Leave a Comment
The monthly cost to live in an RV park varies widely based on several factors. Monthly rates can range from $450 to $2,500+, depending on the location, amenities (full hookups with water/electric/sewer, pull-thru or back-in site, etc.), and season (high season or low season). Private resorts tend to be more expensive than public campgrounds, while membership clubs like Good Sam’s Club and Escapees can help you save money.
Of course, that’s just a high-level overview. Let’s break this down to help you find monthly RV park rates, factor in additional expenses, and find ways to save money for long-term or full-time RV living.
Types of RV Parks and Their Costs
Understanding the different types of RV parks and their associated costs is important for anyone considering long-term or full-time RV living. The type of park you choose can significantly impact your monthly expenses, amenities, and overall experience.
Private RV Parks
Private RV parks are often owned by individuals or companies and offer a range of amenities that can include swimming pools, fitness centers, and even small convenience stores. These parks are generally well-maintained and provide various site options, such as pull-thru and back-in sites, often with full hookups.
Regarding average monthly rates, private RV parks are usually on the higher end of the spectrum. You can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per month, depending on the location and amenities offered. Some private RV parks also offer membership options, allowing you to pay an annual fee in exchange for discounted monthly rates.
National or State Park Campgrounds
National or State Park campgrounds offer a more rustic and natural setting. These parks are often located in scenic areas and provide basic amenities such as water and electric sites. Full hookups are generally less common in these settings.
These parks often have length-of-stay restrictions, which may require you to move after a certain period, usually after two weeks. So, you won’t see any monthly rates or discounted savings for extended stays.
That said, rates for staying at a National or State Park campground are typically lower than those of private RV parks. Even at the daily rate, typically between $15 and $40, you can expect to pay just $450 to $1,200 per month.
Tip: Military veterans, Gold Star families, seniors, and others may be eligible for a discounted rate at national and state parks. View the National Park discounts or contact the park directly for more information.
Factors Influencing Monthly RV Park Rates
When it comes to RV park costs, several factors come into play that can significantly influence the overall cost. Understanding these variables can help you make an informed decision and possibly save money in the long run.
Stay Length
The duration of your stay can directly impact the monthly rate you pay. Many RV parks offer discounted rates for longer stays.
For example, the daily rate might be $50, but the monthly rate could be calculated to effectively bring down the daily cost to $40 if you commit to a full month. Some parks even offer additional discounts for quarterly or annual commitments.
Amenities Offered
The amenities an RV park offers can also affect the monthly rate. Parks with numerous amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and organized activities often charge higher monthly rates.
On the other hand, basic RV parks with fewer amenities are usually more budget-friendly. Consider what amenities are important to you and whether you’re willing to pay extra for them.
Size of Your RV
The size of your RV can also affect the cost of your stay. Larger RVs often require larger campsites, which are generally priced higher than smaller sites. Additionally, larger RVs may require more electricity and water, which could result in higher utility fees. It’s common to find that sites for larger RVs can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 more per month compared to sites for smaller RVs.
Utilities
While some RV parks include utilities in their monthly rates, others charge for these separately. Utilities can include electricity, water, sewer, and even Wi-Fi or cable TV. Depending on usage and the park’s pricing structure, these additional costs can range from $50 to $200 per month.
Geographic Location
The location of the RV park is another significant factor in determining monthly rates. Parks located in popular tourist destinations or near major cities tend to be more expensive. Conversely, parks in rural or less popular areas are generally more affordable.
For instance, an RV park in a coastal California town may charge upwards of $2,000 per month, while a park in a small Midwest town might only charge $600.
Seasonal Variations
Seasonal demand can lead to fluctuating rates. During peak season, when demand is high, you can expect to pay premium rates. Off-season rates are generally lower and can offer substantial savings. Some RV parks also offer special “snowbird” rates for those looking to escape colder climates during the winter months.
Additional Costs in Long-Term RV Living
The RV lifestyle involves more than just the monthly park rates. You’ll need to account for several other costs to get a complete picture of your living expenses.
Electric
Electricity is often one of the most significant utility expenses in RV living. While some RV parks include electric charges in their monthly rates, others bill separately based on usage. The cost can vary widely depending on your consumption and the local rates, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 monthly.
Cable/Satellite
If you’re someone who enjoys television, you’ll likely want to consider the cost of cable or satellite service. Monthly subscriptions can range from $20 for basic packages to over $100 for more comprehensive options. Some RV parks offer cable as an included amenity, but this is more common in higher-end resorts.
Internet
Staying connected while on the road is essential for many people, especially those who work remotely. While some RV parks offer free Wi-Fi, the quality and speed can be inconsistent. Many full-timers opt for a dedicated internet plan, which can cost between $50 and $150 per month, depending on the data package.
Propane/Fuel
The cost of propane can vary, but expect to spend around $20 to $40 per month. Fuel costs for driving your RV (or tow vehicle) will also add to your expenses, which vary widely based on how much you plan to travel.
Repairs & Maintenance
Owning an RV comes with the responsibility of upkeep. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and system checks, are essential for the longevity of your vehicle.
Additionally, unexpected repairs can and will arise. I recommend budgeting at least $100 to $200 per month for repairs and maintenance.
RV (and Tow Vehicle) Insurance
Insurance is a mandatory cost that provides financial protection in case of accidents or other unforeseen events. The cost of RV insurance can vary based on factors like the value of your RV, your driving history, and the level of coverage you choose. Monthly premiums can range from $50 to $200. If you have a separate tow vehicle, you’ll also need to account for its insurance costs.
