Living full-time in an RV in Southern Utah can be a dream come true for many, offering a unique blend of freedom, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re considering making this lifestyle change, you’re likely drawn to the region’s stunning landscapes, from the majestic Zion National Park to the serene Goblin Valley State Park. Southern Utah, with its dark sky preserves and picturesque cities provides an ideal backdrop for your full-time RV living experience. However, before you set off on this journey, it’s essential to understand the costs involved in maintaining this lifestyle.
Whether you’re planning to stay in an RV park like the Country Rose, which offers full-hookup sites and extra comforts, knowing the expenses will help you budget smarter. This guide will explore into the various costs associated with living full-time in an RV in Utah, covering everything from initial setup and RV costs to monthly living expenses and maintenance.
Initial Setup and RV Costs
Purchasing an RV
When considering living full-time in an RV in Utah, one of the most significant initial costs you’ll face is the purchase of the RV itself. The prices of new RVs can vary widely, ranging from $14,000 for a basic towable RV to over $750,000 for a luxury motorhome. For those looking at towable RVs, prices start at around $14,000 and can go up to $150,000, depending on the size, features, and quality of the RV.
Motorhomes, on the other hand, are more expensive, with prices starting at $80,000 and extending well beyond $750,000 for high-end models. It’s also important to consider the specific needs of full-time living when selecting an RV.
You may want to look for models that are designed for year-round use, have ample storage, and include essential amenities such as full hookups, appliances, and comfortable living spaces.
Essential Gear and Modifications
Beyond the initial purchase of the RV, there are several other costs to consider to ensure your vehicle is equipped for full-time living. Essential gear includes items such as solar panels, water tanks, and generators, especially if you plan to boondock or stay in areas without full hookups.
Modifications to enhance comfort and functionality are also common. These can include upgrades to the interior, such as better insulation, additional storage solutions, and improvements to the electrical and plumbing systems. Additionally, you might want to invest in exterior accessories like awnings, outdoor kitchens, or even a tow vehicle if your RV is not self-propelled.
The cost of these gear and modifications can add up quickly, but they are essential for making your RV a comfortable and self-sufficient home. It’s a good idea to budget an additional $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the extent of the upgrades and the quality of the gear you choose. Understanding these initial setup costs will help you prepare financially and ensure that your transition to full-time RV living in Utah is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Monthly Living Expenses
Campsite Fees
Campsite fees are one of the most significant monthly expenses for full-time RV living in Utah. The cost can vary widely depending on the type of campground, the amenities provided, and the location.
For instance, you can find campsites for as low as $37 per night, while luxury RV parks can charge up to $150 per night or more. If you opt for a monthly stay, the costs can be more predictable.
For example, some RV parks in Utah might charge around $700 to $1,085 per month for a full-hookup site, which includes access to amenities like pools, hot tubs, and laundry facilities. It’s also worth considering that some campgrounds, especially those within national parks like Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, may have different pricing structures and availability.
Additionally, free camping options on BLM land or other public areas are available, but these typically require dry camping or boondocking, which means you’ll need to manage your water and power resources carefully.
Utilities and Connectivity
Utilities and connectivity costs are another key aspect of your monthly expenses. When living in an RV, you’ll need to account for utilities such as water, electricity, and propane, especially if you’re staying in campsites with full hookups. For those who prefer to boondock, investing in solar panels and a generator can help offset utility costs in the long run, although there is an initial investment required.
On average, utility costs can range from $100 to $300 per month, depending on your usage and the efficiency of your RV’s systems. Connectivity is also essential for many full-time RVers, whether for work, staying in touch with family, or accessing important information.
Cell phone plans, internet services, and streaming subscriptions can add up to around $160 to $300 per month. Ensuring reliable and affordable connectivity is key to maintaining a comfortable and connected lifestyle on the road.
By understanding and budgeting for these monthly expenses, you can better manage your finances and enjoy the freedom and adventure that full-time RV living in Utah has to offer.
Maintenance and Unexpected Costs
Regular Maintenance
Maintenance is a critical aspect of full-time RV living, as it helps prevent costly repairs and ensures your RV remains in good condition. Regular maintenance tasks include oil changes, brake replacements, and tire checks.
It is essential to stay on top of these tasks to avoid being stranded or facing expensive repairs down the road. For instance, monitoring tire pressure and condition can prevent blowouts and other tire-related issues.
Investing in a good tire pressure monitoring system and air compressor can be highly beneficial. Additionally, keeping up with routine maintenance such as oil changes and brake replacements for both your RV and tow vehicle can save you from significant mechanic charges. Many full-time RVers budget around $200 to $300 per month for maintenance, which can help spread out the costs over the year.
Emergency Funds
Despite the best maintenance practices, unexpected repairs and expenses are inevitable when living full-time in an RV. It is important to have an emergency fund in place to cover these unexpected costs.
For example, unexpected repairs such as replacing slide toppers due to hail damage or refurbishing a water heater can be costly. One couple reported spending $16,373 over four years on maintenance and repairs, with some years seeing much higher expenses than others.
Having a reserve fund of around $5,000 is highly recommended to cover these unexpected expenses. Additionally, considering an RV service contract or extended warranty can help mitigate some of these costs, as it did for the couple who saved $3,120 through their service contract.
By preparing financially for these unexpected costs, you can reduce the stress and financial burden associated with maintaining your RV, allowing you to enjoy the freedom and adventure of full-time RV living in Utah without undue worry.
Conclusion
Living full-time in an RV in Utah can be a rewarding and adventurous lifestyle, but it requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. Remember to research and comply with local zoning laws and trailer towing regulations to ensure you can park your RV legally. Budgeting for the initial setup, including the purchase of an RV and essential gear, as well as ongoing monthly expenses like campsite fees and utilities, is important.
Regular maintenance and having an emergency fund will help you navigate unexpected costs. By understanding these key aspects, you can embark on this lifestyle with confidence and enjoy the beauty and freedom that Utah has to offer.
FAQ
How do fuel costs impact the overall monthly expenses of full-time RV living in Utah?
Fuel costs for full-time RV living in Utah can range from approximately $300 to $700 per month, depending on the frequency of travel and the RV’s fuel efficiency. More frequent travel increases these costs, while staying in one place reduces them.
What are the typical monthly payments for RV loans or rentals, and how do they factor into the total cost of RV living?
Typical monthly RV loan payments range from $713 to $1,500, depending on the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment term. For example, a $50,000 RV loan with a 10-year term and good credit could result in a $713 monthly payment . The total cost includes the loan amount, total interest paid (e.g., $29,635.52 on a $65,000 loan), and additional costs like insurance ($594 to $1,052 annually) and potential tax deductions.
What are the differences in costs between luxury RV parks, budget-friendly parks, and free dispersed camping options in Utah?
In Utah, luxury RV parks offer full amenities like hookups, WiFi, pools, and laundry, with costs often ranging from $90 + per night. Budget-friendly parks may provide basic amenities like water and electric hookups, costing between $37 + per night.
Free dispersed camping on BLM or national forest lands typically offers no amenities but is free, though users must be self-sufficient.
