5 Cheap Trucks You Can Buy on a Budget in 2026
It’s not often you hear the words “cheap” and “truck” in the same sentence. Admittedly, shopping for a new truck will set you back further than if you were looking to buy a more compact vehicle like a sedan, but there are still plenty of options available to match your lifestyle and budget.
We set a budget of $35,000 when searching for these trucks and used Kelley Blue Book (KBB) to find each truck’s starting price. Some trucks, depending where you look, may cost a little more or less than what is quoted but all starting price ranges are under $35,000.
Fuel Down: How Much Gas Has Increased in Every State in 2026
Start Saving: 10 Subtly Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money — That You Should Do, Too
We were able to find five trucks ranging from compact to midsize and providing plenty of comfort for their drivers. Ranked from least to most expensive, here are the best trucks to buy on a budget in 2026.
1. 2026 Ford Maverick
Starting price: $29,990
The 2026 Ford Maverick has a reputation for being affordable and on the small side, especially when compared to some of the other trucks mentioned in this roundup.
Its compact nature combined with the inexpensive price tag may be enough of a selling point for urban dwellers. There’s a hybrid powertrain option available for drivers seeking excellent fuel economy, a 4.5-foot bed in the back and a significant amount of storage space and cubbies.
According to Edmunds, the car doors are big enough to fit large water bottles. The only major hiccup is the Maverick has a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, which could be an issue if you need to tow truly heavy objects.
2. 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Starting price: $31,350
Depending where you look, it’s possible to find the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz for a little less than its quoted KBB pricing. Edmunds said the price range starts at $29,750, which technically makes it a little cheaper than the Maverick.
Based on the Hyundai Tucson, the Santa Cruz combines the drivability of an SUV with the functions of a pickup truck. But it is missing some of the key offerings a full-size pickup provides, like a large cargo bed (the Santa Cruz bed only measures at 4 feet).
We also heard incredible things about the turbocharged engine, but it is optional, and could push the Santa Cruz into $40,000+ territory, depending on your trim.
3. 2026 Nissan Frontier
Starting price: $33,895
The 2026 Nissan Frontier is the cheapest midsize truck drivers can shop for this year.
It checks off all the boxes for excellence in off-road capability, comfort and smoothness in every ride, plus its ability to tow up to 7,000 pounds and options in bed lengths that include 5 or 6 feet. Critiques are few and far between, the most persistent of which is Car and Driver’s complaint that it can get cramped in the crew cab.
4. 2026 Toyota Tacoma
Starting price: $34,040
For all your camping, road trip and exploration run needs, there’s no one midsize truck better suited for an adventure quite like the 2026 Toyota Tacoma. It even ranks number one on KBB’s list of the best midsize trucks, and is known for having a great resale value.
Be forewarned: there are lots of trim options available, but the top ones for trails and off-road do cost a lot more.
5. 2026 Chevrolet Colorado
Starting price: $34,495
Behold, the midsize truck that can tow the most weight for under $35,000: the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado.
Its ability to tow up to 7,700 pounds has been described as best in class and the payload capabilities are just as strong at 1,700 pounds. The biggest criticism surrounding the Colorado is its engine, of which there is only one option available no matter what trim you choose.
Pricewise, the Colorado barely makes our $35,000 cutoff, and it’s entirely possible it may cost more in 2027. The 2025 starting price quoted from KBB was $33,595 which shows a $900 increase in the 2026 model. There’s still time to shop for this midsize now before the price potentially increases next year.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
More From MoneyLion: