A campervan can cost anywhere from $25,000 to over $200,000 depending on your choice of base vehicle, conversion style, and included features. Monthly living expenses in Colorado for van life typically range between $800 and $3,000+ depending on lifestyle and travel habits. Below is a thorough guide to pricing, options, and everything you should consider before making your investment.
How Much Does a Van Cost?
Understanding Total Costs
The total cost of owning and living in a campervan includes the price of the van itself, conversion or build costs, and regular monthly expenses for life on the road. These major cost areas can vary widely based on DIY conversions, professional builds, the van’s age, and the features you select.
Van Pricing Breakdown
| Model | New Price Range | Used Price Range (2015–19) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes Sprinter | $40,000–$70,000 | $25,000–$45,000 | High-end builds, durability, 4x4 |
| Ford Transit | $35,000–$55,000 | $20,000–$35,000 | Value builds, easy repairs |
| Ram ProMaster City | ~$25,000 (new) | $18,000–$30,000 | Urban stealth camping, budget options |
| GMC Savana Cargo | $45,000–$48,000 | $30,000–$40,000 | Commercial builds, simple layouts |
Budget shoppers may find older, high-mileage vans for $10,000–$18,000, but should plan for repairs and upgrades.
Conversion & Interior Component Costs
| Component | DIY Cost | Professional Conversion Cost | Importance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insulation | $500–$1,500 | $2,000–$3,000 | Comfort and all-weather capability |
| Electrical System | $1,200–$6,000 | $5,000–$10,000 | Solar, lights, phone charging |
| Plumbing & Toilet | $500–$2,000 | $3,000–$7,000 | Convenience, cleanliness |
| Furniture & Fixtures | $2,000–$8,000 | $10,000–$20,000 | Bed, seating, kitchen, custom design |
| Batteries & Solar | $3,000–$8,000 | $5,000+ | Off-grid use |
| Heater/AC | $1,200–$2,000 | $2,000+ | Necessary for Colorado winters |
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DIY builds may total $5,000–$25,000 for basic comfort and function.
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Professional builds typically range from $40,000 to $100,000+ based on luxury, durability, and feature set.
Price Tiers & Buyer Profiles
| Tier | Total Cost | Van Age | Conversion Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $25,000–$50,000 | Used | DIY conversion | Weekend campers, minimalist |
| Mid-Range | $50,000–$100,000 | New/Recent | Pro/modular build | Couples, remote work, upgrades |
| Luxury | $100,000–$200,000+ | New | Custom/pro-built | Families, all-season, full-time |
Luxury brands, like Infinity Vans’ Ascent models and The Vansmith custom builds, focus on high-end finishes, ergonomic layouts, and off-grid capabilities specific to Colorado adventures.
Monthly Van Life Expenses
| Expense | Monthly Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Gas | $150–$500 |
| Insurance | $75–$200 |
| Food | $300–$600 |
| Campsites/Parking | $0–$600 |
| Internet/Phone | $50–$150 |
| Maintenance | $50–$200 |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$150 |
| Average Total | $800–$3,000+ |
The average monthly spend typically lands around $945, but full-timers with more travel and comfort requirements will trend higher, especially in popular areas like Denver, Boulder, and mountain parks.
Best Choices for Colorado Van Life
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Budget Builds ($25K–$50K): For solo travelers or DIYers seeking weekend getaways or minimalist living.
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Mid-Range Builds ($50K–$100K): Ideal for couples, work-from-anywhere lifestyles, and those who want more comfort or modular upgrades.
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Luxury Builds ($100K+): Perfect for families, long-term travelers, or vanlifers who want home-like features and all-season reliability in Colorado’s variable climate.
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Pre-built Vans: Turnkey adventure solutions available from Infinity Vans and The Vansmith, designed to handle rough terrain, cold weather, and everyday use.
Decision Checklist
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Buy used to save upfront, but budget for repairs and upgrades.
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A DIY conversion reduces labor costs but requires time, skill, and patience.Choose a pro-build if you want fast, reliable results with high-quality finishes.
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Always account for insurance, maintenance, upgrades, and monthly living expenses.
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Assess your travel habits, climate needs, and long-term goals before purchasing.
Final Take
Campervan pricing in Colorado reflects high demand, rugged landscapes, and a focus on sustainable travel. A mid-range conversion ($50K–$100K) offers the most value and balance for comfort, longevity, and resale potential, while high-end options deliver home-level luxury for all seasons.
For custom quotes, modular solutions, and consulting backed by deep Colorado expertise, reach out to The Vansmith; for off-the-shelf builds, explore Infinity Vans for adventure-ready combinations.
FAQs About the Cost of Van Life
Is Van Life Cheaper than Traditional Living?
Yes—if you travel mindfully. Living in a van can eliminate rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, and commute costs. But costs can creep up with frequent driving, campground stays, or luxury upgrades.
How Much Does a Livable Van Cost?
A fully livable van typically starts at $60,000–$90,000, including both the van and the conversion. DIY versions can cost as little as $25,000 if you’re handy and resourceful.
Is Van Life Worth It Financially?
Absolutely, if it aligns with your lifestyle. You’ll save on housing while gaining freedom, travel, and flexibility. But the cost of van life depends on how much you drive, how you camp, and what comforts you require.
How Much Money Do You Need to Live Out of a Van?
We recommend budgeting $1,000–$1,500/month for part-time travel, and $2,000–$3,000/month for full-time van living with more amenities or travel.
