How Much Does a Snow Blower Cost? Compare Prices & Budget Wisely

Snow blowers are essential tools for clearing snow from driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor areas during winter. But before you make a purchase, it's crucial to understand the cost associated with snow blowers.

After conducting our research, we found that the typical price for a snow blower hovers around $285 - $1,600. When beginning your quest for a blower, expect to allocate a minimum of a few hundred dollars. However, keep in mind that the price may fluctuate depending on the tasks you intend to undertake.

In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the true price range of snow blowers, providing you with the necessary insights to budget wisely and find the perfect snow blower that meets your needs.

How Much Does a Good Snow Blower Cost?

The typical price for a residential snow blower hovers around $950, falling within the range of $285 to $1,600 for most models. However, for those seeking budget-friendly options, corded electric models can be as low as $130. On the other hand, for those in pursuit of top-of-the-line performance, gas-powered three-stage models can reach as high as $3,700.

If you happen to be a resident of the lower northeast, parts of the pacific northwest, or California, you're quite familiar with the regular occurrence of snowfall during winter. However, it's rather rare for these regions to witness heavy snow dumps exceeding a few inches.

Occasionally, a winter storm may surprise you with over 8 inches of snow, but such instances are limited to once or twice a season. In light of this, it would be wise to opt for a smaller and possibly electric snowblower priced below the average of $400.

Conversely, if your home is located in the midwest, New England, or mountain west, you must face the reality of dealing with heavier snowfall. In these areas, a more robust snowblower is an essential tool for the job, typically powered by gas.

If you're searching for a versatile snowblower capable of handling any situation, be prepared to allocate a budget exceeding $600. However, if you're content with a heavy-duty snowblower minus the additional features, you can expect to spend anywhere between $285 and $1,600.

Cost By Type of Snow Blower

Snow blower manufacturers categorize their products based on the number of stages. As the stages increase, so does the price, as higher-stage models tend to be larger, more robust, and packed with additional features.

1. Cost of Single-Stage Snow Blowers

Single-stage models, which are the most affordable, typically range in price from $200 to $725. These machines are ideal for clearing snow in smaller to medium-sized paved areas with snow depths of up to 12 inches.

Operating in a single fluid movement, these models employ a rotating auger to gather the snow and propel it through a discharge chute. Due to their snow-throwing mechanism instead of blowing, they are often referred to as snow throwers.

2. Cost of Two-Stage Snow Blowers

In terms of cost, two-stage models fall within the range of $750 to $2,150. They are specifically designed for clearing snow in medium to large-sized areas that receive 1 to 2 feet of snow accumulation.

The operation of two-stage snow blowers involves a two-step process. Initially, an auger is used to scoop up the snow, which is then passed on to an impeller. In the second step, the impeller forcefully blows the snow through the discharge chute.

3. Cost of Three-Stage Snow Blowers

Residential three-stage blowers, available only in gas-powered variants, come at a higher price range of $1,500 to $2,500. While they may be considered excessive for most homeowners, they prove invaluable to others. Especially for those residing in regions with significant snowfall and large areas to clear.

The functionality of three-stage blowers is similar to that of two-stage models, with the addition of a second auger that enhances the speed of snow removal. This supplementary auger, often referred to as an accelerator auger, enables the task to be completed up to 50% faster.

Snow Blower Cost By Power Source

There are three power options for snow blowers: gas-powered, battery-powered, and corded electric. Among these, corded electric models are the most economical, while gas-powered ones are the priciest.

1. Corded Electric Snow Blowers

Among the available options, corded electric snow blowers offer the lowest price point. Typically ranging from $150 to $250, these models are exclusively found in the single-stage category.

Here is a typical specs table for corded electric snow blowers:

Opting for a corded snow blower can yield significant savings, especially for smaller areas like patios or walkways. However, it's essential to have a nearby power outlet, and these models typically handle up to 8 to 12 inches of snow.

It's worth considering the additional costs associated with corded electric models. Pay attention to the length of the included extension cord, typically ranging from 50 to 150 feet. If one isn't provided or is insufficient, you may need to purchase an extra cord.

