10 Most Affordable Cat Breeds (With Info & Pictures)

There are many different cat breeds out there. While they might not be as well-known as dog breeds, cats can differ quite a bit. You have “average” cats like American Shorthairs, and then you also have famous breeds like Persians.

Some cat breeds are incredibly expensive, but others are incredibly affordable. In this article, we’ll look at some of the cheapest cat breeds that are within reach for most families. We’ll look at breeds like the Oriental Shorthairs and the Manx.

The 10 Cheapest Cat Breeds

1. Oriental Shorthair

This purebred cat costs $100 - $400 (adoption fees from shelters) to $800 - $2500 (from breeders). They look quite exotic and have huge, adorable ears. They are a close relative to the Siamese cat and have a similar body shape. They are also incredibly intelligent. They can be trained to do basic tricks and love puzzle toys.

They are a very social breed and are very family-oriented. They get along with practically every person and pet, making them a perfect cat for families. They are very friendly with guests as well.

2. Turkish Van

Turkish Van is a less-known breed. However, they’re soft, fluffy, and adorable. They cost about $75 - $300 (from a shelter) to $600 - $2000 (from breeders). They are very active, so they’re perfect for homes with preschoolers who love playing. This playtime wears them down as well, which will help them be better behaved indoors. They also love playing in the water, which makes them unique.

3. Manx

Manx look like average “cats.” They have a round body and round face. However, they have no tail. They are adventurous and innovative. They can’t necessarily be trained like some other breeds. But they do like puzzle toys and exploration. They’re the cat that will somehow end up in your air duct at 5:00 in the morning!

They are also devoted companions and enjoy attention, though they aren’t exactly cuddly. You can get Manx for about $50 - $250 (adoption fees at shelters) to $500 - $1800 (from breeders).

4. Havana Brown

Havana Brown cats look unique, although their price can be around $200 - $600 (adoption fees) to $1000 - $3500 (from breeders). They have a more massive muzzle than most cats, which makes them look unique. They look a bit “concerned”. However, they are incredibly active and fun-loving. They are very curious and love playing. They thrive on attention. These cats will greet you at the door like a dog.

5. Himalayan

The Himalayan looks like a mix between a Siamese and a Persian. However, they are much cheaper than either of those breeds. They cost about $150 - $500 (shelter adoption) to $1000 - $3000 (from breeders). This low price makes them very popular. They are not particularly active and prefer to cuddle than everything. If you want a fluffy cat to lay in your lap, this is a reliable option.

They do require regular brushing to prevent matting. However, they are quite laidback, so this is less difficult than it sounds.

6. Ragdoll

Ragdoll cats can be very expensive, or they can be inexpensive. Pet varieties can cost $200 - $500 (adoption fees) to $800 - $3000 (from breeders). Different breeders can charge wildly different amounts. If you want to save money, you need to find a breeder that breeds these cats to be pets, not for the show ring.

These felines are very inexpensive and mellow. They tend just to lay around all day. They go limp in your arms when cuddling, which is where they get their name from.

7. Snowshoe

Snowshoe has a fluffy coat and adorable white feet, hence its name. The history of this breed is uncertain. However, it is believed to have been initially bred in the United States, making it one of the cheapest cat breeds in this area - you can adopt them for $100 - $350 (from shelters) to $700 - $2000 (from breeders). They have varied personalities. Sometimes they are shy, but other times that can be too loveable. It just depends on the particular cat.

They are a bit “intense”, according to some owners.

8. Cornish Rex

Out of all the inexpensive cat breeds we’ve reviewed, the Cornish Rex is the most exotic-looking. They are thin and have excellent acrobatic skills. They are fast, and it isn’t uncommon for them to run around in the wee hours of the morning. They are also outgoing and playful. They tend to be a bit kitten-like, as well. They don’t grow up.

They are great with children, as they are quite gentle. They are very patient and will happily sit there while a toddler figures out how to play with them. It is possible to adopt Cornish Rex for about $150 - $450 (adoption fees) to $800 - $2500 (from breeders).

9. Siamese

Siamese are famous, but they are a surprisingly cheap cat breed. They only cost about $50 - $200 (adoption fees at shelters) to $500 - $1500 (from breeders). They are an ancient breed and likely appeared around the 1300s. They love attention and are very loveable. They love to play, cuddle, and do whatever their family is up to at the time!

Their attentiveness makes them a trendy family cat.

• Also see: How Much Do Siamese Cats Cost? Price Guide

10. Burmese

The Burmese isn’t one of the cheapest cat breeds on the market, ranging anywhere from $150 - $400 (adoption fees) to $800 - $2500 (from breeders). They have striking eyes, which are golden. They are absolutely lap cats, but they do enjoy gentle playtime. They are great for households with children.

• Also see: How Much Does a Burmese Cat Cost (Updated Price Guide)

Conclusion

There are plenty of affordable cat breeds that won't break the bank. Adopting a shelter cat will be the cheapest overall. Breeds like the Turkish Van, Siamese, and Manx tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, but prices can vary depending on breeders, location, and availability. Even a pedigree cat, such as the Ragdoll and Oriental Shorthair, can be relatively inexpensive if purchased from the right breeder. It's important to keep in mind the initial cost to adopt a cat should be considered along with other regular expenses such as food, vet bills, grooming, and environment maintenance. The best cat for you is one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and household situation.

Featured Image Credit: Lucie K, Shutterstock