A complete golf cart buying guide: new vs. used, electric vs. gas, seating, street legal (LSV) features, top brands, and budget tips to help you buy the right golf cart. Call 1-888-468-8085.
A golf cart is a big purchase, and the right choice depends on how you plan to use it. Whether you want a cart for the golf course, cruising the neighborhood, hauling gear around a property, or getting around a gated community, the same handful of decisions determine which cart fits your life and your budget.
This guide breaks down the key questions every buyer should answer before purchasing a golf cart — new versus used, electric versus gas, seating capacity, street-legal capability, brand reputation, and cost — so you can shop with confidence. Every golf cart at Golf Carta is backed by live inventory and pricing updated daily.
The first and biggest decision is new versus used. A new golf cart gives you the latest battery technology, a full factory warranty, current styling, and — on many models — a factory street-legal (LSV) package. New electric carts in our inventory generally run from around $8,000 for an entry-level model up to roughly $17,000 for a fully equipped premium cart.
A used golf cart delivers far more cart for the money. Clean, inspected used carts from trusted brands like Club Car, Yamaha, and EZGO often start well under $3,000 and can cost half of a comparable new model. The trade-offs are warranty coverage and, on electric carts, battery age — which is why it pays to buy a used cart that has been properly inspected. If value is your priority, a quality used cart is hard to beat.
Electric golf carts are quiet, produce no fumes, and need very little routine maintenance, which makes them ideal for neighborhoods, golf courses, and communities. Modern lithium-battery carts charge faster and last longer than older lead-acid models. Gas golf carts, on the other hand, offer longer range and quick refueling, so they shine on large properties, hilly terrain, and utility work where you can't always stop to charge.
This is one of the most important choices you'll make, so we cover it in depth in our dedicated guide on electric vs. gas golf carts.
Golf carts come in 2-, 4-, and 6-passenger layouts. A 2-passenger cart is compact and great for chores and short trips. The 4-passenger cart is the sweet spot for most buyers and by far the most common configuration. If you regularly carry kids, family, or a foursome, a 6-passenger model is worth the extra cost — the longer wheelbase also rides more smoothly.
Think about where you'll store and drive the cart, too. A larger 6-seater needs more garage space and turning room than a compact two-seater.
If you plan to drive on public roads, you need a street-legal cart — technically a low-speed vehicle (LSV). A true LSV comes with the required safety equipment from the factory, such as headlights, turn signals, mirrors, seat belts, a windshield, and a VIN. This is different from a basic cart with an aftermarket kit bolted on.
Registration and insurance rules vary by state and locality, so always confirm the requirements where you live. We explain the details in our guide to street legal golf cart requirements.
Brand matters for build quality, parts availability, and resale value. Club Car is known for its rustproof aluminum frame and long service life, and its Onward line is a genuine factory street-legal cart. Denago EV focuses entirely on modern, street-legal electric carts and offers strong value on new models. Yamaha is prized for reliability and one of the smoothest gas engines in the industry, while EZGO's TXT and RXV platforms are simple, plentiful, and affordable — a favorite for budget buyers.
There's no single best brand for everyone; the right one depends on whether you want new or used, electric or gas, and how you'll use the cart.
Set a realistic total budget that goes beyond the sticker price. Factor in accessories, delivery, and — on electric carts — eventual battery replacement down the road. Premium brands cost more up front but hold their resale value well, which softens the long-term cost of ownership.
If you'd rather spread the cost over time, golf cart financing and rent-to-own options can make a new or used cart more affordable. See our guide on how to finance a golf cart for the details.
Before buying any used cart, check the battery age and health (for electric), the tires and brakes, the frame for rust or damage, and confirm that lights and accessories work. Ask for the model year and service history. Buying from a dealer with inspected inventory and clear pricing removes much of the guesswork.
When you're ready, browse our full golf cart inventory or call 1-888-468-8085 and a specialist will help you match the right cart to your needs and budget.
Browse the full golf cart inventory or call 1-888-468-8085 to find the right golf cart.
Call 1-888-468-8085 to buy a golf cart today.