Tesla Model 3 vs Tesla Model Y
Which one costs less to own? Both priced at $32,000, 3 years old, with 20% down on a 60-month loan, 12,000 miles a year and US average costs. Only the car's own costs differ.
The short answer
The Tesla Model 3 costs about $1,977 less to own over five years than the Tesla Model Y. Mostly because it keeps more of its value.
Check the Model 3 with your numbers Check the Model Y
Cost to own, side by side
| Model 3 | Model Y | |
|---|---|---|
| Value kept after 5 years | 44% | 40% |
| Worth after 5 years | $14,080 | $12,800 |
| Charging per year | $510 | $567 |
| Insurance per year | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Repairs and maintenance, 5 years | $1,751 | $2,165 |
| True monthly cost | $871 | $881 |
| 5-year cost after resale | $44,955 | $46,931 |
Which one is worth it at your income?
The highest price that still scores Worth it (70 or more), with the same loan and costs as above.
| Yearly income | Model 3 | Model Y |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $13,000 | $11,000 |
| $75,000 | $27,500 | $25,000 |
| $100,000 | $42,500 | $39,000 |
Real prices differ by trim, mileage and condition, and your insurance quote and loan rate matter a lot. Run your own numbers for the exact car you are looking at.
More on each car
Is a Tesla Model 3 worth it? · Is a Tesla Model Y worth it?
Figures are estimates from public averages (data as of 2026-10), not quotes or financial advice. Resale from iSeeCars, repair costs from CarEdge. See how we score.