Calculator Use
Use this disney vacation club cost calculator to project the true long-term financial commitment of DVC ownership. Many buyers focus only on the initial "Price Per Point," but the real cost involves annual dues that increase over time and closing costs. This tool helps you see the "big picture" over the life of a 40 or 50-year contract.
To get the most accurate results, consider both the direct purchase price from Disney and the potential savings found on the resale market.
- Number of Points
- The total annual points allocation you are purchasing (e.g., 150 points is a common starting amount for a week in a 1-bedroom villa).
- Price per Point
- The dollar amount paid for each point. Direct prices from Disney often range from $200 to $250, while resale can be significantly lower.
- Initial Annual Dues
- The current year's maintenance fees per point. This varies by resort (e.g., Saratoga Springs vs. Riviera).
- Contract Length
- The number of years remaining on the deed until it expires and reverts to Disney.
How It Works
When you evaluate ownership using the disney vacation club cost calculator, the math is divided into two phases: the Upfront Investment and the Carrying Costs. The Upfront Investment is fixed, but the Carrying Costs (Annual Dues) are variable and subject to inflation.
Total Cost = (Points × Price) + Closing Costs + ∑(Yearly Dues × (1 + Inflation)^Year)
- Purchase Price: The principal amount paid to acquire the real estate interest.
- Closing Costs: Legal, recording, and title fees, usually $500–$800.
- Dues Inflation: Historically, DVC dues have risen by 3% to 5% annually.
- Contract Duration: The time horizon over which you spread the upfront cost.
Calculation Example
Example: A family buys 150 points at the Riviera Resort at $225 per point with a 47-year contract and $9.00 starting dues.
Step-by-step solution:
- Upfront: 150 × $225 = $33,750 + $600 closing = $34,350.
- Year 1 Dues: 150 × $9.00 = $1,350.
- Year 2 Dues (4% increase): $1,350 × 1.04 = $1,404.
- Lifetime Dues: Summing these increases over 47 years results in approximately $183,000 in maintenance fees.
- Total Lifetime Cost: $34,350 + $183,000 = $217,350.
- Cost per Year: $217,350 / 47 = $4,624 per year.
Common Questions
Is DVC cheaper than booking hotels?
Generally, yes, if you plan to stay at Deluxe-level Disney resorts every year for at least 10–15 years. The disney vacation club cost calculator usually shows a "break-even" point compared to cash rooms around year 12, depending on the inflation of hotel room rates versus DVC dues.
What is the biggest hidden cost?
The annual dues inflation. While $8.00 per point sounds manageable today, at a 4% annual increase, that same point will cost over $38.00 per year in maintenance by the end of a 40-year contract. This is why projecting the lifetime cost is so critical.
Should I buy direct or resale?
Buying resale can save you 30% to 50% on the upfront price per point. However, Disney restricts "Membership Extras" (like discounts and lounge access) for resale buyers, and some newer resorts (Riviera, Disneyland Hotel) have significant resale restrictions on where those points can be used.