Here's a quick overview of the pros and cons of corded electric snow blowers:

2. Battery-Powered Snow Blowers

Battery-powered snow blowers, offered in single-stage and two-stage models, generally range in price from $300 to $1,800. Many homeowners favor cordless snow blowers for their superior power and unrestricted mobility.

Take a look at the following table for an overview of the typical specs and price ranges for single-stage and two-stage battery-powered snow blowers:

When considering the additional costs associated with a battery-powered snow blower, several factors come into play:

• Runtime: Snow blowers that can operate for longer periods usually come with a higher price tag. On average, a snow blower offering an hour or more of runtime costs around $1,000. It's important to note that batteries with higher amp-hours (Ah) provide extended runtime.
• Batteries: The cost of snow blower batteries typically ranges from $60 to $350. It's essential to factor in the price of replacement batteries and check whether any are included with the snow blower.
• Charger: Battery chargers, which are necessary for recharging the snow blower's batteries, usually cost between $60 and $200. It's advisable to confirm whether a charger is included with the purchase.
• Brushless motor: Opting for a battery-powered snow blower equipped with a brushless motor offers advantages. These motors offer higher efficiency, resulting in reduced maintenance requirements. Additionally, they provide improved performance and longevity.

To weigh the pros and cons effectively, refer to the following table:

3. Gas-Powered Snow Blowers

Gas-powered snow blowers, although pricier, offer unmatched power, making them ideal for efficiently clearing vast areas covered in deep snow. Their prices range from $500 to $2,000, attracting homeowners with over 1,800 square feet to clear. Considering that three-stage snow blowers exclusively operate on gas, they are the preferred choice for such homeowners.

Refer to the table provided for a comprehensive overview of gas-powered snow blowers, including their cost and specifications based on the number of stages.

When it comes to three-stage models, they share similar specifications to high-end two-stage gas snow blowers, but with the added advantage of an accelerator auger.

This unique feature allows the three-stage models to complete the task at hand much more swiftly. Moreover, these models are often packed with an array of additional features, providing added value for users.

If you have your sights set on a gas-powered snow blower, it's essential to be prepared for the following additional costs:

• Self-propelled gas snow blowers tend to come with a price tag that is approximately 60% higher compared to other models. This is primarily due to the need for self-propulsion to handle the weight of gas-powered blowers effectively.
• The operating cost of a gas blower is subject to fluctuation based on the price of gas in your area.
• Maintenance costs associated with gas models are generally higher compared to electric snow blowers.
• Gas-powered blowers that feature electric start buttons offer the convenience of easier starting, reducing the effort required to get them up and running.

For a comprehensive overview of the advantages and disadvantages of gas-powered snow blowers, please refer to the table provided below:

Snowblower Brands and Their Average Costs

After thorough research, we discovered that Briggs and Stratton is the brand with the highest price range for snowblowers. On the other end of the spectrum, Greenworks offers more affordable options.

The reason behind Greenworks' lower prices is their extensive range of electric models, which are less potent and less expensive compared to gas-powered alternatives. Conversely, the majority of Briggs and Stratton models rely on gas power.

Factors to Consider When Budgeting for a Snow Blower

When budgeting for a snow blower, it's important to take into account various factors that can influence the overall cost. While the initial purchase price is a significant consideration, there are additional costs to factor in when making your decision.

1. Brand

The brand of the snow blower can have a significant impact on its price. Some well-known brands may come with a higher price tag due to their reputation for quality and reliability. However, lesser-known brands can offer similar performance at a more affordable price.

2. Capability

The capabilities of a snow blower are crucial when determining its price. Several factors contribute to its capabilities, including:

• Clearing Depth: The clearing depth refers to the amount of snow the blower can handle at once. Snow blowers with higher clearing depths are generally more expensive but can handle heavier snowfall more efficiently.
• Clearing Width: The clearing width indicates the width of the path the snow blower can clear in a single pass. Wider clearing widths allow for quicker snow removal but may come at a higher cost.
• Auger Material: The material used for the auger, which scoops up the snow, can affect the price. Heavy-duty materials like steel or reinforced rubber are more durable but may increase the cost of the snow blower.
• Plowing Capacity: The plowing capacity of a snow blower refers to how quickly it can clear a specific area. Higher plowing capacities often come with a higher price, but they can help save time and effort during large snow removal tasks.
• Max Throwing Distance: The maximum throwing distance determines how far the snow blower can throw the snow it clears. Snow blowers with a longer throwing distance tend to be more expensive, but this feature can be crucial for effectively clearing large areas.

