Rising Tariffs and RV Market Trends: Why RV Renovations Are More Appealing Than Ever

The RV industry is experiencing significant shifts in 2025, with recent tariff implementations creating both challenges and opportunities for RV enthusiasts. For those considering whether to buy a new RV or renovate a used RV (or buy an already-renovated used RV), these economic factors are changing the decision-making landscape in favor of renovation. Let’s explore why RV renovations are becoming an increasingly attractive option in today’s market.

The Impact of Recent Tariffs on New RV Prices

In March 2025, the RV industry faced a major challenge when the Trump administration implemented a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with additional tariffs on steel and aluminum. As noted by industry experts, “high tariffs can have a dramatic impact on the economy resulting in higher prices, stagnating growth, layoffs, and other issues. Those challenges could definitely leak into the RV industry.”

The RV manufacturing process is particularly vulnerable to these tariffs because they affect essential components. Included among items subject to tariffs are “tires, wheels, propane tanks, fabrics, carpet, plywood, refrigerators, appliances and parts, plumbing goods and accessories, and various raw metals” (source) – all critical elements in RV construction.

These tariffs are already beginning to influence the market. According to a March 2025 RV sales report, “Tariffs & Material Costs – Steel & aluminum tariffs are driving up RV costs. The full impact is still unfolding.” Industry analysts predict these cost increases will inevitably be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices for new RVs.

What RV Owners Are Saying: Survey Results

A recent survey of RV enthusiasts reveals some interesting trends regarding renovations in the current economic climate. While the sample size was modest, the results were telling:

• 58% of respondents have already renovated an RV
• 35% haven’t renovated but might in the future
• Most significantly, if prices rise due to tariffs, 88.9% would be more likely to purchase a renovated RV versus only 11.1% who would still buy new

These results suggest a strong preference for renovation over new purchases when economic factors drive up the cost of new RVs. While not scientific, this snapshot aligns with broader industry trends we’re observing.

The Financial Appeal of RV Renovation

The financial argument for renovation is becoming increasingly compelling. New RV prices are expected to increase significantly due to tariff-related cost pressures. In the automotive industry, which faces similar tariff challenges, experts estimate price increases “from between $4,000 to $10,000” for new vehicles. While RVs differ from automobiles, they face similar supply chain challenges and materials cost increases.

By contrast, renovating an older RV offers several financial advantages:

1. Lower initial investment: Used RVs are currently at their lowest prices in years according to market reports, making them an affordable entry point.
2. Value-adding customization: Renovations allow owners to increase the value of their RV while personalizing it to their specific needs and preferences.
3. Phased budgeting: Unlike a new purchase, renovations can be completed in stages according to budget availability.
4. Avoiding depreciation: New RVs typically lose 20-30% of their value within the first few years of ownership.

Beyond Economics: Why So Many RV Enthusthiasts Love Renovating RV’s

While economic factors are driving increased interest in renovations, many RV owners have long embraced RV renovation for reasons beyond just cost savings:

• Personalization: Creating a space that perfectly reflects your style and needs
• Sustainability: Extending the life of existing RVs rather than consuming new resources
• Community: Joining a vibrant community of DIY enthusiasts sharing tips and inspiration
• Satisfaction: Experiencing the pride and accomplishment of a hands-on project
• Quality control: Ensuring work is done to your standards

Market Outlook for 2025 and Beyond

The RV industry is in a period of adjustment. Industry professionals predict “a thawing of the market in the spring of 2025 and an uptick in the summer,” though they note that “there are many factors that could impact that trajectory in either direction.” One of these factors is certainly the evolving tariff situation.

Current market analysis reveals that “Travel Trailers: 245,648 sold (down 5.9%) – Still the most popular choice, but demand is softening” and “Fifth Wheels: 61,318 sold (down 8.1%) – Higher costs make them more sensitive to interest rate changes.” These trends suggest that consumers are already becoming more price-sensitive, which could further boost interest in renovated RVs if new RV prices increase.

Conclusion: The Renovation Renaissance

As tariffs and material costs continue to put pressure on new RV prices, we expect to see a renaissance in RV renovation. For our community of RV enthusiasts, this presents both challenges and opportunities. Those with renovation skills will find themselves well-positioned in this changing market, while newcomers have even more incentive to learn how to renovate an RV.

Is the current state of the U.S. economy causing you to consider renovating an RV rather than buying new? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.