Cost calculator

What does this animal really cost?

Setup, monthly, first year, and across the animal's whole life, itemised, so you can see which line is the one that matters. Published figures for the same animal disagree by a factor of four, which is why this shows ranges rather than picking one.

Electricity is included, worked out from the actual wattage of the heating and lighting against a tariff you type in. Nobody else publishes that, and for a heated reptile it is not a rounding error.

Animal

Region

How many animals

Your electricity price, per kWh

Buying the setup

What is actually in these figures

Every line below is a researched range rather than a quote, because published figures for the same animal disagree by a factor of four. The totals on this page are the plain sum of the items: no secondhand discount, no group multiplier, no electricity. The calculator adds those three once you tell it the region, how many animals and your tariff per kWh, and works out the lifetime over each species' own lifespan from its guide. An aquarium table is priced per tank: its animal line is a starting group at the species' minimum, and only the animals and their food grow with the number. Figures checked 2026-08-30.

Rabbits: priced for 2 animals

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $690–$1,860 · Monthly $68–$145

United Kingdom (GBP)Setup £730–£1,400 · Monthly £55–£120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Housing and secure exercise space

$250–$700

The rabbitsA bonded pair, ideally from a rescue.

$50–$160

Spay or neuter, priced for two rabbitsExotics surgery pricing; varies widely by region.

$300–$800

Litter trays, bowls, carrier, hides

$90–$200

Monthly

Hay

$25–$55

Fresh greens and pellets

$25–$50

Bedding and litter

$18–$40

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$90–$200

Emergency fund contribution

$400–$800

Read the rabbit care guides →

Guinea Pigs: priced for 2 animals

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $262–$735 · Monthly $75–$175

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 22 square feet or larger for a pairMost cages sold as guinea pig cages are for one animal and too small for that. A grid-and-correx build is usually the cheapest way to reach 22 square feet; two ready-made modular enclosures joined cost more.

$150–$450

The guinea pigsA pair. One is not an option. Skinny pigs usually cost $100-200 each, so a pair of those runs about $200-400.

$30–$100

Hides, tunnels, bowls, hay rackTwo of everything, so neither animal can be cornered.

$50–$120

Carrier

$20–$40

Digital kitchen scaleFor the weekly weigh-in. Non-negotiable for this species.

$12–$25

Monthly

HayUnlimited, always available.

$25–$50

Fresh vegetablesGuinea pigs cannot synthesise vitamin C and must get it daily.

$25–$60

Pellets and vitamin C

$10–$25

Bedding

$15–$40

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$180

Emergency fund contributionDental work in a cavy is specialist work and is priced accordingly.

$350–$700

Read the guinea pig care guides →

Hamsters: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $240–$690 · Monthly $23–$55

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure with 5.5 square feet or more of unbroken floor, and 11 square feet for a SyrianThis is the line where almost every hamster setup goes wrong. Most cages sold for hamsters are a fifth of the smaller figure. A ready-made enclosure of about 47 x 20 in, enough for a dwarf or Chinese hamster, costs about $95-190; few ready-made cages reach the 11 square feet a Syrian needs, so that usually means a custom-built or converted enclosure, nearer the top of this range. To hold 16 in of bedding it also needs solid sides about 20 in high, which most ready-made cages, about 20 in tall in all, do not have.

$120–$400

Deep bedding, first fill16 in deep: about 53 gallons of paper bedding for a 39 x 20 in floor and about 105 gallons for a Syrian's square metre, so several large bags, not a small one.

$45–$130

Solid-surface wheel sized to the speciesBig enough that the back stays flat: 12 in or more for a Syrian, the size TVT, Swiss Animal Protection, PDSA and Wood Green all give. For the dwarfs TVT asks at least 10 in, where PDSA and Wood Green give 8 in and Blue Cross 8-8.5 in for a Roborovski and 8.5-10 in for Campbell's and winter whites; for a Chinese hamster Blue Cross gives 10-11 in and Wood Green 12 in. Buy towards the top. Undersized wheels cause spinal curvature.

$25–$50

The hamster

$15–$30

Sand bath, hides, chews, bowls

$35–$80

Monthly

BeddingDeep bedding costs more to maintain. It is still the right answer.

