Are Mares or Geldings More Expensive? Here’s What the Market Says in 2025

If you’ve been shopping for a horse (or trying to sell one), you’ve probably noticed something:
People have strong opinions about mares and geldings.

Some swear by mares—say they’ve got grit and heart.
Others won’t ride anything but a gelding—say they’re easier and more reliable.

But when it comes to price?
Are mares or geldings more expensive?

Let’s saddle up and take a look at what the 2025 market says.

First, What’s the Difference?

Just to be clear:

• Mares are female horses. They can be used for breeding. Some get a little “opinionated” when they’re in heat.

• Geldings are male horses that have been castrated. They can’t breed. They’re often more even-tempered.

In short?
Mares can be a little moodier. Geldings can be a little duller.
But both can be great horses—or not. It depends on the horse.

How do you feel about it so far? Got a favorite already?

Now let’s talk money.

What’s the Price Difference in 2025?

Here’s what we’re seeing on horse sales platforms like MyHorseForSale.com and others:

Yep, you read that right.
Geldings usually cost more.

But why?

Why Do Geldings Usually Cost More?

There are a few reasons. Let’s walk through them:

1. Temperament

Buyers (especially beginners) want steady. Calm. Predictable.

And while many mares are sweet as pie, they can also have off days when they’re in heat. Geldings?
Well, once they’re gelded, most just want food and a nap.

That mellow vibe often means geldings sell faster—and for more.

2. Easier to Resell

Let’s be honest—if you buy a gelding and it doesn’t work out, it’s easier to sell again.

A lot of buyers skip over mare ads altogether. Not because they’re bad horses, but because they’ve “heard things.”
Kind of unfair, but that’s how the market rolls.

So when folks are shopping, they’re willing to pay a little extra for a horse they know will be easier to sell down the road.

3. Less Drama in the Herd

On big ranches or lesson barns, geldings tend to cause less fuss.

Mares can get bossy in a group, and during breeding season, things can get wild.

If you’re buying for a stable or a beginner rider?
Most folks lean toward geldings, even if it means spending a few hundred dollars more.

But Don’t Count Mares Out

Now hold your horses—we’re not saying mares aren’t worth it.

In fact, some of the best horses I’ve ever ridden were mares. Brave. Sharp. Loyal as the day is long.

And if you find a mare with training, good manners, and a calm brain?
You might get her for less than a gelding with the same skills. That’s a win.

Think about it—do you want to save money and put in a little extra work? Or spend more for a horse that’s a little more laid-back out the gate?

Does Breed or Discipline Matter?

You bet.

• In Western disciplines, geldings tend to be favored. Ranch horses, ropers, trail riders—they all like those steady-eddy geldings.

• In English disciplines, mares are more common. Some breeds (like Warmbloods) show very little price difference by gender.

In fact, when it comes to breeding potential?
Mares can sell for more. Especially if they have strong bloodlines or show records.

So yeah—context matters. The same mare might sell for less in Texas, but more in Kentucky.

Want to know what your horse is worth where you live?
Check out the Horse Price Calculator—it figures in gender, breed, training, health, and location.

Should Gender Matter When You Buy?

Here’s the truth:
A calm, trained mare is worth more than a green, spooky gelding.
Every time.

So when it comes down to it, you should pick the horse that suits your life—not just one that fits a price point.

Ask yourself:

• Is the horse safe for me or my kids?

• Has it been ridden recently?

• Does it load, tie, lead, and ride without fuss?

• Do I feel good around it?

And hey—if it’s a mare that checks all those boxes, don’t let the price tag fool you.
She might be a better deal than that higher-priced gelding.

A Little Story from the Pasture

I once helped a family pick out their first horse.
They were set on buying a gelding. Wouldn’t even look at mares.

Well, guess what?
The horse that loaded perfect, stood still for their daughter to brush, and walked like a dream on the trail… was a 15-year-old Paint mare.

They offered $4,000. Seller took it. That gelding they had their eye on? Went for $6,500 and needed a month of training.

Six months later, the mare’s still their favorite family member.

Sometimes, you just gotta trust what the horse tells you—not the paperwork.

Final Thoughts

So, are geldings more expensive in 2025?
Usually, yes. But that doesn’t mean they’re always the better buy.

Mares can offer more horse for the money—if you’re willing to look past the myths.
Geldings tend to cost more, sell faster, and spook fewer buyers. That’s the market talking.

Want help figuring out what your horse is worth?
Use the Horse Price Calculator to get a fair price range based on real data.

And don’t forget to browse real listings at MyHorseForSale.com. It’s one of the best ways to see what buyers are actually paying for mares and geldings near you.

At the end of the day, buy the horse that feels right—not just the one the internet says is “easier.”

You’ll thank yourself every ride.