When evaluating a Bobcat skid steer, buyers typically pay a range that depends on model size, age, and whether the machine is rented or purchased. The main cost drivers are purchase price or rental rate, attachments, maintenance, and insurance. Understanding price ranges helps buyers budget accurately and compare options.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase price (new) | $34,000 | $60,000 | $120,000 | Track or wheel models vary; loader capacity impacts cost. |
| Purchase price (used) | $15,000 | $40,000 | $75,000 | Age, hours, and condition affect value. |
| Rental rate (daily) | $200 | $350 | $600 | Includes basic delivery; longer terms reduce daily rate. |
| Attachments | $150 | $600 | $2,000 | Buckets, forks, augers, and grapples add to cost. |
| Maintenance & insure | $1,000 | $2,500 | $6,000 | Oil changes, parts, and insurance premiums vary by usage. |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges cover purchase and ongoing ownership or rental expenses. For a standard 70–90 horsepower skid steer, expect purchase price around $40,000–$90,000 new, $20,000–$50,000 used, and rental rates of $250–$450 per day for short-term projects. Assumptions: mid-range horsepower, typical attachments, and standard maintenance cycles.
Cost Breakdown
Direct costs are driven by the machine’s size, hours, and intended usage, with additional charges for attachments and services.
| Components | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $0 | $0–$2,000 | $2,000 | Basic maintenance parts included in some plans. |
| Labor | $0 | $1,000–$4,000 | $8,000 | Labor for installation, operator training, or service work. |
| Equipment | $0 | $1,500–$8,000 | $20,000 | Attachments and auxiliary machines. |
| Permits | $0 | $100–$400 | $1,000 | Local use permits or transportation permits if moving between jobsites. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0–$400 | $500–$1,800 | $3,500 | Delivery to site and decommissioning at project end. |
| Warranty & Support | $0 | $500–$2,000 | $5,000 | Extended warranties add cost but reduce risk. |
| Taxes | $0 | $1,000–$4,000 | $9,000 | Depends on state and purchase type. |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
What Drives Price
Primary price factors include machine size, horsepower, track type, and hours of use. Substantial differences come from whether the skid steer is new or used, the inclusion of advanced hydraulics, and the need for specialized attachments. For rentals, duration and delivery distance shift the per-day rate, while ownership costs hinge on depreciation and maintenance costs over time.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to demand, taxes, and freight. In the Northeast, you may see higher purchase and delivery costs compared with the Southeast or Midwest. Urban markets often command higher rental rates than suburban or rural areas, with roughly ±10–25% deltas depending on distance to dealers and parts availability.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Operator time and maintenance labor are a meaningful portion of ongoing costs. For projects with limited hours, renting with a pre-arranged operator can be cost-efficient. If maintenance is outsourced, factor in service call fees as part of the total ownership cost. A typical operator rate runs $50–$90 per hour, depending on region and expertise.
What To Consider With Attachments
Attachment choice can significantly alter total spend. A standard dirt bucket is base-level, while a high-capacity grapple or hydraulic breaker can add thousands. Budget for quick-attach systems and compatibility with existing hydraulics. Common combos include a bucket plus forks, or a bucket with a hydraulic breaker for demolition work.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario snapshots illustrate typical project costs and help compare options.
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Basic: Used Bobcat skid steer, 60–70 horsepower, standard bucket.
Specs: 8,000–12,000 hours, no major upgrades. Hours: 6–8, daily rate: $260, total 5 days: $1,300–$1,800 plus fees. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> -
Mid-Range: New or Certified-Pre-Owned, 75–85 horsepower, bucket + forks.
Purchase: $45,000–$70,000, attachments: $1,200–$3,000, delivery: $400–$1,200, tax: $2,000–$5,000; total $50,600–$89,200. -
Premium: High-spec, 90–110 horsepower, hydraulic attachments, extended warranty.
Purchase: $90,000–$120,000, attachments: $6,000–$12,000, warranty: $2,500–$5,000; total $98,500–$137,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Compared To Alternatives
Compare with compact track loaders or mini excavators for certain tasks. Skid steers typically offer lower upfront cost and higher maneuverability in tight spaces, but larger or tracked alternatives may be more efficient for heavy dirt, rock, or trenching work. When selecting, weigh purchase price against expected annual usage, maintenance cycles, and resale value.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Ongoing maintenance significantly impacts long-term cost. Oil changes, filter replacements, hydraulic valves, and tire or track wear add up. For a mid-range machine, budget $1,500–$3,500 annually for routine care, with contingency for major repairs or component failures. Insurance premiums vary by usage, geography, and operator history.
Seasonality & Price Trends
Demand spikes in construction season influence price and availability. Spring and summer periods may see tighter rental inventory and higher delivery fees. Off-season pricing can yield discounts on longer rental terms or certified pre-owned purchases.
Permits, Codes & Rebates
Local rules can affect total cost via permits or rebates. Some states offer incentives for equipment with efficiency features or for jobs that qualify under energy or infrastructure programs. Verify local requirements and potential rebates before finalizing a deal.