---
title: "There’s One Segment of the RV Market Doing Surprisingly Well, Even as We Head Into Fall"
url: "https://camperfaqs.com/theres-one-segment-of-the-rv-market-doing-surprisingly-well"
author: "Tory Jon"
published: "2026-10-08T10:31:21-05:00"
modified: "2026-10-08T10:31:24-05:00"
---

# There’s One Segment of the RV Market Doing Surprisingly Well, Even as We Head Into Fall

The slowdown in new RV sales has left one part of the market looking comparatively healthy: used RVs.

 

Retail figures show pre-owned models outperforming new ones, and a fall report from National Powersport Auctions points to continued demand.

 

For buyers and owners, though, the encouraging news comes with a more complicated picture on prices.

 

## Buyers are still choosing used RVs

 

According to [Statistical Surveys data cited in Camping World’s second-quarter results](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1669779/000110465926088141/cwh-20260729xex99d1.htm), U.S. used-RV registrations rose 2.4% during the first five months of 2026 compared with a year earlier. New-RV registrations fell 16.4%.

 

Camping World saw a similar pattern at its own dealerships during the second quarter. Used unit sales increased while new sales declined.

 

## A lower price point is part of the appeal

 

In its [October pre-owned RV report](https://www.npauctions.com/cp/rv-preowned-report-october26), National Powersport Auctions says shoppers seeking value are turning toward used RVs instead of taking on the larger expense of a new model.

 

NPA also describes ample inventory across several RV categories, with buyers favoring well-maintained units ready for resale.

 

> “The pre-owned segment remains a bright spot.”
> 
>  
> 
> \~ National Powersport Auctions, October 2026 report

 

That assessment comes from an auction company that helps dealers buy and sell inventory. It offers a view of the wholesale market, alongside the earlier retail figures.

 

## Are used RV prices actually rising?

 

NPA reports that average wholesale prices for RVs and campers were 23% above year-ago levels. Its October report cites August market data for that comparison.

 

At the same time, the company says prices have been easing seasonally. Both trends can occur together: prices can fall from their recent levels and still remain above the previous year.

 

The bigger question for readers is how those auction results compare with prices on a dealer’s lot.

 

Camping World sold more used RVs in the second quarter, yet its average used selling price fell 3.6%. The results clearly show sales growing while the average amount paid per RV declined.

 

Meanwhile, [J.D. Power’s second-quarter report](https://www.jdpowervalues.com/article/2026-q2-recreational-vehicle-market-report-rv-values-segment-trends-industry-outlook) found relatively steady travel-trailer values compared with 2025, alongside declines in fifth-wheel and Class A and Class C motorhome values.

 

These reports measure different parts of the market over different periods. An average also reflects the mix of RVs sold, including their age, type, and condition. Applying NPA’s percentage directly to an individual owner’s RV would overstate what the data can tell us.

 

## What this means if you’re buying or selling

 

For buyers, the reports give little reason to assume that every used RV is becoming more expensive. Compare similar models, look closely at condition, and weigh any needed repairs against the asking price.

 

Sellers have encouraging evidence that used RVs still attract buyers. Pricing should still start with comparable units and the RV's condition.

 

My takeaway is that people are still willing to buy an RV, and used models are holding up better as new sales struggle. For anyone buying or selling, the price and condition of comparable RVs will tell you more than these industry numbers.