How Much Does a Skateboard Cost? (2026)
Skateboards range from toy-store boards to custom pro setups. Here's what drives the cost, where your money goes and where it's worth spending.
What Determines the Cost
A skateboard's cost depends on who made it, what it's made of and whether it's a complete or a custom build. Prices change often and differ by retailer, so check current listings; this guide explains what you're paying for so you can judge value.
Three Tiers of Skateboards
| Tier | What You Get | Who It Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Toy-store boards | Generic decks, basic or plastic parts | Very young kids playing, not learning tricks |
| Skate-brand completes | Maple deck and real skate trucks, wheels and bearings, pre-assembled | Beginners and most skaters |
| Custom builds | Every part chosen individually | Skaters who know what they like |
Where the Money Goes in a Custom Build
| Part | Cost Share | Worth Spending On? |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | One of the largest parts | Yes, quality maple from a skate brand |
| Trucks | Often the largest | Yes, they last for years |
| Wheels | Moderate | Yes, for your terrain |
| Bearings | Low to moderate | Mid-range is fine |
| Grip tape and hardware | Low | Basic is fine |
Good-Value Completes
CCS Complete Skateboard
An affordable complete with a maple deck and standard skate components, in many widths.
Check Price on AmazonElement Popsicle Complete
A ready-to-ride complete from a long-running skate brand.
Check Price on AmazonSanta Cruz Complete
A ready-to-ride complete from one of the oldest skateboard brands.
Check Price on AmazonHidden Costs
- Helmet and pads: budget for them up front.
- Skate shoes: they wear out faster than regular sneakers.
- Replacement decks: trick skaters replace decks most often.
- Tools: a skate tool is a must; see skateboard tools.
Ways to Save
- Start with a skate-brand complete instead of a custom build.
- Keep your trucks when you replace a deck.
- Look for blank decks for a cheaper deck option.
- Keep bearings clean and dry so they last.
Choosing your board? See beginner skateboards, skateboard decks and how to build a skateboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap skateboards worth it?
Very cheap toy-store boards often have poor bearings, plastic trucks and weak decks that make learning harder. A skate-brand complete is usually worth it.
Is it cheaper to buy a complete or build a skateboard?
Completes usually cost less. Custom builds cost more but let you choose every part.
Which part of a skateboard is most worth spending on?
Decks and trucks from reputable skate brands, then decent wheels and bearings.
How much do skateboard parts cost?
It varies by brand and retailer. Check current listings; decks and trucks are usually the biggest costs in a custom build.
Do longboards cost more?
Often, because of larger decks and bigger wheels, but prices overlap.