Membership Discounts and Special Monthly Rates
One way to offset the costs of full-time RV living is by taking advantage of membership discounts and special rates offered by various RV clubs and organizations.
These memberships can provide significant savings on campground fees, fuel, and even shopping at specific retailers.
Good Sam
The Good Sam Club is one of the largest and most recognized RV clubs in North America. Members benefit from a variety of discounts and special offers. Most notably, Good Sam members can receive up to a 10% discount on rates at thousands of Good Sam-affiliated RV parks and campgrounds. The club also offers savings on fuel at select gas stations and discounts on RV parts and accessories at Camping World stores.
The cost of a Good Sam membership varies depending on the length of membership you choose. A one-year membership costs $29 for one year, $55 for two years, or $79 for three years. Given the range of discounts and benefits, many RV owners find that the membership pays for itself relatively quickly.
Escapees
Escapees RV Club is another popular organization that offers a range of benefits tailored to the needs of full-time and part-time RVers. One of the standout features of an Escapees membership is access to their network of co-op parks and Escapees-owned parks where members can stay at reduced rates, typically between 15% – 50% off.
In addition to campground discounts, members also gain access to a supportive community and a wealth of educational resources to make the RV lifestyle more enjoyable and sustainable.
An Escapees membership costs $49.95 annually for US residents and $59.95 for Canadian and Mexican residents.
Both of these memberships offer a way to make full-time or long-term RV living more affordable and can be a valuable addition to your RV lifestyle budget.
How to Find and Compare Monthly RV Park Rates
We can use several resources to find the monthly rates for RV parks across the country.
Online Directories and Websites
One of the most convenient ways to find RV parks is through online directories and websites dedicated to RV camping. Websites like Campendium, KOA, and Good Sam’s provide listings of RV parks, complete with amenities, reviews, and pricing information. These platforms usually have filters that allow you to sort parks based on your specific requirements, such as location, amenities, and price range.
Online Search
Searching Google for terms like “long-term RV parks near me“, “monthly rv parks near me”, or “year-round campgrounds near me” should return some fairly decent options. I like to use the modifier “long-term” or “monthly” to help identify campgrounds that allow longer stays.
Tip: Replace “near me” with the location of where you would like to stay. For example, “monthly RV parks in Destin, Florida.”
Apps and Tools
There are several mobile apps designed to help RVers find and compare parks. Apps like Allstays and RV Parky provide on-the-go access to park listings and can be particularly useful when you’re already on the road and looking for a place to stay.
Tip: Monthly rates aren’t typically advertised in the app itself, so you may have to click through to the website for monthly rate information. “Favorite” the parks you like with monthly rates so you can easily compare them later.
RV Forums and Social Media Groups
RV forums and social media groups can be a goldmine of information. These platforms allow you to connect with other RVers who have firsthand experience with various parks and can provide insights into monthly rates and what to expect. Websites like iRV2 Forums and Facebook groups are good places to start.
Are Monthly Rates Economical?
Whether monthly RV park rates are economical depends on various factors, including your lifestyle preferences, travel habits, and financial situation.
In this section, we’ll examine the cost-benefit analysis of monthly rates versus daily rates and compare the economics of RV living to traditional renting.
Monthly Rates vs. Daily Rates
Opting for a monthly rate at an RV park usually offers a cost advantage compared to paying daily rates.
For example, a park might charge $50 per day, amounting to $1,500 for a 30-day month. However, the same park might offer a monthly rate of $1,000, resulting in a significant saving.
The longer you commit to staying at a particular RV park, the more economical the monthly rate typically becomes. Many RV parks also offer additional discounts for longer-term stays, such as quarterly or annual rates, which can further reduce your average daily cost.
Is RV Living Cheaper Than Traditional Renting?
The financial comparison between RV living and traditional renting can vary widely based on location, lifestyle, and personal preferences. In some cases, RV living can be more economical. Monthly RV park rates in less expensive areas can be as low as $500, often cheaper than apartment rent in the same regions. Additionally, RV living allows for flexibility; you can move to cheaper locations easily, and utility costs are often lower.
However, it’s important to consider the full range of expenses associated with RV living, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance costs, which can add up. Traditional renting usually provides a more stable cost structure with fewer variable expenses.
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost Monthly to Live in an RV?
The cost to live in an RV park on a monthly basis can vary widely, ranging from as low as $450 to as high as $2,500 or more. Several factors influence this cost, including the type of RV park, its location, and the amenities offered. Additional costs like electricity, water, and other utilities may also apply.
Does Every RV Park Have Monthly Rates?
Not all RV parks offer monthly rates. While many provide this option, especially those catering to long-term residents or “snowbirds,” some parks only offer daily or weekly rates. Parks in highly popular tourist destinations or those with limited space may be less likely to offer monthly rates. Check directly with the RV park to understand their pricing structure.
How Much Does It Cost to Stay in an RV Park for a Month in Florida?
The cost of staying in an RV park for a month in Florida can vary significantly based on the location within the state and the amenities offered. RV parks in tourist-heavy areas like Orlando or the Florida Keys tend to be more expensive, with monthly rates often exceeding $2,000. In contrast, parks in less touristy areas may offer monthly rates as low as $600 to $800. Seasonal variations also affect pricing; rates are generally higher during winter when “snowbirds” flock to Florida to escape colder climates.