25 Most Expensive Horse Breeds (Think in the Millions)

Ever wondered what your dream horse may cost? Here are 25 of the most expensive horse breeds.

These days, you can find your perfect horse in just about any size and color you can imagine. Between hardy crosses and standardized breeds, there is truly something for everyone. Really, when looking, your pocketbook will probably have the most impact on what you end up buying. And the range in price just might be the largest range of anything you will ever buy.

From the adoption fee for an untouched mustang of a few hundred dollars, to the finished show horse priced at $60,000, to the incredibly bred racing prospect that fetches millions, there is definitely a broad range when it comes to a horse breed’s value. While training and breeding affect price the most, there are some breeds that tend to fetch higher prices in general. Here is our list of the 25 most expensive horse breeds, ranked by price range.

25. Miniature Horse

Most Expensive Horse Breeds: Miniature Horse

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Well-balanced miniature version of a full-sized horse

Price range: $2,000-$3,000

Miniature Horse Highlights

Getty Images

Height: Up to 34 inches

Excels at: In-hand showing, driving, therapy

Bottom Line: Miniature Horse

Getty Images

There is nothing cuter than a miniature horse! These small wonders are perfect for driving or in-hand work, or just to have around the property to keep your grass mowed down.

Their prices range widely, but you can get a miniature horse for a couple hundred if you are just looking for a companion horse. If you are looking to get into showing or purchase one that is already driving, prices are usually in the $2,000 to $3,000 range.

24. Shetland Pony

Most Expensive Horse Breeds: Shetland Pony

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Three different body types of the breed range from the older stouter body type (Foundation,) to the more refined Classic, to the ultra-refined Modern type

Price range: $1,000-$8,000

Shetland Pony Highlights

Shetland Pony, One of the Most Expensive Horse Breeds

Getty Images

Height: 7 hands (28 inches) – 11.2 hands (46 inches)

Excels at: Show, driving, in-hand disciplines, dressage, jumping

Bottom Line: Shetland Pony

Getty Images

The Shetland pony is a popular kid’s mount for those children looking to do sport. With their flashy movement, adults love to drive and show them in-hand.

They are a common find at many auctions as well as from private sellers. Prices range from $1,000 for a foal to anywhere from $6,000 to $8,000 for a fully trained Shetland that is “kid safe.”

23. Mustang

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Compact, medium bone, hardy

Price range: Up to $10,000

Mustang Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 16 hands (64 inches)

Excels at: Endurance, western, trail

Bottom Line: Mustang

Getty Images

The mustang has a romantic story and is often bought by the horse owner that is looking for something more: a connection to the wilds and a partnership with a being that once ran free.

The adoption program allows people to purchase a mustang for around $200 to $300. Already-trained mustangs fetch higher prices, however, at around $5,000 to $10,000.

22. Norwegian Fjord Horse

Norwegian Fjord Horse (Expensive Horse Breeds)

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Known for their black and white striped mane

Price range: About $10,000

Norwegian Fjord Horse Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 13 hands (52 inches) – 15.2 hands (62 inches)

Excels at: Pleasure show, trails, lessons, driving, therapy

Bottom Line: Norwegian Fjord Horse

Getty Images

The Norwegian Fjord horse is a rare breed that is loved by those that like the big, drafty pony look. While they may be shorter in stature than a lot of breeds, they have large bones that allow them to do hard work, whether pulling a cart or carrying a rider.

Though not common, you can find a nice Fjord for under $10,000; it can just take a while due to their low numbers.

19. Clydesdale (Tie)

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Large boned, tall, feathered feet

Price range: $10,000+

Clydesdale Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 16 hands (64 inches) – 18 hands (72 inches)

Excels at: Driving, pulling

Bottom Line: Clydesdale

Getty Images

The Clydesdale enjoys fame thanks in large part to the Budweiser team. But as farm sizes diminish, many can’t find a use for larger draft horses, so their prices do not reflect their fame like it does with riding horses.

You can find a nice Clydesdale for around $10,000. Interestingly, sport horse crosses with Clydesdale in them often fetch higher prices.

19. Lipizzaner (Tie)

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Compact, muscular, medium boned

Price range: $10,000+

Lipizzaner Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14.2 hands (58 inches) – 16 hands (64 inches)

Excels at: Dressage, jumping, eventing

Bottom Line: Lipizzaner

Getty Images

The Lipizzaner is a rare breed known for its stunning coat that greys out to almost pure white as it ages. Due to their rarity, they can fetch some pretty good prices, especially if they are highly trained.

You can expect to pay around $10,000 or more for a riding horse, and even more for breeding quality stock and those with proven show records.

19. Missouri Fox Trotter (Tie)

Wikimedia Commons

Physical characteristics: Known for their special gait, the foxtrot

Price range: $10,000+

Missouri Fox Trotter Highlights

EMFTHA

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 16 hands (64 inches)

Excels at: Trail, therapy work, pleasure shows

Bottom Line: Missouri Fox Trotter

TaurusGuy / Getty Images

The Missouri Fox Trotter is loved by many for their smooth gaits and good temperament.

Foals often fetch mid-four figures, while fully trained Missouri Fox Trotters are around $10,000 plus.

17. Appaloosa (Tie)

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Loud coat patterning

Price range: $10,000-$20,000+

Appaloosa Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 16 hands (64 inches)

Excels at: Pleasure shows, cow work, dressage

Bottom Line: Appaloosa

Getty Images

Appaloosas are loved by many for their technicolored coats and athleticism.

While popular, you can find a nice Appaloosa in the $10,000 range. But if you are looking for high-level competition quality, you will quickly find yourself in the $20,000-plus range.

17. Morgan (Tie)

CurtisC Photoography / Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Compact with a short back and an expressive head

Price range: $10,000-$20,000+

Morgan Highlights

BlueandWhiteMorgans.com

Height: 14.1 hands (57 inches) – 15.2 hands (62 inches)

Excels at: Driving, pleasure shows, trails, endurance, therapy

Bottom Line: Morgan

Morgan Horse Auction

The Morgan horse is an American breed known for being an “all around” horse that can do any discipline and be ridden by anybody.

Their prices range, but if you are looking for a well-bred show prospect, young Morgans can be in the low-five figures. However, proven show horses or breeding stock sometimes fetch in the high teens to $20,000 plus.

16. Akhal-Teke

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Long, lean frame with an elegant, high set neck and a coat with a metallic sheen

Price range: $10,000-$25,000+

Akhal-Teke Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14.2 hands (58 inches) – 16 hands (64 inches)

Excels at: Dressage, show jumping, eventing, endurance

Bottom Line: Akhal-Teke

Getty Images

The striking Akhal-Teke is a horse for anyone wanting to get noticed, regardless of what they are doing. You can see the sheen of their metallic-like coat from across a football field.

Foals and adults can be found in the low-five figures, with high-quality breeding stock and those with show records fetching higher prices, $25,000 and up.

14. Andalusian (Tie)

Getty Images

Physical appearance: Compact, strong, medium-boned

Price range: $10,000-$30,000+

Andalusian Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 15 hands (60 inches) and above

Known for: Dressage, driving, jumping

Bottom Line: Andalusian

Getty Images

Andalusians, also called the Pure Spanish Horse (PRE), are elegant animals that do well at a multitude of events.

Like the Friesian, their stunning looks alone attract high prices, so those with training sell for even more. Foals can be in the five figures, and fully trained Andalusians or well-bred stallions go for $30,000 and up.

14. Friesian (Tie)

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Powerful and athletic body, big bones, feathered feet

Price range: $10,000-$30,000+

Friesian Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14.2 hands (58 inches) – 17 hands (68 inches)

Excels at: Dressage, driving

Bottom Line: Friesian

Getty Images

Known even by non-horse people for their repeated use in movies and TV, the Friesian fetches high prices simply on looks alone.

