midsize truck is not just about the sticker price you pay at the dealership. Over time, various costs accumulate and can make a significant difference in your total cost of ownership. While you might focus on the upfront purchase price, it’s essential to think about long-term expenses like fuel, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation. These costs can vary between different truck models and even depend on factors like your driving habits, where you live, and how often you use your truck.

Here are the key areas to consider when evaluating the full cost of owning a midsize truck:

• Purchase Price: This is the initial amount you pay for the truck at the dealership. While some trucks may have a higher upfront cost, they could save you money in the long run through better fuel efficiency or lower repair costs.
• Fuel Costs: Depending on the truck’s fuel efficiency, the amount you spend on gas can add up quickly. Trucks with better fuel economy may save you hundreds of dollars annually in fuel costs.
• Insurance: The cost of insuring your truck can vary based on your driving record, the model of your truck, and where you live. Some trucks are more expensive to insure due to their higher repair costs or more powerful engines.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire replacements, and brake inspections are necessary to keep your truck running smoothly. However, some trucks require more frequent or expensive repairs. This can add up over the years.
• Depreciation: Trucks lose value over time, and some models hold their value better than others. A truck with slower depreciation means it retains more of its value when you decide to sell or trade it in.

While these are the main factors, it’s also essential to consider how your driving habits and lifestyle impact the total cost of ownership. For example, if you plan to use your truck for towing or off-roading, you may need to factor in the cost of special equipment or repairs. Additionally, trucks with advanced safety features or better fuel efficiency might cost more initially but save you money in the long run.

By considering these various factors and comparing different models, you can make a more informed decision on which midsize truck will be the best fit for your budget and needs.

Sticker Price: How Much Does Each Truck Cost?

The initial purchase price is one of the biggest factors when deciding which truck to buy. Here’s how the cost of a Toyota Tacoma compares to that of a Ford Ranger:

The 2025 Toyota Tacoma has a starting MSRP of $31,590.

The 2025 Ford Ranger has a starting MSRP of $33,080.

If you’re on a budget, the Toyota Tacoma may be the more affordable option. But, the Ford Ranger has more trim levels to choose from, which might increase the price.

Remember, the purchase price is just the start. You’ll also need to consider other ongoing costs, such as fuel and maintenance, to get a full picture of the truck's overall cost.

Fuel Efficiency: Which Truck Saves You More at the Pump?

When comparing the costs of owning a truck, fuel efficiency plays a big role. Trucks with better mileage will save you money at the pump over time. Here’s a detailed comparison of fuel efficiency between the two trucks:

• Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma gets between 18-24 mpg, depending on the trim and drivetrain. The lower end of this range is typically seen in 4x4 models or those with more powerful engines. The Tacoma's robust build makes it slightly less fuel-efficient, especially when driving in challenging conditions or heavy loads. However, its reliability and performance in off-road situations make it a favorite for many outdoor enthusiasts.
• Ford Ranger: The Ranger performs better in terms of fuel economy, with an average of 21-26 mpg. This improvement is noticeable, especially on longer trips or highway driving. The Ranger's turbocharged engine allows for a more efficient use of fuel, giving you a boost in both power and mileage. This is especially beneficial if you often drive in urban settings or commute long distances.

Additional Considerations:

• Driving Conditions: The difference in fuel economy can vary based on how you drive. If you often drive in the city, stop-and-go traffic can reduce efficiency for both trucks. However, the Ranger's better fuel economy may still save you more money in the long run.
• Fuel Prices: Fuel prices can fluctuate, impacting overall costs. With the Ranger's higher mpg, you may feel less impact from rising gas prices compared to the Tacoma.
• Long-Term Savings: Over time, even a small difference in fuel efficiency can lead to significant savings. If you drive a lot, the Ranger's superior mileage could mean lower fuel costs year after year.
  

Depreciation and Resale Value: Which Truck Holds Its Worth?

Another important cost to consider is depreciation. This is the amount your truck loses in value over time. If you plan to sell or trade your truck, knowing how well it holds its value is key.

• Toyota Tacoma: Tends to lose about 40-50% of its value after five years.
• Ford Ranger: The Ranger depreciates at a slightly higher rate, losing around 45-55% of its value.

The Toyota Tacoma is known for retaining its value better than the Ford Ranger. This can make a big difference if you plan to sell or trade the truck later.

Knowing how a truck depreciates can help you choose a vehicle that won’t cost you too much in the long run.

Insurance Costs: What You Can Expect to Pay

Insurance costs are another key factor in the total cost of owning a truck. Depending on the model and your driving record, your premiums will vary.

