Cessna 210 Centurion Cost of Ownership: High-Performance Single Operating Costs & Purchase Price
The Cessna 210 Centurion stands as Cessna's flagship single-engine aircraft—a powerful, retractable-gear machine capable of carrying six occupants at 184 knots across great distances. With a typical purchase price around $300,000 and hourly operating costs near $299/hour, the 210 delivers premium performance for owners willing to accept higher operating expenses. This comprehensive guide breaks down every cost element to help you understand the true economics of 210 Centurion ownership.
Purchase Price
$300K
Typical quality used
Fuel Burn
14–16 GPH
Standard cruise
Annual Fixed Costs
$15K–$20K
Hangar, insurance, inspection
Hourly Operating Cost
$299/hr
Full cost including reserves
Cessna 210 Centurion Purchase Price & Market Value
The Cessna 210 Centurion offers outstanding value as a high-performance single-engine aircraft. With typical purchase prices around $300,000 and a range from $65,000 for older models to $600,000 for newer turbocharged variants, the 210 remains significantly less expensive than comparable twin-engine aircraft while offering single-engine simplicity and reliability.
Used Aircraft Pricing by Era
| Aircraft Era | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1960s–1970s (Early Models) | $65K–$150K | Basic avionics; aging airframes |
| 1980s–1990s (Mid-Era) | $200K–$350K | Popular era; good availability |
| 2000s–2010s (Modern) | $400K–$600K | Latest production; glass cockpits |
| Turbocharged (T210) | +$75K–$150K premium | Higher altitude capability; cost premium |
The Cessna 210 holds value well due to its robust design, capable engine, and strong market demand. Total flight hours, engine condition, gear and systems maintenance history, and avionics upgrades significantly influence resale value.
Fuel Consumption & Operating Costs
The Cessna 210's powerful Continental IO-520 engine provides excellent performance with reasonable fuel efficiency for its power class. At 14–16 gallons per hour, the 210 balances speed and economy well, making it suitable for longer cross-country flights.
Fuel Burn at Different Power Settings
| Flight Phase | Fuel Burn (GPH) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Takeoff & Climb | ~20 GPH | Full throttle (brief duration) |
| Cruise (75% Power) | 15 GPH | Standard cruise setting |
| Economy Cruise | 12–13 GPH | Reduced power; slower speed |
| Descent & Approach | 6–8 GPH | Idle to light power |
Annual Fuel Costs by Utilization (Avgas @ $6.00/gal)
| Annual Flight Hours | Gallons/Year @ 15 GPH | Annual Fuel Cost | Per Hour Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 hours | 750 gal | $4,500 | $90 |
| 100 hours | 1,500 gal | $9,000 | $90 |
| 150 hours | 2,250 gal | $13,500 | $90 |
| 200 hours | 3,000 gal | $18,000 | $90 |
Engine Specifications & Maintenance Philosophy
The Cessna 210's Continental IO-520 is a proven, powerful piston engine known for reliability and longevity when properly maintained. The complex systems—especially retractable landing gear—require more maintenance than fixed-gear alternatives.
Engine Specifications
- Engine: Continental IO-520 (300 hp, 6-cylinder, air-cooled)
- Horsepower: 300 hp
- Fuel Type: 100LL Avgas
- Fuel Consumption: 14–16 GPH at cruise
- TBO (Time Between Overhaul): 1,500–2,000 hours (depends on model)
- Engine Overhaul Cost: $15,000–$18,000
- Overhaul Reserve (per hour): $8–$12 at TBO
- Oil Cost: $4 per flying hour
- Retractable Gear Complexity: Higher than fixed-gear aircraft
Annual Maintenance Breakdown
| Maintenance Item | Estimated Annual Cost | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Inspection | $3,000–$4,500 | Annually (retractable gear adds cost) |
| Oil & Filter Changes | $400–$600 | Every 50 hours |
| Spark Plug Maintenance | $300–$500 | Every 100 hours |
| Landing Gear Service | $1,500–$3,000 | Periodic maintenance & repairs |
| Unexpected Repairs & Parts | $1,000–$2,000 | As needed |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $1,000–$1,500 | Buildup over TBO |
| Total Annual (100 hrs) | $7,200–$12,100 | Estimated |
Insurance Costs for the Cessna 210
Insurance for the Cessna 210 is moderate relative to aircraft value and capability. Costs vary based on pilot qualifications and aircraft configuration (standard vs. turbocharged).