Foals are often in the low-five figures. Trained Friesians or those with proven offspring (breeding stock) easily sell for $30,000 and up. And those with stellar pedigrees and show successes are in the six digits.

13. American Paint Horse

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Most have white markings on their coat

Price range: $4,000-$33,000

American Paint Horse Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 16+ hands (64+ inches)

Excels at: Show, trail, gaming, cow work, lessons

Bottom Line: American Paint Horse

Getty Images

The American paint horse has a wide range of prices, with show stock fetching good money.

While you can get a foal or simply-trained one for under $4,000, those with show records or are of breeding quality can go for much more, like Mark This Rocinante, a gelding that fetched $33,000 at the 2018 Triangle Fall Horse Sale.

12. Gypsy

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Feathered feet, mane and tail

Price range: About $50,000

Gypsy Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 10 hands (40 inches) – 16 hands (64 inches)

Excels at: Show, trails, lessons, dressage, driving, therapy

Bottom Line: Gypsy

Getty Images

The Gypsy cob, sometimes called the Gypsy vanner or Gypsy horse, is a docile, lovable horse that fetches good prices in the United States due to its looks, rarity stateside and temperament.

Foals are usually in the low-five figures, while fully trained riding horses or studs with color and pedigree are often in the mid-five figures. Even well-trained Gypsy crosses fetch good prices at auctions.

11. Holsteiner

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Athletic with arched, high-set necks and powerful hindquarters

Price range: $50,000-$60,000+

Holsteiner Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 16 hands (64 inches) – 17 hands (68 inches)

Excels at: Jumping, driving

Bottom Line: Holsteiner

Getty Images

While you can purchase a Holsteiner foal in the mid-four figures, be prepared to pay handsomely for a fully trained older horse with some showing under its hooves.

Trained Holsteiners go for mid-five figures, up to $60,000 plus.

10. Oldenburg

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Large, powerful frame with high-powered elastic gaits

Price range: $50,000-$230,000

Oldenburg Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 16 hands (64 inches) – 17.2 hands (70 inches)

Excels at: Dressage, jumping

Bottom Line: Oldenburg

Getty Images

The Oldenburg has made its mark in the dressage and jumping world over and over, reflecting their somewhat large price tag. Foals are usually in the low-five figures, with trained, amateur-ready Oldenburgs fetching mid- to high-five figures.

And top performers bring in even more money: In 2018, an Oldenburg sold for about $230,000 at the Oldenburg Horse Center.

9. Trakehner

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Medium, well-crested neck on a long body with sloping shoulders

Price range: $50,000-$312,000

Trakehner Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 15.2 hands (62 inches) – 17 hands (68 inches)

Excels at: Eventing, dressage, jumping

Bottom Line: Trakehner

Getty Images

Anytime the Olympics are involved, there is big money. Trakehners are known for doing well in dressage, jumping and eventing at the Olympic level.

A well-trained show Trakehner will fetch in the mid-five figures. In 2019, a stallion named Kattenau was sold for about $312,000.

8. Standardbred

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Long, lean body with powerful shoulders

Price range: $100,000-$1.1 million

Standardbred Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 17 hands (68 inches)

Excels at: Harness racing, driving, jumping

Bottom Line: Standardbred

Getty Images

Anytime there is potential to win money, those that do so fetch good prices. Standardbreds are known for harness racing, in which their incredible long stride at the trot allows them to cover ground extremely quickly.

Trotting prospects can go for hundreds of thousands. In 2019, a foal by the name of Maverick was sold for $1.1 million.

7. Tennessee Walking Horse

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Long hip and shoulder, with a short back and croup

Price range: $10,000-$1.25 million

Tennessee Walking Horse Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14.3 hands (59 inches) – 17 hands (68 inches)

Excels at: Pleasure shows, trails

Bottom Line: Tennessee Walking Horse

Getty Images

Tennessee walking horses, commonly called walkers, are loved for their smooth gaits and stamina. Today, they are prized by trail enthusiasts as being a comfortable mount for long rides.

