What Are The 10 Cheapest Private Jets In 2025?

Owning a private jet has long been synonymous with luxury, exclusivity, and convenience. However, not all private jets come with an astronomical price tag. Aviation enthusiasts and budding jet owners alike would be pleased to know that there are more affordable options in the market.

Whether you’re an aviation buff curious about the market or someone considering a jet for personal or business use, this guide will provide valuable insights into the most budget-friendly options available today.

It’s worth noting that the price of a private jet depends on several factors, including whether the aircraft is new or pre-owned, its size and performance capabilities, maintenance requirements, and the manufacturer. Used jets often provide significant cost savings but may require more upkeep. On the other hand, newer models tend to feature the latest in avionics, efficiency, and comfort. Now, let’s dive in.

1

Citation CJ1

Price: $2 million

The Citation CJ1 is a classic light jet, offering an excellent balance between performance and cost. Manufactured by Cessna, this model is a favorite among business travelers looking for an affordable and reliable option for short-haul flights. The CJ1 delivers simplicity and efficiency, making it a smart entry point into private aviation.

Its appeal lies in its practical design and solid engineering, providing a hassle-free flying experience for owners and passengers alike. While it doesn’t have the cabin size of larger jets, the CJ1 is perfectly suited for short trips, ensuring speed and convenience. Its low acquisition cost and fuel efficiency make it a standout choice for first-time buyers exploring private jet ownership.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Light jet
• Passenger capacity: 5-6 passengers
• Range: 1,300 nautical miles
• Max speed: 377 knots

According to Avia Jet, a pre-owned model costs between $1 and $2 million, making it one of the cheapest private jets available in the light jet category.

2

Phenom 100

Price: $2 million

The Embraer Phenom 100 is a sleek and efficient very light jet (VLJ) designed for short hops. Its modern cabin, spacious for its class, and outstanding reliability have made it a popular choice among first-time jet owners. The Phenom 100 offers excellent fuel efficiency, which further reduces operating costs.

What sets the Phenom 100 apart is its stylish interior, which incorporates premium materials and a clean design aesthetic. Its Garmin G1000 avionics system enhances safety and ease of operation, making it a favorite among owner-pilots. As a VLJ, the Phenom 100 is ideal for those seeking a balance between affordability and modern comfort in the skies. Today, a used model can be bought for around $2 million, per Stratos Jets.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Very light jet (VLJ)
• Passenger capacity: 4-6 passengers
• Range: 1,178 nautical miles
• Max speed: 390 knots

3

Learjet 60

Price: $2 million

A midsize jet with a legacy of performance, the Learjet 60 is perfect for those who prioritize speed and cabin comfort. It is well-regarded for its ability to climb quickly to cruising altitude, minimizing travel time and optimizing fuel efficiency. Inside, its cabin features ergonomic seating and space for productivity, making it a favorite for business travelers. This combination of reliability and comfort ensures the Learjet 60’s enduring popularity among private aviation enthusiasts.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Midsize jet
• Passenger capacity: 8 passengers
• Range: 2,405 nautical miles
• Max speed: 457 knots

Although older models dominate this price range, the Learjet 60’s durability and strong performance make it a viable choice for enthusiasts or those seeking their first midsize jet. According to Stratos Jets, a Learjet 60 from the 90s can go for less than $1 million, while one from the early 2000s is typically sold for around $2 million. Newer 2010-era jets can cost upwards of $6 million.

4

Eclipse 500

Price: $2 million

Compact yet efficient, the Eclipse 500 is a popular option for budget-conscious jet buyers. Designed for short trips, this VLJ is known for its low acquisition and operating costs. Its size makes it ideal for travelers needing a quick and convenient point-to-point solution.

Despite its compact frame, the Eclipse 500 offers a surprisingly smooth flight experience, thanks to its advanced avionics and streamlined design. The jet is also environmentally friendly, boasting lower emissions compared to larger aircraft. These factors make it an attractive option for buyers seeking value without sacrificing quality. This very light jet sells for $1.5 to $2 million, per Avia Jet.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Very light jet (VLJ)
• Passenger capacity: 4-5 passengers
• Range: 1,125 nautical miles
• Max speed: 370 knots

5

Cirrus Vision SF50 (Vision Jet)

Price: $2.5 million

The Cirrus Vision SF50, often called the Vision Jet, stands out as one of the most innovative private jets on the market. Its single-engine design and modern technology, including the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), make it an appealing option for owner-pilots. The cabin is stylish and compact, catering to small groups and families.