Typical Annual Insurance Costs
| Coverage Type & Pilot Quals | Annual Insurance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Liability Only—Qualified Pilot | $500–$650 | $1M liability coverage |
| Liability Only—Less Qualified | $630–$750 | Higher risk factor |
| Liability + $80K Hull—Qualified | $2,150–$3,000 | Standard comprehensive |
| Liability + $80K Hull—Less Qualified | $4,000–$5,500 | Significantly higher rates |
Pilot Requirements: Qualified pilots should have a Private Pilot license, 500–1,000+ total flight hours, and 25+ hours in retractable-gear aircraft. Turbocharged aircraft may require additional experience. Less-qualified pilots face substantially higher premiums.
Total Cost of Ownership: Cessna 210 Centurion
The following tables show total annual operating costs at different utilization levels, assuming a $300,000 purchase price and standard owner-operator assumptions.
Scenario A: 100 Annual Flight Hours (Personal/Weekend Use)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $3,600 | $36 |
| Insurance (liability + $80K hull) | $2,600 | $26 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $3,750 | $37.50 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $1,000 | $10 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $10,950 | $109.50 |
| Variable Costs (@ 100 hours) | ||
| Fuel (1,500 gal @ $6.00/gal Avgas) | $9,000 | $90 |
| Oil & Filters | $400 | $4 |
| Spark Plugs & Routine Service | $300 | $3 |
| Unexpected Repairs & Misc. | $1,500 | $15 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $11,200 | $112 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $22,150 | $221.50 |
Scenario B: 200 Annual Flight Hours (Active Cross-Country Use)
| Cost Category | Annual Cost | Per Flight Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | ||
| Hangar/Tiedown | $3,600 | $18 |
| Insurance (liability + $80K hull) | $2,600 | $13 |
| Annual Inspection & Maintenance | $4,000 | $20 |
| Engine Overhaul Reserve | $2,000 | $10 |
| Subtotal Fixed Costs | $12,200 | $61 |
| Variable Costs (@ 200 hours) | ||
| Fuel (3,000 gal @ $6.00/gal Avgas) | $18,000 | $90 |
| Oil & Filters | $800 | $4 |
| Spark Plugs & Routine Service | $600 | $3 |
| Unexpected Repairs & Misc. | $2,500 | $12.50 |
| Subtotal Variable Costs | $21,900 | $109.50 |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $34,100 | $170.50 |
Why Own a Cessna 210 Centurion?
The Cessna 210 remains the premier choice for high-performance single-engine aircraft ownership:
- ✈ True 6-Seat Capability: Carry meaningful payloads with passengers and baggage for real-world missions.
- ✈ High-Performance Single: 300 hp Continental IO-520 delivers 184-knot cruise speeds competitive with light twins.
- ✈ Retractable Gear: Speed and efficiency advantage over fixed-gear aircraft without twin-engine complexity.
- ✈ 1,050 NM Range: Excellent for long cross-country flights and business travel on a single-engine platform.
- ✈ Robust Reputation: Proven design with 40+ year production history and large owner community.
- ✈ Modern Variants Available: Turbocharged (T210) and pressurized (P210) versions for higher performance needs.
- ✈ Strong Resale Market: Proven demand and stable pricing in the pre-owned aircraft market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Cessna 210 Centurion different from other Cessnas?
