Most horse projects cost between $6,000 and $30,000 per year, with a typical price near $15,000. Prices vary by state and city, so the range below is a planning guide rather than a quote.
Typical horse cost
$6,000 – $30,000
per year · typical $15,000
A general planning range, not a quotation.
Horse cost breakdown
- Self-care boarding$6,000 – $12,000typical $9,000
- Full-care boarding$15,000 – $30,000typical $20,000
- Routine vet & farrier$2,000 – $4,000typical $3,000
What Horse Ownership costs
Encompasses feed, boarding (if not at home), farrier, veterinary care, dental, deworming, and equipment. Costs vary widely by region, horse's needs, and whether you keep it on your own property.
Costs by state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Alberta
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- British Columbia
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Manitoba
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Brunswick
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Ontario
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Rhode Island
- Saskatchewan
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- Yukon
Frequently asked questions
What's the biggest expense?
Boarding is usually the largest (if not at home). Feed and hay are also significant, especially in winter.
How much does a horse cost upfront?
Purchase prices vary from a few hundred to thousands. Annual upkeep is more important for budgeting.
How can I reduce costs?
Consider a lease-to-own, share boarding, do your own mucking, buy feed in bulk, or choose a hardy breed.