How Much Does A Racehorse Cost?

Marcus Bazzano
By Marcus Bazzano
How Much Does A Racehorse Cost?

Where To Find Racehorses For Sale

You can find racehorses for sale through online marketplaces like Ocala Breeders' Sales (OBS), Fasig-Tipton, and Keeneland, or by contacting local racing stables, trainers, and breeders in the United States.

How Much Does A Racehorse Cost?

The cost of a racehorse can vary greatly, ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on factors like breeding, age, and racing history.

Are Racehorses Expensive?

Yes, racehorses are considered a significant investment, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 or more for something that doesn't promise a return on investment, making them a costly venture for owners and trainers.

What Is The Average Price For A Racehorse?

The average price for a racehorse is around $20,000 to $50,000, with thoroughbreds typically costing more than quarter horses, and prices increasing for horses with a strong racing history or promising breeding potential.

A Racehorse & Exercise Rider trains in the fog on the main track during morning workouts prior to the 152nd running of the Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park. Photo by Getty Images.

What Is A Racehorse Price In America?

The price of a racehorse in America varies greatly, ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on factors like breeding, age, and racing history. The average cost of buying a racehorse in America is between $20,000 to $50,000.

What Is A Thoroughbred Horse Price?

The price range for a Thoroughbred horse is generally between $50,000 and $300,000. However, this range can vary significantly based on several key factors, including pedigree, age, training level, & racing potential.

How Much Are Kentucky Derby Horses Worth?

The net worth of a Kentucky Derby horse can vary widely, depending on several factors. The highest auction price for a Kentucky Derby winner is $4 million, achieved by Fusaichi Pegasus. The total purse for the race is $5 million, with the winner taking home $3.1 million. 

On average, horses in the Kentucky Derby field have an auction price of around $446,000. Additionally, owners must consider costs such as healthcare, equipment, and food, estimated at around $50,000, as well as transportation and entry fees, which can total up to $822,000 just to get to Churchill Downs.

Fans watch a horse in the paddock ahead of the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Photo by Getty Images.

How Much Does It Cost To Keep A Racehorse?

The annual cost of keeping a racehorse in the United States can range from $30,000 to over $100,000, including expenses such as:

  • Feed and hay: $5,000 to $10,000
  • Veterinary care: $5,000 to $10,000
  • Training and racing expenses: $10,000 to $50,000
  • Boarding and stable fees: $5,000 to $20,000
  • Equipment and supplies: $1,000 to $5,000

How To Buy A Racehorse

To buy a racehorse, follow these steps:

  1. Determine your budget
  2. Research and identify potential horses
  3. Work with a bloodstock agent or trainer
  4. Inspect the horse
  5. Review racing performance
  6. Negotiate the purchase
  7. Conduct pre-purchase testing
  8. Finalize the sale

How Much Does A Champion Racehorse Cost?

The price range for a champion racehorse is generally between $1 million and $20 million, with some horses selling for as high as $70 million.

How Much Was The Most Expensive Race Horse?

The most expensive racehorse sold was Fusaichi Pegasus at $70 million. Here are other high-priced horses:

  • Justify: $60 million
  • Shareef Dancer: $40 million
  • The Green Monkey: $16 million
  • Palloubet d'Halong: $15 million
Justify, ridden by jockey Mike Smith starts to win the 150th running of the Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park. Photo by Getty Images.

How Much Does A Trained Racehorse Cost?

The cost of a trained racehorse in the United States can range from $20,000 to over $200,000, depending on factors such as age, breeding, performance, & training. On average, a trained racehorse can cost around $50,000 to $100,000.

How Much Does It Cost To Insure A Racehorse?

The cost of insuring a racehorse can vary depending on factors such as the horse's value, intended use, and desired coverage. Generally, horse insurance premiums can range from 2% to 4% of the horse's value per year. 

Here are some examples of insurance premiums:

  • Major medical cover: $175 to $300 per year
  • Surgical cover: $100 to $150 per year
  • Full mortality cover: 2.5% to 10% of the horse's value per year
  • Loss of use cover: up to 60% of the horse's value
  • Personal liability cover: $150 to $250 per year

What Was Fusaichi Pegasus Horse Price?

Fusaichi Pegasus, a champion racehorse, was sold to Coolmore Stud in 2000 for over $70 million, a record price at the time. He was purchased as a yearling for $4 million. His stud fee dropped from $150,000 to $7,500 in 2017.

Marcus Bazzano
By Marcus Bazzano

Marcus is a young but experienced sports journalist and content creator, having been in the industry 5+ years. He has written racing specific content for leading racing sites such as RacingBase, Odds and now Fan Odds. Marcus learnt his love for racing from his father, who has owned multiple horses in Marcus' lifetime.