3. Durability

Investing in a durable snow blower can save you money in the long run. Consider the following factors when evaluating durability:

• Warranty: Ensure that you carefully examine the warranty provided by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide peace of mind and potentially cover repairs or replacements.
• Weather-Resistant Steel and Composite: Snow blowers constructed with weather-resistant steel or composite materials tend to be more durable and can withstand harsh winter conditions, but they might come at a higher cost.
• Heavy-Duty Gearbox: A heavy-duty gearbox is essential for transferring power efficiently. Snow blowers with stronger gearboxes are generally more expensive but can handle heavy loads and prolonged use.

4. Additional Features

Snow blowers often come with additional features that can enhance their functionality and convenience. Consider the following features:

• LED Headlights: LED headlights can improve visibility when operating the snow blower in low-light conditions. However, they may add to the overall cost of the machine.
• Heated Handle: A heated handle can provide comfort during extended snow removal sessions. This feature is worth considering if you live in an area with extremely cold temperatures, but it can increase the price.
• Joystick Chute Control: A joystick chute control allows you to easily adjust the direction and angle of the snow discharge chute. While it offers convenience, it may come at an additional cost.
• Power Steering: Power steering makes maneuvering the snow blower easier, especially in heavy or densely packed snow. Snow blowers equipped with power steering tend to be more expensive.
• Push-Button Controls: Some snow blowers offer push-button controls for starting and stopping the machine, which can be more convenient than pull-start mechanisms. However, this feature may increase the price.

5. Location

The geographic location you reside in can have a significant impact on the price of a snow blower, as outlined below:

• Climate: If you live in an area known for its harsh winters, anticipate higher snow blower costs. Severe cold temperatures and heavy snowfall necessitate the use of more expensive and robust machinery.
• Operating Cost: The expense of running a snow blower depends on the local price of electricity or gas. Be aware of the ongoing operating costs associated with your chosen power source.
• Shipping Cost: The distance a snow blower must travel to reach your location affects the shipping cost. As the shipping distance increases, so does the expense of transporting the snow blower to you.

Tips to Choose the Right Snow Blower for Your Needs and Budget

To set a realistic budget for a snow blower, it's essential to assess your personal needs and preferences. Consider the following tips:

1. Evaluate Your Snowfall Conditions

Analyze the average snowfall in your area to determine the appropriate clearing depth and clearing width needed for efficient snow removal.

2. Assess the Size of Your Property

The size of your property will influence the plowing capacity and throwing distance requirements. Larger properties may require a more powerful and larger snow blower, which could affect the budget.

3. Prioritize Essential Features

Identify the features that are crucial for your snow clearing needs and prioritize them accordingly. This way, you can allocate your budget to the most important aspects.

4. Research and Compare Prices

Research different brands and models, and compare prices to find the best balance between cost and desired features. Don't forget to read reviews to gauge the reliability and performance of the snow blowers you are considering.

5. Consider Long-Term Costs

While a higher upfront cost might be a deterrent, investing in a durable and reliable snow blower can save you money in the long run. Assess the maintenance and repair costs associated with each model to make an informed decision.

Snow Removal Services: Professional Cost Vs. DIY Cost

After understanding the cost of a snow blower, you might be curious about the expense of hiring professional snow removal services. Typically, professional snow removal ranges from $50 to $140 per visit.

If you have a large area to manage in an area prone to heavy snowfall, expect to pay above the average rate. Conversely, homeowners in southern states with smaller driveways can anticipate lower costs.

Now, the question arises: is a snow blower worth it? In general, if your region receives more than 20 inches of snow annually, a snow blower is a cost-effective option compared to hiring professionals. However, if you reside in an area with less than 20 inches of snowfall, relying on a professional is more advantageous.

It's important to consider that purchasing a snow blower is a significant investment. Not only does it require upfront costs, but it also demands storage and regular maintenance to keep it in optimal condition.

Our Top Picks Snow Blowers

While working on this article, we came across some best snow blowers that impressed us the most. If we were in the market for a snow blower, these are the models we would personally opt for.