iPhone pricing depends on which model you want and where you buy it

Apple releases new iPhones most years, usually in September. The base model typically starts between $799 and $899, while larger or Pro versions cost $200 to $400 more. The exact price for this year's models depends on which generation you're looking at — Apple keeps older models in stock at lower prices after releasing new ones, so you have options at different price points.

Prices vary slightly by retailer and by whether you buy outright or through a carrier plan. If you're buying through Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, the upfront cost is often lower because the carrier subsidizes part of the phone in exchange for a contract, but you'll pay more over time through your monthly bill.

Key Takeaways

  • New iPhone base models typically start around $799 to $899 when they launch, with Pro models costing $200 to $400 more depending on storage and features.
  • Older iPhone models drop in price after a new release, so you can save $100 to $300 by buying the previous generation.
  • Carrier plans show a lower upfront price but spread the cost across 24 to 36 months of monthly payments, often adding $15 to $30 per month to your bill.
  • Storage capacity affects price — a 256GB model costs more than 128GB, and the difference varies by model.
  • Refurbished and used iPhones from Apple or certified retailers cost 20 to 40 percent less than new models.

What each iPhone model costs at launch

When Apple releases a new iPhone lineup, it typically includes a standard model and a Pro model. The standard iPhone usually starts at $799 for the base storage option (128GB). The Pro model starts around $999. If you want more storage — 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB — you'll pay $100 to $200 more per step up, depending on the model.

Apple also sells a Plus or Max version of some models, which has a larger screen and costs $100 more than the standard size. So a new iPhone Pro Max with 256GB storage might cost $1,099 or more. These prices are what Apple charges directly; they're the same at Apple's website, in Apple Stores, and through most major retailers like Best Buy.

How carrier plans change the upfront cost

If you buy through Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile on a payment plan, the phone itself costs less upfront — often $0 to $300 depending on the model and any promotions running that month. The catch is that you're paying for the phone over 24 to 36 months as part of your monthly bill, usually adding $25 to $40 per month on top of your regular service charges.

Over the life of the contract, you'll pay the full retail price or more. A $799 phone spread over 36 months at $25 per month costs $900 total. Carrier plans also typically require you to stay with that carrier for the contract period — switching early means paying an early termination fee or the remaining balance on the phone.

Older iPhone models cost significantly less

After Apple releases a new iPhone, it keeps the previous generation in stock at a lower price. An iPhone from the prior year typically drops $100 to $200 in price. For example, when the iPhone 16 launches at $799, the iPhone 15 usually drops to $699 or $649. Two generations back costs even less — you might find an iPhone 14 for $499 to $599.

These older models still receive security updates for several years and perform well for everyday tasks like messaging, calls, photos, and streaming. The main differences are usually camera quality, processing speed, and battery life — not things that matter equally to everyone. If you don't need the absolute latest features, buying last year's model saves real money.

Refurbished and used iPhones offer bigger savings

Apple sells refurbished iPhones on its website at 15 percent off the new price. These phones have been returned, tested, and restored to working condition, and they come with the same one-year warranty as new phones. A refurbished iPhone 15 might cost $599 instead of $699.

Used iPhones from third-party sellers on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Swappa cost 20 to 40 percent less than new, depending on condition and age. A used iPhone 14 in good condition might cost $400 to $500. The trade-off is that used phones from private sellers don't come with a warranty, so you're taking on more risk. Certified refurbished phones from carriers or retailers like Best Buy fall somewhere in the middle — cheaper than new, but with some warranty protection.

Storage capacity and color affect the final price

Every iPhone model comes in multiple storage sizes: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and sometimes 1TB. Each step up costs $100 more. So if the base iPhone 16 is $799 with 128GB, the 256GB version is $899, and the 512GB is $999. Think about how much space you actually use before paying extra — most people don't fill their phones, and you can always delete photos or use cloud storage.

Color doesn't affect price — all colors of the same model and storage size cost the same. Some colors sell out faster or are harder to find used, but Apple charges the same whether you want black, silver, or the latest seasonal shade.

Trade-in programs can lower your actual cost

Apple, carriers, and retailers all offer trade-in programs where you give them your old phone and get a credit toward a new one. The credit depends on the model, age, and condition of your old phone. A working iPhone 14 might get you $300 to $400 in credit, which you subtract from the new phone's price.

Trade-in values vary by where you trade in. Apple's trade-in values are usually in the middle range. Carriers sometimes offer higher credits as promotions to lock you into a new contract. Third-party services like Decluttr or Gazelle often pay less than Apple but give you cash instead of store credit. Compare offers before trading in — the difference can be $50 to $100.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the newest iPhone cost right now?

The newest iPhone typically starts at $799 for the base model when it launches. Pro models start around $999. Prices vary by storage capacity — each step up (128GB to 256GB, for example) adds $100. Check Apple's website or your carrier's site for the current lineup and exact prices, since new models release annually.

Is it cheaper to buy an iPhone outright or through a carrier plan?

Buying outright costs more upfront but less overall. A $799 phone costs $799 immediately. Through a carrier at $25 per month for 36 months, you pay $900 total plus you're locked into that carrier. Outright purchase gives you flexibility to switch carriers without penalties.

How much cheaper is last year's iPhone model?

The previous generation typically costs $100 to $200 less than the new model. An iPhone from two years ago costs $200 to $400 less. Older models still work well for most tasks and receive security updates for years, so the savings can be worth it if you don't need the newest features.

Can I get a discount if I trade in my old phone?

Yes. Apple, carriers, and retailers all offer trade-in credits that reduce the price of a new phone. A working phone from one or two years ago typically gets $200 to $400 in credit. The exact amount depends on the model, age, and condition. Compare offers from Apple, your carrier, and third-party services before trading in.

Are refurbished iPhones worth buying?

Apple's refurbished iPhones are worth considering — they're tested, restored, and come with a one-year warranty, but cost 15 percent less than new. Used phones from private sellers cost more but lack warranty protection. Refurbished phones from Apple or certified retailers offer a middle ground between price and peace of mind.