$15–$35

Food and chews

$8–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$60–$140

Emergency fund contribution

$200–$400

Read the hamster care guides →

Degus: priced for 2 animals

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $592–$3,710 · Monthly $40–$120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure with 21.5 sq ft of floor and 6.5 ft of height, or largerGnaw-proof metal mesh or glass, with several connected levels and a deep tray for digging. Usually self-built from uncoated metal mesh, from roughly $500 in materials; ready-made walk-in aviaries this size with bars no more than 1/2 in apart cost about $3,000-3,400. Degus chew through plastic, plastic-coated mesh included, so nothing they can reach should be made of it.

$500–$3,400

The degusA pair or small group. Adoption from a rescue is usually cheaper and often includes a health check.

$20–$120

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and substrate

$15–$40

FoodMost of this is hay.

$20–$60

Enrichment and chews

$5–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$70–$160

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$300–$600

Read the degu care guides →

Hedgehogs: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $422–$1,060 · Monthly $40–$120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Solid-floored enclosure with 21.5 sq ft of floor or moreWith smooth sides it cannot climb, or a lid. A grid-and-corrugated-plastic enclosure three grids by six, about 3.5 x 7 ft, comes to about $220 from a two-by-six kit, an extra grid pack and a larger base; the two-by-six kit alone gives only about 16 sq ft. The single biggest line, and the one people most often under-buy.

$150–$400

Ceramic heat emitter or heat panel with thermostatRequired, not optional: a hedgehog that gets cold attempts hibernation, which is often fatal in this species.

$50–$120

The hedgehogOne. Hedgehogs are strictly solitary and are housed alone. Breeder prices; rescue adoption fees usually run lower.

$150–$350

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and substrate

$15–$40

Food: hedgehog kibble or low-fat cat food, plus insectsLive insects are the costly part.

$20–$60

Enrichment and chews

$5–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$70–$160

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$300–$600

Read the hedgehog care guides →

Ferrets: priced for 2 animals

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $472–$1,990 · Monthly $40–$120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Ferret room or enclosure with 65 sq ft of floor or moreAt the low end, a ferret-proofed room that is theirs at all times, with a multi-level cage of about $240 inside as a base camp; at the high end, a self-built mesh enclosure about 10 x 6.5 x 5 ft, at roughly $700-1,000 in materials. Daily free-roaming matters as much as either.

$300–$1,000

The ferretsA pair. Rescue adoption fees run about $50-150 each; breeders and stores about $100-400 or more each.

$100–$800

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and litter

$15–$40

Food: ferret kibble or a balanced raw dietMeat-based. A raw or whole-prey diet usually costs more than kibble.

$20–$60

Enrichment and chews

$5–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$70–$160

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$300–$600

Read the ferret care guides →

Sugar Gliders: priced for 2 animals

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $872–$4,590 · Monthly $40–$120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Aviary-type enclosure, 6.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 ft or largerUsually self-built: a frame and vinyl-coated welded mesh no wider than 1/2 in, roughly $700 in materials. Ready-made walk-in aviaries with mesh that fine cost about $3,000-3,400, and the common size, about 7 x 5 ft, is a little short of 6.5 x 6.5 ft.

$700–$3,400

The glidersA pair, never one. Rescue adoption fees run about $50-200 each; breeders typically charge $150-500 or more each.

$100–$1,000

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and substrate

$15–$40

Food: nectar or sap mix, insects and produce

$20–$60

Enrichment and chews

$5–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$70–$160

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$300–$600

Gliders need a room no cooler than 75°F, ideally in the low 80s°F: Merck gives their preferred range as 81-88°F. If yours runs cooler, budget for a thermostat-controlled heat source as well; it is not costed here.

Read the sugar glider care guides →

Chinchillas: priced for 2 animals

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $672–$4,390 · Monthly $40–$120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6.5 x 3.3 x 4.9 ft or largerUsually self-built: a frame lined with uncoated welded metal mesh, solid shelves on three levels and two solid sides, from roughly $500 in materials. Ready-made walk-in aviaries this size cost about $2,800-3,400. Chinchillas gnaw, so use mesh without a plastic coating and keep any wood behind it. Most cages sold for chinchillas are far smaller than this.

$500–$3,400

The chinchillasA pair. Rescue adoption fees run up to about $100 each; stores and breeders about $150-400 each, more for rare colours.

$100–$800

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and substrate

$15–$40

Hay and pelletsHay is the bulk of the diet and of the bill.

