Not all amazing cats come with a hefty price tag. Some of the most affectionate, playful, and loyal companions are surprisingly affordable.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lap cat or a curious playmate, there’s a budget-friendly breed out there for you. Here are some of the best inexpensive cat breeds that prove love and personality don’t have to break the bank.
1. Burmese Cat
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Price: $500 to $800
Burmese cats are known for their gorgeous golden eyes. These cats are lap cats, but they also enjoy playtime, so they are a great addition to families with children.
While Burmese kittens are curious, active, and adaptable to any situation. But as they grow older, they can become more laid-back and enjoy lying on the sofa without getting involved in activities.
No matter the age, these cats love to explore the environment around them, and often, they’ll find their way to the window, which is their most interesting source of things – the world outside. Burmese cats will easily bond with other Burmese; however, they are rarely good with other cat breeds.
2. Manx Cat
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Price: $350 to $1500
How to recognize a Manx cat? Easily. Manx cats are the only cat breed to have no tail, which is a result of inbreeding and isolation of this specific cat breed. They have a round face and round body.
This is the type of cat that will wake you up at 4 a.m. doing God knows what. They love attention, and they are ready to be devoted companions; however, this cat won’t be your perfect snuggle buddy since they don’t like it so much. This cat breed is an even-tempered cat that won’t make a fuss and will enjoy being around people.
Manx cats need to have strict nutrition in order to stay in great shape. Because they have a big appetite, obesity can knock on the door really fast. This cat breed will enjoy playtime with children since play and running are their number one activities.
3. Havana Brown
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Price: $200 to $1500
Havana Browns are a special and rare breed indeed. Their massive muzzle, compared to the muzzles of other cats, makes them look unique. They have somewhat worried faces.
However, Havana Browns are curious and active felines that love play and fun. These cats live for attention and might even greet you at the door when you come home.
When it comes to their name, there are stories that they got their name since their color is similar to the color of the Cuban cigars that are, in some opinions, the best of the best. Maybe a more believable story is that they got their name because of the similarity with the chocolate-colored Havana rabbits.
4. Turkish Van
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Price: $200 to $800
The Turkish Van is a now popular cat breed. Their look is something special, all adorable, fluffy, and soft; surprisingly, they are considered to be one of the cheapest cat breeds on the market.
They are a very active, playful cat breed, so the perfect home for them would be full of children. This playtime will tire them down, so they’ll behave better in your house.
This breed of cat is known to love playing and just being in the water, which is quite unique considering that most cats don’t like it. My cat Luna, for example, even when she hears moving water, runs like she’s seen a ghost, even though cats love mowing water but not being in it.
5. Siamese Cat
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Price: $250 to $800
Even though Siamese cats are really famous, they are not so expensive. Can you believe that this breed appeared in the 1300s?
These cats are truly loveable, and they love to be in the spotlight. Because they are so attentive, families often choose them as their pets.
Siamese cats come from a cat landrace in Thailand. There are two versions of the Siamese, the traditional one and the modern:
6. Ragdoll Cat
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Price: $75 to $400
Ragdoll cats can be really cheap and really expensive; it depends on the pet show and breeder varieties and the breeders that charge differently. If you want to pay less, go for the Ragdoll breeders that sell pet-quality Ragdolls.
These gorgies are mellow felines that love to lay around all that. Their favorite part of the day is a cuddle and snuggle session with their owner.
However, that is not essentially a good thing for them. Their limping is the reason people assume they are pain-resistant. However, that is not the case, and breeders work on reducing their tendency to do that.
7. Cornish Rex Cat
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Price: $50 to $1300
The Cornish Rex is the most exotic cat on this list of inexpensive cat breeds. These cats have thin bodies and are really acrobatic and fast.
Even though they are energetic, they tend to be truly gentle, thus being wonderful with children. Their patience and calmness when in need are something they are known for.
This cat is special in its own way. While most cats have three kinds of hair, this cat has extremely thin down and extremely fine hair, because of which some people think they’re related to Devon Rex, which is another short-haired breed of cat. However, their similarities in appearance are the results of different genetic mutations.
8. Oriental Shorthair
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Price: $400 to $500
Oriental Shorthair cat is a purebred feline closely related to a Siamese cat and shares a similar body shape that is well-muscled and a triangular head. These cats have an exotic appearance and adorable ears.
As a highly intelligent cat breed, they can be trained to do lots of tricks, and they love physical stimulation like puzzle toys.