• Toyota Tacoma: On average, the insurance for a Tacoma typically costs around $1,200 to $1,600 per year.
• Ford Ranger: The annual insurance cost for a Ranger typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500.

While the Ford Ranger may have slightly lower insurance rates, the difference is not huge. Your location, driving habits, and coverage choices will have a bigger effect on how much you pay for insurance.

Understanding the insurance costs for both trucks will help you plan your budget more accurately.

Maintenance and Repair Expenses: Which Truck Costs Less to Maintain?

When considering a truck, maintenance and repair costs should be factored into your overall budget. Over time, these expenses can add up. Here's how the two trucks compare in terms of maintenance and repair:

• Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma is known for its reliability, meaning fewer trips to the repair shop. On average, maintenance costs for the Tacoma can range from $300 to $500 annually. Routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements are generally affordable, and major repairs are often less frequent. Toyota's reputation for durability means that many owners can enjoy lower long-term costs.
• Ford Ranger: The Ranger also boasts a solid reputation for reliability, though some owners report slightly higher costs for parts and labor compared to the Tacoma. You can expect annual maintenance expenses to be around $400 to $600. While this is not a huge difference, it may add up over time, especially if you require repairs outside of regular maintenance.
  

In terms of maintenance and repairs, the Toyota Tacoma tends to have lower costs overall, thanks to its strong reliability and the availability of affordable parts. However, the Ford Ranger still offers competitive pricing for upkeep, with only a slight difference in long-term expenses. Regular maintenance on either truck will help keep costs manageable.

Financing and Loan Considerations

When buying a truck, understanding the financing options is key. You need to think about how much you will pay monthly and what the overall cost of the loan will be. Here's a comparison of the two trucks based on financing options:

• Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma is often easier to finance, especially for buyers with good credit. Interest rates for the Tacoma are typically competitive. Monthly payments for the base model tend to be lower due to the vehicle's starting price.
• Ford Ranger: The Ranger is priced slightly higher than the Tacoma, which can result in larger monthly payments. Financing rates are similar to the Tacoma’s, but the higher sticker price can make the loan a bit more expensive.

Both trucks offer good financing options. However, the Toyota Tacoma may be the better choice if you’re looking for lower monthly payments due to its starting price.

Total Cost of Ownership: Which Truck is the Better Long-Term Investment?

When you consider the total cost of ownership, it's about more than just the purchase price. You need to look at maintenance, fuel costs, and resale value to understand which truck is the best investment over time. Here's how these two compare:

• Toyota Tacoma: Known for long-term reliability, the Tacoma is likely to cost less in repairs and retain more value. It has lower maintenance costs and a strong resale value.
• Ford Ranger: While the Ranger is an excellent truck, its slightly higher maintenance costs and depreciation rate can make it a more expensive long-term investment.

If you plan on keeping your truck for several years, the Toyota Tacoma could be a better long-term investment due to its lower maintenance costs and better resale value. While the Ford Ranger is also a solid option, the Tacoma may save you more money over time.

What are the expected fuel efficiency differences between the Tacoma and Ranger?

• The Toyota Tacoma gets between 18-24 mpg, depending on the trim and drivetrain.
• The Ford Ranger performs better with an average of 21-26 mpg, making it a more fuel-efficient option.

How do maintenance and repair costs typically compare between Tacoma and Ranger?

• Maintenance and repair costs for both trucks are similar, but the Toyota Tacoma tends to have slightly lower costs due to its strong reliability and reputation for fewer issues over time.
• The Ford Ranger may have higher repair costs due to its more complex turbocharged engine, but overall maintenance costs are generally comparable.

What is the expected depreciation rate for both vehicles over five years?

• The Toyota Tacoma generally holds its value well, with a depreciation rate of around 30-40% over five years.
• The Ford Ranger, while also holding value reasonably well, typically depreciates at a slightly higher rate, around 35-45% over five years.

These answers can help you better understand the financial aspects of owning either the Toyota Tacoma or Ford Ranger.

Buy Your Next Truck at Findlay Toyota of Las Vegas

As you explore the costs of owning a truck, it’s also important to consider how your vehicle fits into your lifestyle. If you're in Las Vegas or Southern Nevada, Findlay Toyota Henderson is the perfect place to explore your options. Our selection of vehicles, including the Toyota Tacoma, is sure to meet your needs and preferences.

While you're here, don't forget to check out our content on some of the best Michelin Star restaurants in Las Vegas, perfect for your next dining experience. We also have useful guides on topics like whether Las Vegas has an international airport and the exciting world of professional sports teams in Las Vegas.

Explore our site and discover how a new vehicle can be part of your Las Vegas lifestyle. Contact us today for more information about owning a Toyota Tacoma, and let us help you make the best decision for your future.