How Much Does a Used Piano Cost?

Are you looking to buy or sell a used piano and want to know what it is worth? Prices on the used piano market vary considerably – depending on brand, model, age, and condition. This price guide provides a current overview of realistic market prices for 2026 and helps you evaluate fair pricing.

The prices are based on current market data from German piano platforms and dealer websites. Note: final prices can vary significantly by region and condition.

Price Overview: Used Pianos by Segment

Used pianos can generally be divided into four price segments:

  • Entry level (under €1,000): Older instruments from lesser-known or budget brands, often from the 1970s or 1980s. Usually tuneable and playable but limited in tone and mechanics. Free pianos on classifieds ('free to collect') also fall here – but they are often in need of repair.
  • Mid-range (€1,000 - €5,000): The strongest market segment. Well-maintained instruments from Yamaha, Kawai, or Schimmel. For many buyers, the best value for money.
  • Upper mid-range (€5,000 - €15,000): High-quality German and Japanese instruments in very good condition, often with dealer warranty. Smaller grand pianos and professional uprights.
  • Premium (from €15,000): Concert instruments, rare vintage pieces, large grand pianos from Steinway or Bösendorfer. For professionals, institutions, and collectors.

Market Prices by Brand (used, good condition, 2026)

The following reference values apply to instruments in good to very good condition. Instruments requiring repair will be priced correspondingly lower.

  • Yamaha – value-stable used brand
    • Yamaha U1 (manufactured 1980 - 2000): approx. €2,500 - €4,500
    • Yamaha U3 (same period): approx. €3,000 - €5,500
    • Newer models (from 2005): typically €500 - €1,000 higher
  • Kawai – reliable, excellent value for money
    • Kawai K-200: approx. €2,000 - €3,500
    • Kawai K-300: approx. €2,800 - €4,500
  • Schimmel – older models cheaper, often with distinctive character
    • Schimmel (made in Germany): approx. €3,000 - €6,000 depending on model and condition
  • Bechstein
    • C. Bechstein upright piano: approx. €8,000 - €15,000
    • More affordable Bechstein models (Academy series): approx. €3,500 - €6,000 used
  • Grotrian-Steinweg – extremely durable, tonally outstanding
    • Grotrian-Steinweg upright pianos: approx. €9,000 - €20,000
  • Blüthner – warm, full tone
    • Blüthner upright pianos: approx. €7,000 - €14,000
  • Steinway & Sons – holds its value exceptionally well
    • Steinway upright piano (Model K-132): from approx. €15,000
    • Grand piano Model M (170 cm): approx. €25,000 - €50,000
    • Grand piano Model O (180 cm): approx. €30,000 - €50,000
  • Grand pianos in general
    • Small grand pianos (up to 170 cm) from Yamaha or Kawai: from approx. €5,000 - €12,000
    • Mid-size grands (170 - 200 cm) from German brands: approx. €15,000 - €35,000
    • Concert grands (from 220 cm): typically from €40,000 upwards

How Age and Condition Affect Price

Age alone does not determine value. A well-maintained Yamaha from the 1980s can be worth more than a cheap instrument from more recent production. The following factors influence price:

  • Condition: Very good (regularly tuned, no defects): full market price. Good (playable, minor cosmetic wear): approx. 15 - 20% discount. Needs repair (sticking keys, faulty action): 30 - 50% below standard price. Note: tuning and minor repairs often pay for themselves.
  • Refurbishment costs: Professional tuning: approx. €80 - €150. Minor repairs (sticking keys, pedals): approx. €150 - €400. Major overhaul (hammers, action): approx. €800 - €2,500. Full restoration: €3,000 - €10,000. These costs should be factored into the purchase calculation.
  • Region: In major cities such as Munich, Hamburg, or Frankfurt, prices are typically 10 - 20% above the national average. Rural areas often offer cheaper options, but transport costs may apply.

Price Negotiation: What is Fair?

Negotiating is common when buying a used piano. Some guidelines:

  • 5 - 15% margin is normal: Most sellers build in a negotiation buffer. Offering 10% below the asking price is a fair opening.
  • Defects justify larger discounts: If the piano needs tuning or repair, estimated repair costs are a legitimate negotiating argument.
  • Aggressive haggling is off-putting: Demanding a 40% discount on a fairly priced instrument signals a lack of genuine interest. This often ends the conversation.
  • Less room to negotiate with dealers: Professional dealers have calculated their prices. Around 5 - 8% flexibility is realistic, but in return you receive a warranty, tuning, and transport.

Used piano prices shift regularly with market supply. For the most current assessment we recommend comparing active listings on PianoHub.

Looking to buy a piano? Browse all current listings on PianoHub – free, no registration required, with radius search.