unfortunately, right now the price/value of used cars/vehicles have gone up considerably since the economy tanked a few years ago. Lots of people are in the same boat as you, looking for a good used vehicle as they cannot afford or afraid to buy a new one due to the costs and uncertainty over job stablity. if you could find a base base base model of the truck you like, you might could get low rate financing if your credit is good which can save you lots and lots of $$. Don't rule out new until you have looked. Go with whatever brand you feel comfortable with, everyone has their preference.