$20–$60

Enrichment and chews

$5–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$70–$160

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$300–$600

Read the chinchilla care guides →

Rats: priced for 3 animals

Priced for 3 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $222–$770 · Monthly $61–$180

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure of an adequate sizeThe single biggest line, and the one people most often under-buy.

$120–$400

The ratsThree, the smallest group this guide asks for. Adoption from a rescue is usually cheaper and often includes a health check.

$30–$180

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and substrate

$23–$60

Food: rat block and fresh vegetables

$30–$90

Enrichment and chews

$8–$30

Annual

Routine exotics vet visits (two a year, quarterly from 18 months)Matches the six-monthly, then quarterly, exam schedule in the rat care routine.

$210–$720

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$450–$900

Read the rat care guides →

Bearded Dragons: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $835–$1,890 · Monthly $37–$100

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6 x 3 x 3 ft or largerAdult size from day one. A 6 x 3 x 3 ft PVC enclosure lists from about $549 new; a 6 x 2 x 2 ft one is long enough but too shallow and too low.

$550–$1,000

Basking fixture, bulbs and dimming thermostat

$70–$180

Linear UVB fixture and T5 HO bulbA linear tube spanning much of the enclosure, not a compact coil.

$70–$150

Digital thermometers with probes, and an infrared thermometerThe infrared gun reads surface temperature, which can run well above the air above it.

$35–$80

Substrate, hides, basking rock, decor

$60–$180

The dragon

$50–$300

Monthly

Live insectsThe dominant running cost in the first year, while the dragon eats insects daily. It falls once the adult diet shifts to mostly greens.

$25–$70

Greens and supplements

$12–$30

Annual

UVB bulb replacementRoughly every 12 months for a T5 HO, every 6 for a T8 or compact.

$35–$70

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Read the bearded dragon care guides →

Geckos (African Fat-tailed Gecko and Tokay Gecko): priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $450–$1,285 · Monthly $21–$53

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, adult sizeFor a fat-tailed gecko, a 4 x 2 x 2 ft enclosure, which more than covers the 35 x 24 in floor, lists from about $259-303 new; for a tokay, a 2 x 2 x 4 ft one lists from about $299-303. The leopard gecko has its own profile.

$250–$600

Heating and thermostat

$50–$130

UVB fixture and bulb (low output for nocturnal geckos, T5 high output for day geckos)Day geckos bask in strong light and need a UVI of about 3-4 at the basking spot, which a low-output lamp over mesh will not reach. A low-output lamp suits leopard, fat-tailed, crested, gargoyle and tokay geckos; once considered optional for leopards, current guidance favours providing it.

$45–$130

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides including a humid hide, decor

$40–$120

The gecko

$40–$250

Monthly

Live insects

$15–$35

Supplements and substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$30–$60

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the African Fat-tailed Gecko guide →Read the Tokay Gecko guide →

Snakes (Western Hognose Snake, Rosy Boa, Kenyan Sand Boa, Children's Python and Common Garter Snake): priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $435–$1,875 · Monthly $14–$48

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, sized for the adult snakeAbout $260-380 for a 4 x 2 x 2 ft PVC enclosure, which meets the size for a hognose or a garter snake; about $420-550 for a 4 x 2 x 4 ft one from budget makers, tall enough for a rosy boa, a sand boa or a children's python; premium enclosures 3-4 ft tall run about $660-1,150.

$260–$1,150

Heating and thermostat

$60–$150

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides at both ends, water bowlTwo hides, so the snake never has to choose between security and temperature.

$40–$120

The snake

$50–$400

Monthly

Frozen rodentsThe cheapest feeding of any common exotic. Frozen-thawed prey (garter snakes: thiaminase-free fish and earthworms as well). How often an adult eats varies by species, from every four to seven days for a garter snake to every three to six weeks for a common boa.

$8–$30

Substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Western Hognose Snake guide →Read the Rosy Boa guide →Read the Kenyan Sand Boa guide →Read the Children's Python guide →Read the Common Garter Snake guide →

Chameleons (Panther Chameleon): priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $645–$1,820 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 4 x 2 x 4 ftAdult-size from the start. A 4 x 2 x 4 ft PVC or hybrid enclosure lists from about $424-467 new.

$420–$700

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Substrate and decor

$40–$150

The animalVeiled chameleons sit near the bottom of this range; panther chameleons usually cost $250-600 or more.

$50–$600

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

No night-time heat is costed: both chameleon guides want a night-time drop in temperature, which panthers actively benefit from.

