Top 5 Best Car Auctions Around the US in 2025
Car auctions continue to attract collectors, investors, and everyday buyers looking for everything from affordable daily drivers to rare classics. Events across the country bring together dealers, enthusiasts, and newcomers eager to experience the excitement of live bidding. Some auctions specialize in luxury and collector cars, while others focus on providing budget-friendly opportunities for used vehicles. From Barrett-Jackson to Mecum, the options in 2025 are more diverse than ever. For those who enjoy traveling for high-energy events, Las Vegas car auctions remain a must-see highlight of the calendar.
1. Barrett-Jackson – Scottsdale, Arizona
Barrett-Jackson has earned its reputation as one of the most prestigious collector car auctions in the world. The Scottsdale event each January sets the tone for the entire year. It draws thousands of bidders, car enthusiasts, and media outlets to watch rare classics, exotic supercars, and custom builds cross the block.
Expect to see everything from American muscle cars to limited-production European icons. Barrett-Jackson offers not just an auction but also a festival-like experience with exhibits, test drives, and lifestyle showcases. For collectors, Scottsdale is the ultimate place to find investment-grade vehicles, while for spectators it is an event worth attending for the sheer energy and variety.
2. Mecum Auctions – Kissimmee, Florida
Mecum in Kissimmee is known for being one of the largest collector car auctions in the United States. Held every January, it often features over 3,000 vehicles. With such scale, Mecum provides something for every budget, from entry-level classics to multi-million-dollar investments.
Highlights often include rare muscle cars, vintage trucks, and performance cars with notable provenance. The auction also attracts international buyers, making it a truly global stage. For car enthusiasts planning to buy, Mecum Kissimmee offers extensive previews, professional inspections, and online bidding for convenience. The sheer variety makes it one of the most accessible and exciting auctions for 2025.
3. RM Sotheby’s – Monterey, California
RM Sotheby’s Monterey event is an elite auction known for record-breaking sales and high-profile consignments. Taking place during Monterey Car Week in August, it brings together some of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world.
Expect to see pre-war classics, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and one-of-a-kind prototypes fetching prices in the millions. While it may not be the ideal place for bargain hunters, it is the ultimate stage for serious collectors. The prestige of Monterey Car Week combined with RM Sotheby’s reputation makes this auction a spectacle for anyone passionate about the art and history of automobiles.
4. Gooding & Company – Pebble Beach, California
Also part of Monterey Car Week, Gooding & Company has established itself as a premier auction house for high-end classics and sports cars. Their Pebble Beach sale is famous for setting benchmarks in the market and offering museum-quality vehicles.
The atmosphere is refined, with a focus on heritage, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Many of the vehicles featured at Gooding auctions have impeccable documentation and restoration histories, making them highly desirable to discerning collectors. While the prices often reach seven figures, even attending as a spectator offers a rare glimpse into automotive history at its finest.
5. Copart – Nationwide Locations
For those not seeking million-dollar classics, Copart provides an entirely different kind of car auction experience. Operating in locations across the country and online, Copart specializes in used, salvage, and insurance-claimed vehicles.
This makes it a top choice for mechanics, small dealerships, and budget-conscious buyers who want affordable project cars or parts. Copart’s digital platform allows participants to browse inventory, place bids, and arrange shipping all from their computer. In 2025, its accessibility and practicality make it one of the most popular options for everyday buyers.
Final Thoughts
Car auctions in the US offer something for every type of buyer and enthusiast. From the glitz and glamour of Barrett-Jackson and RM Sotheby’s to the practicality of Copart, the variety ensures there is an event for every budget and interest. Major gatherings in Arizona, Florida, California, and Nevada will continue to set the pace for the industry in 2025.