The Cessna 210 Centurion is Cessna's premium single-engine offering, featuring a retractable landing gear, more powerful engine (300 hp Continental IO-520), higher speed (184 knots), greater useful load, and more advanced avionics than the base 182. The 210 is designed for higher-performance operations, longer cross-country flights, and carries up to 6 passengers. It's the step-up from the naturally-aspirated 182.
How much does a Cessna 210 Centurion cost to buy?
Used Cessna 210 Centurion aircraft typically cost between $65,000 (older models from 1960s-1970s) and $600,000 (newer models). A typical quality used 210 in decent condition averages around $300,000. Turbocharged models (T210) and pressurized versions (P210) command premiums. The 210 has held value reasonably well due to its capability and strong reputation.
How much fuel does the Cessna 210 burn?
The Cessna 210 burns approximately 14–16 gallons per hour depending on power settings and altitude. At $6/gallon Avgas, hourly fuel costs run $84–$96. Annual fuel costs at 100 hours would be approximately $8,400–$9,600, or about $2,100–$2,400 at 25 hours. At 200 hours, annual fuel costs run $16,800–$19,200.
What engine does the Cessna 210 use and what is the TBO?
The standard Cessna 210 uses a Continental IO-520 300-hp engine with typically 1,500–2,000 hour TBO depending on model. Turbocharged versions (T210) use the TSIO-520-CE with 1,600-hour TBO. Engine overhauls cost approximately $15,000–$18,000. Turbo models command higher maintenance costs due to intercooler and turbocharger complexity.
How much does insurance cost for a Cessna 210?
Insurance for a qualified pilot ranges from $500–$650/year for liability-only to $2,150–$3,000/year for full hull coverage ($80K). Less-experienced pilots pay $630–$750 for liability and $4,000–$5,500 for hull. Turbocharged and pressurized models may cost more. Pilot experience and aircraft value are primary cost drivers.
Is the Cessna 210 pressurized?
The base Cessna 210 Centurion is not pressurized, though pressurized versions (P210) exist. The standard 210 has a service ceiling around 18,000–20,000 feet depending on model. If you need pressurization and higher altitude capability, consider the P210 Centurion II (pressurized) variant, though these are more expensive to purchase and operate.
What is the range and useful load of the Cessna 210?
The Cessna 210 has a maximum range around 1,050 nautical miles and useful load of approximately 1,100–1,200 lbs. Practical range with reserves is about 800–900 NM. The 210 can carry 6 occupants plus meaningful baggage, though fuel load impacts available payload. With full fuel, useful load for cargo/passengers is reduced.
What are the annual fixed costs for Cessna 210 ownership?
Annual fixed costs for the Cessna 210 total approximately $15,400–$20,000, including: hangar rental ($4,000–$6,000/year), insurance ($500–$5,000/year depending on hull value), annual inspection ($3,000–$4,500 for retractable gear aircraft), and maintenance reserves. Landing gear maintenance adds complexity and cost compared to fixed-gear aircraft.
Sources & Citations
- 1. Pilot Passion - How Much Does a Cessna 210 Centurion Cost: Comprehensive pricing and cost of ownership guide. https://pilotpassion.com
- 2. BWI Aviation Insurance - Cessna 210 Insurance Costs: Insurance premium breakdown and pilot qualification requirements. https://bwifly.com
- 3. BWI Aviation Insurance - Cessna 210 Operating Costs: Detailed operating cost analysis and maintenance requirements. https://bwifly.com
- 4. Aviation Consumer - Cessna 210 Aircraft Review: In-depth aircraft analysis and ownership guidance. https://aviationconsumer.com
- 5. AOPA - Cessna 210 Aircraft Fact Sheet: Technical specifications and ownership information. https://www.aopa.org
Disclaimer: Aircraft prices and operating costs vary based on market conditions, individual aircraft condition, engine hours, turbocharged variants, and geographic location. The figures presented represent industry averages and should be verified with actual aircraft brokers, mechanics, and insurance providers before making a purchase decision. All cost data is current as of October 2025.
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