Oriental Shorthairs can come in so many different shades and patterns, unlike their Siamese relatives. Hundreds of varieties are acceptable for the Oriental Shorthair breed, which is not the case for the Siamese cat breed.
9. Himalayan Cat
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Price: $300 to $1250
The Himalayan cat looks like a combination of a Persian cat and a Siamese cat. However, this cat is a lot cheaper than those two cat breeds, with a starting price of $300. The low price of the Himalayan cat makes them highly popular among cat lovers.
One thing that a Himalayan cat would sign to do for the rest of its life is to cuddle. This cat breed is not active and prefers to be a fluffy pile of fur in your lap, on the sofa, by the window, or somewhere warm.
Due to their coat, they need to be regularly brushed in order to avoid matting and tangling. This is not so hard since their favorite pose is lying down, and napping over everything is their motto.
10. Snowshoe Cat
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Price: $200 to $800
This cat breed has a bit unknown history. There is a saying that they were bred first in the United States, which makes them one of the cheapest cat breeds.
As we said, you can find many different personalities inside the Snowshoe cat, and sometimes you’ll see them being shy and reserved, while sometimes they’ll be too much fun. However, that depends on the specific cat. Rarely, but they can be a bit intense.
The apple-shaped head can come from crossbreeding other cat breeds with the traditional apple-headed look with American Shorthair, while the triangle-shaped head comes from the story that the founder of this cat breed was three Siamese cats with white feet.
11. American Shorthair
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Price: $0 to $600
A zero? How can a cat cost zero dollars? Well, American Shorthair cats are domestic house cats that you can find basically anywhere.
These cats came from European cats that adapted to North American conditions. They are pedigree cats, and they’re not that different from other short-haired cats from Europe. American Shorthairs are still a breed of working cats, and good ones, actually.
In North America, these cats are really affordable and one of the cheapest cat breeds, but not just that, they have so much more to offer. These cats can come in so many different colors and patterns, and they are low-maintenance, healthy, and relaxed.
12. Tonkinese
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Price: $250 to $1000
We are not quite sure why the Tonkinese cat is named Tonkinese. When we researched the Tonkinese name, we found that the Tonkin is an external name for northern Vietnam. But, the Tonkinese cat has nothing to do with Vietnam as it was created by mixing Burmese and Siamese.
Tonkinese existed for a long time before the two cat breeders started to produce Burmese and Siamese crossbreeds in the late 20th century.
Nonetheless, the breeders wanted the Tonkinese to have only the best of both worlds. It is expected that these cats have traits of both Burmese and Siamese. When you look at it, you see that the Tonkinese cat is neither weighty as the American Burmese nor slim as the Siamese cat.
13. Abyssinian
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Price: $500 to $1200
Another affordable cat breed is definitely the Abyssinian cat. The prices can differ a lot, and the main part is their coat colors. Why? Because rare colors, such as the cream one, can cost up to $2500, and when you add to it the breeder and his reputation, you get a really expensive cat.
This is a moderate-looking cat that has a gentle dip in the triangular head, on top of which are large ears that give her an alert and aware look. It seems that she’s always focused and paying attention.
The breed is quite intelligent and active, which makes it a true fit for families with a lot of kids. With their affectionate and loving disposition, these cats will communicate with you softly and quietly.
14. Munchkin
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Price: $500 to $1500
As one of the most adorable cat breeds in the world, Munchkins actually deserve a place on the list of the cheapest cat breeds. Munchkin cats cost around $500 to $1500.
These felines are cute for a reason; however, Munchkin cats can have many different health problems due to their short legs, which are the result of a genetic mutation: lordosis, obesity, hyperthyroidism, and pectus excavatum.
15. Birman
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Price: $500 to $600
The Birman is a cat breed that prefers to attach to one person only. The Birman cat can even display jealousy if she notices that the owner doesn’t pay any attention to her or if a new family member comes into the picture. Yes, cats can be jealous of babies.
These cats are territorial living beings, but they don’t show aggressiveness. As they are large cats and stocky, they can easily become overweight, which is something you should pay more attention to if you are to own a Birman cat.
16. The American Bobtail
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Price: $600 to $1200
These cats can come in many different shades of tabby coat, including bi-color, calico, and solid, which are pretty much the most famous coats of this cat.
Even though they’re not so vocal, American Bobtails will show how they feel with their meows and yowls. The American Bobtails are a friendly and energetic cat breed that loves to be around people; enjoying attention is their soft spot.