Beyond its safety features, this small but mighty jet offers an unparalleled view of the skies, thanks to its large panoramic windows. It’s designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience, complete with high-end finishes and seating configurations tailored for family or business use – all for under $2.5 million.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Very light jet (VLJ)
• Passenger capacity: 5-7 passengers
• Range: 1,275 nautical miles
• Max speed: 300 knots

6

Eclipse 550

Price: $2.9 million

A step up from the Eclipse 500, the Eclipse 550 offers upgraded avionics and enhanced efficiency. For an additional $900,000 more than its predecessor, this VLJ combines affordability with advanced technology, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize performance and comfort, per Avia Jet.

Its dual-engine design improves reliability while maintaining the cost-effective features of its predecessor. The Eclipse 550 also boasts advanced auto-throttle and anti-skid systems, providing a seamless flying experience. Its quiet cabin ensures passengers can relax during short to mid-range trips.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Very light jet (VLJ)
• Passenger capacity: 4-5 passengers
• Range: 1,125 nautical miles
• Max speed: 375 knots

7

Hawker 400XP

Price: $3 million

The Hawker 400XP is a light jet with a reputation for comfort and speed. Its spacious cabin and solid range make it a versatile option for business travelers or small groups. The jet is particularly well-suited for regional travel. One of its standout features is the flat-floor cabin design, which enhances passenger comfort on longer flights.

The Hawker 400XP also boasts impressive climb rates, allowing it to reach cruising altitudes quickly. This, combined with its reliability, makes it a favorite in the light jet category. $3 million can get you a used Hawker 400XO, per Stratos Jets.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Light jet
• Passenger capacity: 7-8 passengers
• Range: 1,600 nautical miles
• Max speed: 450 knots

8

Cessna Citation Mustang

Price: $3 million

The Citation Mustang is another light jet that has earned its place among the most affordable options. It offers a well-rounded combination of comfort, performance, and efficiency, making it a favorite among owner-pilots and small business operators.

Its state-of-the-art Garmin G1000 cockpit is user-friendly and packed with advanced navigation tools, ensuring a safe and stress-free flight. The Citation Mustang’s fuel efficiency and dependable design make it a popular choice for short-haul regional flights.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Very light jet (VLJ)
• Passenger capacity: 4-6 passengers
• Range: 1,200 nautical miles
• Max speed: 340 knots

According to Avia Jet, you can get a brand new Citation Mustang for around $2.5 to $3 million – while an older 2006 model costs just $1.25 million, per AvBuyer.

9

Pilatus PC-12

Price: $4 million

Though technically a turboprop, the Pilatus PC-12 often competes with jets due to its outstanding range and versatility. It’s a robust and reliable aircraft, ideal for both business and leisure travel. Its ability to land on short and unpaved runways sets it apart from many of its jet competitors.

The cabin design emphasizes comfort and utility, accommodating passengers with luxurious seating and ample storage. Its efficiency and operational flexibility make it a favorite for destinations that are difficult to access with traditional jets.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Turboprop
• Passenger capacity: 6-8 passengers
• Range: 1,845 nautical miles
• Max speed: 290 knots

10

HondaJet Elite II

Price: $5 million

The HondaJet Elite II is a standout in the light jet category, offering cutting-edge technology, remarkable efficiency, and luxurious interiors. It’s one of the more expensive options on this list, but its performance and innovative design justify the investment.

Its advanced Over-The-Wing Engine Mount design improves fuel efficiency and reduces cabin noise, creating a more enjoyable flight experience. With its impressive range and speed, the HondaJet Elite II is perfect for regional and some transcontinental flights.

Key characteristics:

• Type: Light jet
• Passenger capacity: 6 passengers
• Range: 1,547 nautical miles
• Max speed: 422 knots

While not exactly the cheapest – although still under $5 million – Avia Jet reports that pre-owned models are becoming increasingly available for less than $4 million.

Conclusion

The private jet market in 2025 offers a range of options for aviation enthusiasts and aspiring owners, proving that luxury air travel doesn’t always have to break the bank. From the compact and efficient Eclipse 500 to the versatile Pilatus PC-12, each aircraft brings unique strengths to the table, catering to various travel needs and preferences.

Whether you’re drawn to the innovative design of the Cirrus Vision SF50 or the timeless performance of the Learjet 60, these jets provide an entry point into the exclusive world of private aviation. While most of us may never own a private jet, understanding what these aircraft offer and why they stand out is an exciting exploration into the possibilities of the skies.