In general, you can find a walker for under $10,000 that has been nicely trained. But again, well-trained horses can fetch much more, like RPM, a walker that won the World Grand Championship in 1999 and was sold for $1.25 million.

6. Arabian

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Refined build, with small bones, a short back, arching neck, and a well-sculpted face

Price range: $1,000-$1.6 million

Arabian Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 15.2 hands (62 inches)

Excels at: English, western, endurance

Bottom Line: Arabian

Getty Images

The Arabian horse has a loyal following, which can keep prices for well-trained and well-bred horses high. Though you can get an Arabian for under $1,000 from a rescue or for a bit more as a foal, well-trained Arabians are often in the mid-five figures.

At famous auctions, they can go for even more. A mare sold at the Pride of Poland auction in 2016 for $335,000, and in 2015, a mare sold there for about $1.6 million.

5. Quarter Horse

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Medium boned, athletic, semi-refined head

Price range: $2,000-$2.1 million

Quarter Horse Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 14 hands (56 inches) – 16.2 hands (66 inches)

Excels at: Pleasure shows, gaming, cow work, trails

Bottom Line: Quarter Horse

Getty Images

The quarter horse has a very wide price range. You can find young foals or rescue horses for under $2,000. But if you are looking for quality and training, you can expect to pay handsomely.

Proven quarters horses with show records can easily be $30,000 or more. In 2018, at the Heritage Place Fall Mixed Breeding Stock Sale, a stallion named Moonin The Eagle was bought for $2.1 million.

4. Hanoverian

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Big boned, powerful with large limbs

Price range: $100,000-$3.26 million

Hanoverian Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 16 hands (64 inches) and up

Excels at: Show jumping, dressage, eventing

Bottom Line: Hanoverian

Getty Images

The Hanoverian is a warmblood that has long enjoyed popularity (as well as high price tags!) for its success in dressage, show jumping and eventing.

In 2014, a Hanoverian sold at a German auction for $3.26 million. “Regular” prices for Hanoverians are in the high-five figures, with many entering the six digits with proven show or breeding records.

3. Dutch Warmblood

Beautiful dutch warmblood with perfect hair style

Zuzule / Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Big boned, athletic

Price range: $10,000-$15 million

Dutch Warmblood Highlights

Zuzule / Getty Images

Height: 15 hands (60 inches) and up

Excels at: Eventing, jumping, dressage

Bottom Line: Dutch Warmblood

Getty Images

The Dutch warmblood is a popular horse for those looking to show in some of the world’s most competitive equestrian sports, which means it also fetches hefty price tags.

Even a low-level trained Dutch Warmblood will fetch in the low-five figures, with proven winners priced at $18,000 and up. In 2010, a dressage stallion named Totilas was purchased for around $15 million.

2. Selle Francais

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Tall, well-balanced with a deep chest and sloping shoulder

Price range: $90,000-$15 million

Selle Francais Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 15.1 hands (61 inches) – 17.3 hands (71 inches)

Excels at: Show jumping, dressage, eventing

Bottom Line: Selle Francais

Getty Images

A French sport horse, the Selle Francais can fetch high prices as a well-trained jumper, dressage or eventer.

While foals may be in the low thousands, trained horses can go into the high-five digits. In 2013, Jan Tops (former showjumper) purchased a Selle Francais gelding for over $15 million.

1. Thoroughbred

Getty Images

Physical characteristics: Tall, athletic, refined

Price range: Up to $70 million

Thoroughbred Highlights

Getty Images

Height: 15 hands (60 inches) – 17 hands (68 inches)

Excels at: Racing, jumping, dressage

Bottom Line: Thoroughbred

Thoroughbred racing can earn in the millions

Getty Images

If you follow racing at all, it’s probably no surprise to you that the thoroughbred is the most expensive breed in the world — when you’re talking about well-bred racing stock. Although an adoption fee for an Off The Track Thoroughbred (OTTB) could be as little as $500, many young thoroughbred racing stock sells for millions.

In 2000, Fusaichi Pegasus broke a 1983 record price for a thoroughbred when he was sold at auction for around $70 million.