As we said, they are energetic but not overactive. These cats will get along with dogs and other felines.
17. American Longhair
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Price: $600-$1,200
The American Longhair cat is a stunning breed, known for its luxurious, flowing coat and friendly personality.
With its gentle temperament and playful nature, it’s a perfect companion for families or anyone who loves a cuddly, yet independent, feline friend. Despite its elegant appearance, the American Longhair is surprisingly affordable compared to other long-haired breeds.
Kittens typically range in price from $500 to $1,200, which is quite reasonable for a cat with such beauty and charm. If you’re looking for a loving, low-maintenance longhaired cat, the American Longhair is a great option that won’t cost you a fortune.
18. Egyptian Mau
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Price: $500 to $800
This unique cat has been with us for thousands of years. They’re known for their special striped and spotted markings, gorgeous green eyes, and elegant body shapes.
This breed is told to be a shy feline; however, they can form a deep connection with their owners and won’t have problems showing you affection and loyalty.
19. European Shorthair
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Price: $150-$800
The European Shorthair cat is a lovable, adaptable breed that’s perfect for families. Known for their strong build and playful nature, these cats are often found in homes across Europe, where they’ve been adored for centuries.
One of the best parts about the European Shorthair is how affordable it is. Prices for a kitten usually range between $400 and $800, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality cat without the hefty price tag.
If you’re looking for a friendly, sturdy companion that won’t break the bank, the European Shorthair is a fantastic option.
20. Bombay
Price: $500 to $800
The Bombay cat, often called the “mini panther,” is a sleek and elegant breed with a shiny black coat and striking copper or gold eyes. Developed in the 1950s, this breed was designed to resemble a wild panther but with a domestic cat’s loving and playful temperament.
Bombays are social and affectionate cats that thrive on interaction with their owners. They are highly adaptable and do well in apartments or houses.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they are generally healthy, making them a cost-effective choice for cat enthusiasts seeking a unique and beautiful pet.
21. Moggie
Price: $0 to $200
The Moggie, or domestic mixed-breed cat, is one of the most affordable and popular feline options. These cats come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and sizes, making each one truly unique.
Found in shelters or as strays, Moggies are often available for free or at a minimal adoption fee, which usually includes vaccinations and spaying/neutering.
Despite their humble origins, Moggies are known for their adaptability and loving personalities. They make excellent companions and can form strong bonds with their families.
22. Russian Blue
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Price: $500 to $800
The Russian Blue is a graceful and reserved breed known for its stunning silver-blue coat and vivid green eyes. Originally from Russia, this breed has earned a reputation for its affectionate yet independent nature, making it an ideal companion for individuals or families.
Russian Blues are intelligent, playful, and form strong bonds with their owners, while their quiet demeanor makes them perfect for apartment living.
Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming, and they are generally healthy, making them a cost-effective and elegant choice for cat lovers seeking a serene and loyal companion.
23. Balinese
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Price: $500 to $800
The Balinese cat, often called the “long-haired Siamese,” is a graceful breed with a silky, flowing coat and striking blue eyes. This breed originated as a natural mutation of the Siamese and is known for its friendly, outgoing, and vocal personality.
Balinese cats are highly social and enjoy being involved in family activities. They are also intelligent and trainable, often learning tricks or adapting to leash walks.
Their luxurious coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, and their robust health makes them an affordable and charming addition to any cat-loving household.
24. Japanese Bobtail
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Price: $300 to $1,000
Known for its distinctive pom-pom tail and cheerful personality, the Japanese Bobtail is one of the most charming and playful cat breeds. These cats are famously intelligent, affectionate, and love to interact with their humans, often chirping and talking back in conversation.
Despite their elegant history and cultural significance in Japan, Japanese Bobtails are generally affordable and easy to care for. With their love of play and striking looks, they bring a unique joy to any home.
25. Lykoi Cat
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Price: $500 to $1,200
The Lykoi, often called the “werewolf cat,” stands out with its partially hairless coat and wild, expressive eyes. While they may look mysterious, these cats are affectionate, loyal, and deeply people-oriented. Lykoi cats enjoy cuddling just as much as exploring, and their curiosity keeps things entertaining.
Their rarity gives them an exotic flair, yet they remain relatively budget-friendly compared to other unique-looking breeds.
With their playful energy and strong bonds with humans, Lykoi cats make fascinating companions for those seeking something a little different.