How Much Does an Outboard Motor Cost?
An outboard motor is mounted outside the boat on the back and is different from an inboard boat motor, which is built into the body of the boat.
How much does an outboard motor cost?
On average, the cost of a new outboard motor can be as little as $900 to as much as $25,000 or more. With so many factors, take a look at the chart below to get a good idea what each type of motor is going to cost. All in all, the costs will depend on the brand, horsepower, condition and where you purchase it from.
| Horsepower (HP) | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 2.5 | $900 to $1,500 |
| 4 | $1,300 to $2,000 |
| 6 | $1,600 to $2,300 |
| 8 | $2,100 to $2,900 |
| 9.9 | $2,600 to $3,300 |
| 15 | $3,000 to $3,500 |
| 20 | $3,200 to $3,800 |
| 25 | $3,400 to $4,000 |
| 40 | $5,000 to $6,000 |
| 50 | $6,000 to $7,000 |
| 60 | $6,500 to $7,500 |
| 70 | $7,200 to $8,000 |
| 75 | $7,300 to $8,300 |
| 90 | $8,200 to $9,200 |
| 115 | $9,100 to $10,100 |
| 150 | $10,300 to $12,100 |
| 175 | $11,000 to $13,500 |
| 200 | $14,500 to $17,500 |
| 225 | $16,700 to $19,500 |
| 250 | $17,900 to $20,000 |
| 300 | $20,000 to $23,000 |
| 350 | $21,000 to $25,000 |
NOTE: This chart is just for the horsepower only. This does not factor in the brand, starting system, year, length and/or weight. These are just price ranges you may pay at a local retailer.
This table refers to the most popular brands, along with the average price paid for select motors:
| Brand | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Evinrude | - 2.5 HP: $1,100 - 15 HP: $4,000 - 25 HP: $4,000 - 40 HP: $6,000 - 60 HP: $7,800 - 90 HP: $10,000 - 115 HP: $11,500 - 150 HP: $14,000 - 200 HP: $18,000 - 250 HP: $22,000 |
| Honda | - 2.5 HP: $1,100 - 15 HP: $4,000 - 25 HP: $4,000 - 40 HP: $6,000 - 60 HP: $7,800 - 90 HP: $10,000 - 115 HP: $11,500 - 150 HP: $14,000 - 200 HP: $18,000 - 250 HP: $22,000 |
| Mercury | - 2.5 HP: $900 - 4 HP: $1,400 - 6 HP: $1,800 - 8 HP: $2,000 - 15 HP: $2,600 - 20 HP: $3,600 |
| Suzuki | - 2.5 HP: $750 - 6 HP: $1,500 - 15 HP: $2,700 - 20 HP: $2,800 - 25 HP: $3,500 - 30 HP: $4,500 |
| Yamaha | - 2.5 HP: $850 - 15 HP: $2,500 - 25 HP: $3,200 - 40 HP: $5,500 - 60 HP: $7,000 - 90 HP: $8,500 - 150 HP: $13,500 - 200 HP: $17,000 - 300 HP: $22,000 |
PDB Magazine broke down the costs they had researched from popular brands such as Evinrude, Honda, Mercury and Yamaha. According to their research, a 40 h.p. motor could cost $6,671, while a 250 h.p. outboard motor could cost closer to $22,000.
Outboard motor overview
An outboard motor is a self-contained unit which includes an engine, subsidiary systems, and propeller designed to be mounted at the stern of the craft.
Outboard motors will have a certain amount of horsepower, a dry weight, a certain number of cylinders, start type (electric or manual) and a fuel type, which is usually gasoline. The horsepower can range anywhere from 15 to 115 h.p. However, some outboard motors can be as high as 350.
Common shaft lengths include 15, 20 and 25 inches.
Popular brands include Evinrude, Honda, Mercury, Tohatsu and Yamaha.
What are the extra costs?
If purchased online, additional shipping fees may apply, depending on the retailer.
The prices above are for the motor only and wouldn’t include professional installation if you required it. The costs to install a new outboard motor will depend on the size of the motor, where you live and which dealer you hire. On average, be prepared to spend another $400 to $1,200.
Don’t forget to budget for future repairs and/or maintenance such as tune-ups and oil changes.
Tips to know
Some of the differences between an inboard and outboard motors can cause you to wonder which one is best. While the horsepower can be the same, an inboard motor will be lighter than an outboard, meaning the boat will be quicker. An outboard motor, however, is easier to work on in case there is a problem or maintenance is needed.
How can I save money?
If you know what to look out for, a slightly used outboard motor can be purchased on eBay for up to 40 percent off. However, if you were to buy used anywhere, try your best to test it in person and check its condition. If buying from a dealer, then it’s wise to find one who will include a limited warranty in case it fails.
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