How Much Do Horses Cost?

Those looking for a first-time horse will probably need to have anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 in their budget for the purchase. You may be able to find a gem for less than this, but having that amount will give you the greatest number of choices. The more you have to spend, the more choices you will have.

The Cost of Ponies

Ponies might be smaller in stature than horses, but that doesn't mean their purchase or upkeep costs are proportionally smaller.

The cost of a good pony can be the same or higher than a horse. Expect prices for suitable first ponies to be about $1,000 and upwards.

The Real Cost of a Free Horse

A free horse will probably live up to the old adage, "Never look a gift horse in the mouth." Usually, the horse will be a senior citizen, a youngster with poor prospects or little training, or a horse with behavioral issues. Yes, it's possible to get a really great free horse—like a senior citizen who is level-headed and serviceably sound, whose owner just wants a nice retirement home for it. However, these horses are rare and there's a possibility you're taking on someone's problem.

You might also take on a horse with a health or soundness problem, which can cost you lots of money, even though the initial purchase price was low.

Training and Types of Horses

Likewise, with a $500 to $1,000 horse, these are often youngsters with little training or handling; or horses with soundness, conformation, or behavioral issues. Of course, there's the exception to every rule—there are gems among lower-priced or giveaway horses, but it may take a keen eye and willingness to deal with difficult issues. There are many stories of people taking these 'sows ears' and making them into 'silk purses.' They might not be the right horses for first-time horse owners, however.