How Much Does A Railroad Passenger Car Cost?
There currently are about 150 private railcars (also called “varnish”) in good enough shape to be certified to run attached to Amtrak trains in the U.S., according to the American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners. Cost of the cars ranges from $25,000 to more than $800,000, depending on the condition.
Leasing and owning railcars is a serious legal and financial commitment. Enforcement of terms tends to favor the lessor – which may be a bank, a third-party or the railcar manufacturer. Storing excess railcars when there is a downturn in the nation's economy can be expensive as well.
Commentary: The complexity of owning or leasing freight cars
Can you buy old railroad cars?
If you've ever seen a vintage rail car, you have to admit that they're quite captivating. ... As a form of tiny living, you might prefer refurbishing in a rail car over building a tiny house from scratch. Learn how you can turn a deserted train caboose into your dream home!
Caboose for Sale: Yes You Can Live in a Refurbished Train Wagon!
How much does an old railroad car cost?
Typical prices for steel-bodied boxcars and cabooses run between $2,000 and $4,000.
Life Aboard Your Own Caboose: How to Buy a Train Car
How much is a passenger train car?
According to the AAPRCO, you can expect to pay $25,000 or more for a sleeper, $85,000 for a dome car. The refurbishing of such cars can run another $150,000 to $500,000 and way, way more if you choose to upgrade it beyond its original state.
Privately Owned Train Cars -- A Better Way to see America