iPhone prices start at $429 and go up to $1,599, depending on the model and storage size you choose

Apple sells iPhones at different price points based on how new the model is and how much storage it has. The cheapest current option is usually the previous year's base model, while the newest flagship phone costs the most. Storage capacity — 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB — adds $100 to $200 to the price for each step up.

The actual amount you pay depends on three things: which iPhone model you want, how much storage you need, and where you buy it. Carrier stores, Apple's website, and third-party retailers sometimes offer different prices or trade-in deals. If you're trading in an old phone, that can reduce your out-of-pocket cost by $100 to $650.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple's current lineup includes four models at launch, with the base model costing roughly $100 less than the Pro version and $200 less than the Pro Max.
  • Storage capacity increases the price by $100 for each tier: 128GB is the base, then 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
  • Carrier stores often bundle iPhones with phone plans that spread the cost over 24 to 36 months, which changes how much you pay upfront.
  • Trade-in value depends on your phone's model, condition, and age — a two-year-old iPhone in good condition might be worth $200 to $400.

Current iPhone models and their starting prices

Apple typically releases four iPhone models each fall: a base model, a Plus (larger screen), a Pro, and a Pro Max. As of early 2024, the iPhone 15 base model starts at $799, the iPhone 15 Plus at $899, the iPhone 15 Pro at $999, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max at $1,199. These are the prices for 128GB storage on Apple's website.

When a new model launches, the previous year's version usually drops in price. The iPhone 14 dropped to $699 when the iPhone 15 came out. This pattern repeats each year, so if you don't need the absolute newest features, waiting a few months after launch can save you $100 to $200.

Storage capacity adds cost in $100 increments. A 256GB iPhone 15 costs $899, a 512GB costs $999, and a 1TB costs $1,099. Most people use 128GB or 256GB — 512GB and above are mainly for people who store a lot of video or high-resolution photos locally on their phone.

What carriers charge versus Apple's prices

Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and smaller carriers like US Cellular sell iPhones at the same list prices Apple does, but they offer different payment plans. You can pay the full price upfront, or spread it across 24 to 36 monthly payments with no interest. Some carriers also offer bill credits if you trade in an old phone or switch from another carrier.

For example, Verizon might advertise an iPhone 15 for "free" if you trade in a recent model and switch to their network. What that means is the trade-in credit and bill credits over 36 months add up to the phone's full price — you're not getting it free, you're getting the cost covered by credits. Read the fine print to see how long the credits last and what happens if you cancel your service early.

Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart sometimes run sales on iPhones, usually $50 to $150 off the list price, but these are less common than carrier promotions. Refurbished iPhones from Apple (phones that were returned and restored to like-new condition) cost 10 to 15 percent less than new ones and come with the same one-year warranty.

How trade-in value affects your total cost

If you have an old iPhone, you can trade it in to reduce what you pay for a new one. Apple, carriers, and retailers all run trade-in programs. The value depends on the model, storage capacity, and condition — a cracked screen or battery that doesn't hold a charge will lower the offer.

An iPhone 13 in good condition might be worth $400 to $500 toward a new phone. An iPhone 12 might be worth $250 to $350. An iPhone 11 might be worth $150 to $250. These values change based on demand and what Apple is currently offering, so check multiple places before trading in. Apple's trade-in tool on their website will give you an estimate if you answer questions about your phone's condition.

Trade-in credit usually applies immediately if you buy in person at a carrier store or Apple Store, or it's applied as a bill credit if you order online. Some retailers mail you a prepaid shipping label, evaluate your phone after they receive it, and then credit your account — this takes one to two weeks longer.

Costs beyond the phone itself

The phone's price is only part of what you'll spend. A protective case costs $15 to $80 depending on the brand and material. A screen protector costs $10 to $30. AppleCare+, which covers accidental damage and extends your warranty to two years, costs $99 to $199 depending on the model.

If you're buying a phone on a carrier plan, your monthly bill will include the phone payment plus the cost of your data plan. A basic data plan from most carriers costs $50 to $90 per month. Over a 24-month payment plan, that's $1,200 to $2,160 in plan costs on top of the phone itself.

Where to buy and what to watch for

You can buy an iPhone from Apple directly (online or in-store), from a carrier store (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, US Cellular), or from retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Buying directly from Apple or a carrier store means you're getting a new, sealed phone with a full warranty. Buying from a third-party retailer is usually safe, but check the return policy in case something is wrong with the phone.

Avoid buying from marketplace sellers on Amazon or eBay unless you're very confident in the seller's history — counterfeit iPhones exist, and a used phone sold as new is a common scam. If a price seems too low compared to what Apple and carriers are charging, it probably is.

Carrier stores often have promotions that change weekly, so if you're not in a hurry, checking back in a few weeks might save you money. Apple's prices are fixed, but they sometimes offer gift cards or AppleCare+ discounts during holiday shopping seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to buy the newest iPhone model?

No. The previous year's model works just as well for most people and costs $100 to $200 less. The newest model usually has a faster processor and a better camera, but if you don't use your phone for demanding tasks or professional photography, last year's version will serve you fine for several years.

What's the difference between buying from Apple and buying from a carrier?

Apple's prices are the same everywhere, but carriers offer payment plans and trade-in promotions that Apple doesn't. If you want to own the phone outright and don't want a monthly payment, Apple is straightforward. If you want to spread the cost over time or get bill credits, a carrier might save you money.

Is AppleCare+ worth the cost?

AppleCare+ covers accidental damage like drops and water damage, plus extends your warranty from one year to two years. If you tend to damage phones or want peace of mind, it's worth considering. If you're careful with devices and have homeowner's or renter's insurance that covers electronics, you might not need it.

Can I use an older iPhone if I don't want to spend this much?

Yes. Used iPhones from two to four years ago cost $200 to $500 and still receive security updates for several more years. Check the battery health (Settings > Battery > Battery Health) before buying a used phone — a battery below 80 percent capacity will need replacement soon, which costs $50 to $70.

What happens if I buy a phone on a carrier plan and then cancel my service?

You'll still owe the remaining balance on the phone. If you're 12 months into a 24-month plan and cancel, you owe the other 12 months of payments. Some carriers will let you pay off the balance early without a penalty, but check your contract first.