Should you buy new or used? Real 2026 price ranges, battery comparison (lithium vs lead-acid), inspection checklist, and the hidden costs nobody mentions.
The golf cart market in Florida is wild, prices swing thousands between sellers for similar carts. Here is how to buy smart in Destin and Miramar Beach, whether new or used.
New 4-seat electric: 8k to 12k. New 6-seat lifted: 12k to 16k. Used 2-4 year old carts: 5k to 8k. Anything newer than 5 years with lithium batteries holds value shockingly well in coastal markets.
Lithium costs more upfront but lasts 3x longer, charges in 2 hours, and loses no range on hills. Lead-acid needs water refills and dies in 3-5 years. On the coast, lithium wins, humidity murders lead-acid.
Battery date codes (anything 4+ years old is a replacement bill), tire wear, brake function, frame rust (coastal killer), and a test drive at full speed. If a seller will not let you test drive, walk away.
Insurance (100 to 300 per year in FL), registration as LSV, charger (often not included used), and storage. Budget 500 per year beyond the sticker.
Brand new, street-legal carts start at $99/day with free delivery on rentals of 4 days or more anywhere in Destin, FL and Miramar Beach, FL. Call or text (850) 299-8575 to reserve yours — peak-season dates go fast.
New street-legal electric carts average 9,000 to 12,000 dollars; used carts in good condition run 5,000 to 8,000. Lithium battery models command a premium but cost less over 5 years.
Yes if the batteries are under 3 years old and the frame is rust-free, you save 30-40 percent. Our inspected used carts include a battery health report.