How Much Would A Train Car Cost?
Cost of the cars ranges from $25,000 to more than $800,000, depending on the condition. Renovating and restoring cars at the highest end can cost more than $1 million. To travel, owners pay Amtrak $2.90 per mile, plus additional fees for services.
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!
Today, the typical freight railcar is in the $100,000 to $150,000 range. Overall, there are six basic freight railcar types. But within each railcar type, there are multiple specific design factors. The design options impact each railcar's capital cost.
Railcar economics are as complex as the movement of freight
How much does a old train car cost?
Most will be scrapped, but some will be purchased privately. Typical prices for steel-bodied boxcars and cabooses run between $2,000 and $4,000. Wooden cars, when they can be found, are generally cheaper.
Life Aboard Your Own Caboose: How to Buy a Train Car