Possible on international partner business class (e.g., Lufthansa, ANA). Buy United Miles With Up to a 50% Discount (1.88¢ Each)
only if you are "topping off" a balance for an immediate, high-value redemption (like international business class) or if a promotion brings the price down to roughly 1.88 cpm . Cost vs. Value (2026 Data) Rate (Cents per Mile) Description Base Purchase Price 3.7¢ Standard rate including 7.5% federal excise tax. Promotional Price ~1.88¢ buy airline miles united
Best available rate during 100% bonus or 50% discount sales. 1.2¢ - 1.3¢ Average value estimated by NerdWallet and Frequent Miler . High-End Value 2.0¢ - 4.5¢+ Possible on international partner business class (e
Buying United MileagePlus miles is generally as a speculative investment but can be a strategic move in specific scenarios . Typically, United sells miles at a base rate of 3.7 cents per mile (cpm) , which is significantly higher than their estimated average redemption value of 1.1 to 1.3 cpm . Quick Verdict: Is It Worth It? Value (2026 Data) Rate (Cents per Mile) Description
if you are buying miles to "save up" for a future trip; the high purchase cost and dynamic pricing make this a losing trade.