Read the Panther Chameleon guide →

Anoles: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $330–$1,050 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

EnclosureAdult-size from the start. Buying a juvenile enclosure means buying twice.

$150–$500

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Substrate and decor

$40–$150

The animalUsually $5-20. Most anoles for sale are wild-caught, so quarantine a new one and have a faecal test done.

$5–$30

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Read the anole care guides →

Water Dragons: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $1,295–$3,620 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Custom enclosure, 7 x 4 x 6 ftHeight is the non-negotiable part and off-the-shelf vivaria are far too small, so most keepers commit to a custom room-corner build. For scale, an 8 x 2 x 4 ft PVC enclosure lists from about $966 new and has about three-fifths of this floor and two-thirds of this height. Indicative range; custom builds vary widely.

$1,000–$2,500

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Pool filtration (canister or pond filter)A pool big enough to swim in needs aquarium-grade filtration, or a full water change every day.

$60–$250

Substrate, branches, foliage and decor

$60–$200

The animal

$40–$300

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

The night-time heat line stays because the water dragon guide sets a night-time floor of about 70°F.

Read the water dragon care guides →

Monitors: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $1,075–$2,970 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6 x 3 x 4 ft or largerBuilt to hold 12-24 in of soil, so it needs a deep substrate dam at the front. Few stock enclosures come 4 ft tall: a 6 x 3 x 3 ft PVC enclosure lists from about $550 new, so expect the taller size, custom-built or self-built, to cost more. Indicative range.

$550–$1,500

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Bulk soil, sand and clay for a 12-24 in burrowing layerTen or more cubic feet of substrate; bulk topsoil and play sand cost far less than bagged reptile soil.

$100–$350

Hides and decor

$40–$150

The animalCaptive-bred red ackies commonly sell for roughly $250-600; yellow ackies and bright colour forms cost more.

$250–$600

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Read the monitor care guides →

Turtles (Common Musk Turtle): priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $450–$2,020 · Monthly $18–$55

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Aquarium or tank, and a standSized for the adult, using the minimum in the species guide: a slider needs a far bigger tank than a musk turtle. A full tank is very heavy, so the stand is a structural item, not furniture.

$150–$1,000

Canister filter rated at two to three times the tank volumeTurtles produce far more waste than fish, so a filter sold for the tank's own volume is not enough.

$100–$450

Submersible heater with a guardTurtles crack unguarded glass heaters.

$40–$80

Basking dockIt has to let the turtle get fully dry.

$15–$60

Basking lamp, UVB fixture and tubeUVB over the dock is required for shell and bone health.

$60–$150

Water conditioner and liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. Test the water like an aquarium.

$45–$80

Water thermometer, and a temperature gun for the dock

$20–$50

The turtleCaptive-bred only. Rescues rehome a great many unwanted turtles.

$20–$150

Monthly

Pellets and protein foods

$10–$30

Water conditioner, filter media and test reagents

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Equipment replacement and repairHeaters and filter impellers fail, usually at the worst moment.

$40–$120

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

No air heater is costed: the water heater and the basking lamp do that job. There is no hygrometer either; the tests that matter are of the water.

Read the Common Musk Turtle guide →

Tortoises (Russian Tortoise, Hermann's Tortoise and Greek Tortoise): priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $640–$2,310 · Monthly $28–$70

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Indoor table or enclosureOpen-topped. Glass vivaria trap the stale, humid air a tortoise should not be breathing.

$180–$500

Secure outdoor penNot optional for most species, and it must be predator-proof and escape-proof.

$200–$900

Heating, UVB and thermostat

$100–$250

Substrate and furnishings

$60–$160

The tortoise

$100–$500

Monthly

Greens and weedsCheaper if you can grow or forage safely.

$20–$50

Supplements and substrate

$8–$20

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$35–$75

Routine exotics vet visit

$90–$190

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

A tortoise routinely outlives the person who buys it. The lifetime figure here is not a rhetorical device. Write the animal into your will.

Read the Russian Tortoise guide →Read the Hermann's Tortoise guide →Read the Greek Tortoise guide →

Blue-tongue Skink: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $1,225–$3,570 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 7 x 4 x 3 ft, usually custom-builtAdult-size from the start. Stock enclosures rarely come 4 ft deep; for scale, a 6 x 3 x 3 ft PVC enclosure lists from about $549 new and has under two-thirds of this floor. Indicative range.

