Best Used Trucks Under $30,000 in August 2024

As we cruise through August 2024, the used truck market offers enticing options for buyers on a budget. If you’re hunting for a reliable used truck under $30,000, you’re in luck. Leveraging Bumper.com’s extensive dataset, we have identified the top 10 used trucks worth considering this month. Notably, the recent substantial price drops make this an ideal time to purchase your dream truck. However, remember that price reductions often reflect market dynamics and seasonal trends rather than simple depreciation. Buckle up as we dive into the key trends shaping the budget used truck category.

Key trends in the budget used truck category

Significant price decreases across top models

One of the most striking trends is the noticeable price drops in top models like the Chevrolet S-10 Pickup and Chevrolet GMT-400, with average price decreases of -8.41% and -4.04%, respectively, over the past 30 to 60 days. These trucks offer compelling value for budget-conscious buyers.

High inventory levels indicate a buyer’s market

Popular models such as the Toyota Tundra and Chevrolet Colorado show high numbers of vehicles available in the market. For example, the Toyota Tundra has over 6,600 listings. High inventory levels often translate to better bargaining power for buyers, making it a strategic time to purchase.

Moderate price stability in certain models

Trucks like the Ford F-350 and GMC Canyon have shown relatively stable pricing over the past 90 to 120 days, with slight fluctuations. This stability can reassure buyers wary of steep price drops or sudden hikes.

Varying age and mileage reflect diverse options

From older models like the 28.88-year-old Chevrolet GMT-400 to relatively newer options like the seven-year-old Chevrolet Colorado, the used truck market offers a broad range of choices. Similarly, average mileages range from around 77,000 miles for the Chevrolet Colorado to over 167,000 miles for the Ford F-350, catering to different buyer preferences.

Discounts from list to sale price

Almost all trucks in our top 10 list show discounts from their initial list price to final sale price. For instance, the Chevrolet S-10 Pickup saw an average discount of 5.90%, which is significant for budget buyers looking for additional savings. Always remember to check the vehicle history report and use VIN lookups for further peace of mind and to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Here’s our top 10 list with quick analyses and key stats for each vehicle:

Top 10 used trucks under $30,000

1. Chevrolet S-10 Pickup

The Chevrolet S-10 Pickup saw a significant decrease in average price from 30 to 60 days ago. It’s notable for its high average vehicle age and mileage.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 132,895.22
• Average initial list price: $8,394
• Average final list price: $7,899
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -8.41%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 5.90%
• Market share: 22%

2. Chevrolet GMT-400

The Chevrolet GMT-400 has the highest average vehicle age in the list. It exhibits relatively stable prices with a modest recent decline.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 162,993.56
• Average initial list price: $10,635
• Average final list price: $10,269
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -4.04%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 3.40%
• Market share: 19%

3. Ford F-350

The Ford F-350 remains a popular option with the smallest average price discount in the top 3. It also has a high average list price.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 167,341.32
• Average initial list price: $20,222
• Average final list price: $19,879
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -1.49%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 1.70%
• Market share: 14%

4. GMC Canyon

Offering a balance between vehicle age and mileage, the GMC Canyon maintains relatively stable prices and sees slight price reductions over time.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 85,346.59
• Average initial list price: $23,372
• Average final list price: $22,906
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.81%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 2.00%
• Market share: 14%

5. Ram 2500

The Ram 2500 has experienced a price decrease over the previous year, and it has a higher average list price than many in the top 10.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 140,154.36
• Average initial list price: $25,441
• Average final list price: $24,920
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.54%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 2.00%
• Market share: 10%

6. Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra shows marginal price appreciation over the past year, emphasizing its enduring value. It has a moderate discount percentage.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 142,674.31
• Average initial list price: $20,101
• Average final list price: $19,834
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.51%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 1.30%
• Market share: 10%

7. Honda Ridgeline

Notable for a recent price surge over the past year, the Honda Ridgeline retains strong market performance with a decent discount rate.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 105,935.76
• Average initial list price: $20,519
• Average final list price: $20,080
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.49%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 2.10%
• Market share: 8%

8. Ford Explorer Sport Trac

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac features one of the oldest average vehicle ages among the top 10, with a declining average list price.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 145,969.52
• Average initial list price: $9,486
• Average final list price: $9,375
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.42%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 1.20%
• Market share: 7%

9. Chevrolet Colorado

With a younger average vehicle age and lower mileage, the Chevrolet Colorado offers slightly stable to decreasing prices.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 77,284.96
• Average initial list price: $23,062
• Average final list price: $22,655
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.26%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 1.80%
• Market share: 6%

10. Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma remains popular with moderate discounts and slightly appreciating prices, marking its strong market presence.

• Average listed vehicle mileage: 108,714.41
• Average initial list price: $22,431
• Average final list price: $22,103
• Average price change 30 days versus 60 days ago: -0.19%
• Average discount seen from list to sale: 1.50%
• Market share: 10%

In essence, August 2024 stands out as a prime time for those in the market for used trucks under $30,000. With prices on a downward trajectory and a wide array of options available, this could well be the opportune moment to proceed with your purchase. It remains crucial, however, to perform thorough due diligence by examining vehicle history reports and utilizing VIN lookups to try and ensure that you make a well-informed buying decision. Embarking on your truck hunting journey now could lead to considerable savings and satisfaction. Happy hunting!

AI Disclaimer: The images presented here were created using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. While we strive for accuracy, they are artistic representations and may not depict exact or true-to-life details. We do not guarantee the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of any information in these images. For accurate and detailed representations, we recommend consulting the vehicle manufacturer directly.