The Morgan is America’s first breed—versatile, beautiful, and with a personality that wins hearts. Known for their willingness, intelligence, and distinctive look, Morgans excel in nearly every discipline. But how much does a Morgan horse cost?
Quick Answer: Morgan Horse Prices

| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Rescue/Unregistered | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Trail/Pleasure Horse | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Youth/Family Horse | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Amateur Show Quality | $10,000 – $35,000 |
| Open Show Quality | $25,000 – $75,000 |
| Elite Show/Breeding | $50,000 – $150,000+ |
What Makes Morgans Special
Every Morgan traces back to one stallion—Figure (later named Justin Morgan), foaled around 1789. This heritage gives Morgans a remarkable combination:
- Compact, powerful build
- Distinctive head with expressive eyes
- High head and tail carriage
- Exceptional willingness and intelligence
- Versatility across disciplines
- People-oriented personality

Factors Affecting Morgan Prices
1. Bloodlines
Morgan breeding has different types:
Foundation/Traditional:
- Closer to original Morgan type
- Moderate prices, dedicated following
- Often excellent all-around horses
Park/Show:
- Higher action, refined appearance
- Bred for show ring presence
- Premium prices for top bloodlines
Sport Horse:
- Bred for dressage, jumping, eventing
- Growing market
- Moderate to high prices
2. Training Level
- Untrained youngster: $2,500 – $7,000
- Green broke: $5,000 – $12,000
- Well-trained pleasure horse: $8,000 – $20,000
- Show-ready: $15,000 – $50,000+
3. Age
- Foals: $2,000 – $10,000 (depends on breeding)
- Young stock (1-3): $3,000 – $12,000
- Prime age (4-15): Highest prices for trained horses
- Senior (16+): Lower prices, often excellent horses
4. Color
Morgans come in many colors:
- Bay, black, chestnut: Most common, standard pricing
- Palomino: Higher demand, premium prices
- Buckskin/dun: Popular, slight premium
- Gray: Less common, moderate premium
- Sabino/pinto patterns: Premium for flashy markings

Morgan Prices by Discipline
Saddle Seat/Park
Traditional Morgan show discipline:
- Beginner suitable: $5,000 – $15,000
- Amateur competitive: $15,000 – $40,000
- Open competitive: $30,000 – $100,000+
Western
- Trail horse: $3,000 – $10,000
- Western pleasure: $7,500 – $25,000
- Reining prospect: $5,000 – $20,000
English/Sport
- Hunt seat: $5,000 – $20,000
- Dressage prospect: $6,000 – $25,000
- Jumping prospect: $5,000 – $18,000
Driving
Morgans are excellent driving horses:
- Pleasure driving: $5,000 – $15,000
- Combined driving: $10,000 – $30,000
- Show driving: $15,000 – $50,000
Trail/Pleasure
- Basic trail horse: $3,000 – $8,000
- Experienced, calm: $6,000 – $12,000
- Family/youth horse: $7,500 – $15,000
Why Morgans Are Good Value
Morgans often offer more horse for the money:
- Longevity: Many Morgans work well into their 20s and 30s
- Easy keepers: Efficient metabolism means lower feed costs
- Versatility: One horse can do multiple disciplines
- Trainability: Quick learners save training costs
- Hardiness: Generally healthy breed with few issues

Ongoing Costs
Morgans are economical to maintain:
| Expense | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Board | $300 – $1,500 | Standard rates |
| Feed | $100 – $250 | Easy keepers—often need less |
| Farrier | $50 – $200 | Typically good feet |
| Veterinary | $50 – $150 | Generally healthy |
Where to Buy a Morgan
AMHA Breeders
Pros: Registered horses, breed expertise, support
Cons: May have waitlists for desirable bloodlines
Morgan Breed Shows
Pros: See horses in action, wide selection
Cons: Show horses priced accordingly
Private Sales
Pros: Potential value, see horse at home
Cons: Quality varies
Rescues
Pros: Lower prices, rewarding
Cons: May need retraining
Tips for Buying a Morgan
- Know your goals: Different types suit different disciplines
- Research bloodlines: Important in the Morgan world
- Get a pre-purchase exam: Standard for any purchase
- Ride multiple times: See the horse in various situations
- Verify registration: Check with American Morgan Horse Association
- Consider Foundation Morgans: Great all-around horses, often good value
The Bottom Line
Morgan horses range from $3,000 for trail horses to $100,000+ for elite show prospects. For most buyers seeking a versatile partner, a well-trained Morgan suitable for multiple disciplines typically costs $5,000-$15,000. Their exceptional temperament, trainability, and longevity make them excellent value—many owners consider Morgans the best-kept secret in the horse world.
Sources: American Morgan Horse Association, Morgan Horse Magazine, EQUUS Magazine
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