The Economics of Owning a Cessna 172

A brand-new Cessna 172 Skyhawk costs roughly half a million dollars in 2026; the average used one asked about $140,000. We build the full budget of owning one: the loan, hangar or tie-down, insurance, the annual inspection, avionics, 100LL at record prices, the engine reserve and maintenance. Then we compare 50, 100 and 200 hours a year with renting, a flying club, a partnership and a leaseback, and find the exact number of hours where owning and renting cost the same. CHAPTERS 0:00 Half a million dollars 1:11 Who actually buys a 172 2:34 Buying it 6:53 Fixed costs 9:48 Variable costs 11:53 The full year 13:27 Opportunity cost and resale 15:51 The alternatives 19:03 The verdict Prices and rates are 2025-2026 market estimates; your local hangar, insurance, fuel and rental prices will differ. This is not financial or legal advice. Subscribe for the real cost of owning aircraft, line by line. Next: the private helicopter, starting with the Robinson R44. #Cessna172 #GeneralAviation #AircraftOwnership