Related News: Commercial Fleet Sales Still Lead Sectors Despite May Mini Dip Used Vehicle Prices Climb Higher As Sales Pace Slows The higher prices at used retail reflect strong wholesale values earlier in the spring, particularly for older, more affordable vehicles. - Consumers might expect continued high prices for used vehicles, particularly for more budget-friendly models, due to strong previous wholesale values. - The sales pace for used vehicles is slowing despite rising prices. *Summarized by AI Average used vehicle listing prices rose for the third consecutive month in May, reaching $26,918, the highest since mid-2023 and up 6% year over year, according to Cox Automotive’s analysis of vAuto Live Market View data released June 12. Meanwhile, used-vehicle inventory increased in May as the retail sales pace slowed. While list prices increased across all segments, age groups, and price tiers, the overall increase was driven primarily by a shift in what was selling. Both vehicle inventory and sales priced under $20,000 declined in April, while sales of higher-priced units grew. Near-new SUVs are posting the largest gains. The top five sellers of the month had an average price of $25,043, about 7% below the average listing price for all used vehicles sold. The higher prices at used retail right now reflect strong wholesale values earlier in the spring, particularly for older, more affordable vehicles. Auction prices – an important source of used-vehicle inventory – ran well above year-ago levels earlier in 2026 and have held, carrying through to retail and helping explain the sustained gains. Price-conscious buyers continue to face limited options in the used-vehicle market, with inventory in the lowest-priced segments remaining scarce. Vehicles priced under $15,000 carried 33 days’ supply in May, 12 days below the overall market average of 45. Used Vehicles Supply and Sales Combined franchised