$800–$2,300

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbNot optional: without UVB, blue-tongues readily develop metabolic bone disease.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Substrate and decorThis floor takes several times the substrate of a 4 x 2 ft enclosure; bagged coconut-chip substrate runs about $120-140 for 36 gallons.

$100–$300

The animalBabies list from about $190-230 at a large US dealer; captive-bred Northern blue-tongues from breeders commonly run $200-600 by colour and lineage, and rare morphs over $1,000. Overnight shipping, usually over $50, is extra.

$190–$600

Monthly

FoodGreens and vegetables plus protein; live insects cost more than wet dog food or lean meat.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Read the Blue-tongue Skink guide →

Common Boa: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $5,525–$6,305 · Monthly $14–$48

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 8 x 4 x 6 ftFew makers list a 6 ft tall enclosure this long: an 8 x 4 x 6 ft HDPE-PVC enclosure lists at about $5,350-5,580 from a premium maker, and ReptiFiles says building your own is often the more cost-effective route for a snake this size. An 8 x 4 x 4 ft enclosure, about $2,200-2,330, is too low.

$5,350–$5,580

Heating and thermostat

$60–$150

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides at both ends, water bowlTwo hides, so the snake never has to choose between security and temperature.

$40–$120

The snake

$50–$400

Monthly

Frozen rodentsAdults eat only every three to six weeks, but the prey is rats rather than mice.

$8–$30

Substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Common Boa guide →

Corn Snake: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $1,005–$2,665 · Monthly $14–$48

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6 x 2 x 4 ftA 6 x 2 x 4 ft PVC enclosure lists at about $830-1,040 from a mid-range maker and about $1,855-1,940 premium. No budget maker lists a 6 x 2 ft enclosure 4 ft tall.

$830–$1,940

Heating and thermostat

$60–$150

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides at both ends, water bowlTwo hides, so the snake never has to choose between security and temperature.

$40–$120

The snake

$50–$400

Monthly

Frozen rodentsFrozen-thawed prey, the cheapest feeding of any common exotic.

$8–$30

Substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Corn Snake guide →

Ball Python: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $2,265–$3,055 · Monthly $14–$48

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6 x 3 x 4 ftA 6 x 3 x 4 ft HDPE-PVC enclosure lists at about $2,090-2,170 from a premium maker, and an 8 x 4 x 4 ft one, about $2,200-2,330, also meets this size. No budget maker lists a 6 x 3 ft enclosure 4 ft tall; a self-built enclosure costs less.

$2,090–$2,330

Heating and thermostat

$60–$150

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides at both ends, water bowlTwo hides, so the snake never has to choose between security and temperature.

$40–$120

The snake

$50–$400

Monthly

Frozen rodentsFrozen-thawed prey, the cheapest feeding of any common exotic.

$8–$30

Substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Ball Python guide →

California Kingsnake and Milk Snake: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $625–$1,825 · Monthly $14–$48

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6 x 2 x 2 ftA 6 x 2 x 2 ft PVC enclosure lists at about $449 from a budget maker, about $580-720 mid-range and about $1,085 premium.

$450–$1,100

Heating and thermostat

$60–$150

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides at both ends, water bowlTwo hides, so the snake never has to choose between security and temperature.

$40–$120

The snake

$50–$400

Monthly

Frozen rodentsFrozen-thawed prey, the cheapest feeding of any common exotic.

$8–$30

Substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the California Kingsnake guide →Read the Milk Snake guide →

Carpet Python: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $3,775–$4,845 · Monthly $14–$48

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 6.5 x 3.3 x 6.5 ft, with height to climbCarpet pythons are semi-arboreal, so the height is part of the size. No stock enclosure is 6.5 ft tall: the tallest stock PVC enclosures are 6 ft, such as a 6 x 3 x 6 ft at about $3,600-3,740 or a 6 x 4 x 6 ft at about $3,980-4,120 from a premium maker, so this size is made to order or self-built. ReptiFiles says building your own is the most cost-effective route for a snake this size. Indicative range.

$3,600–$4,120

Heating and thermostat

$60–$150

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides at both ends, water bowlTwo hides, so the snake never has to choose between security and temperature.

$40–$120

The snake

$50–$400

Monthly

Frozen rodentsAdults eat every 10-14 days or a little longer.

$8–$30

Substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Carpet Python guide →

Leopard Gecko: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $650–$1,565 · Monthly $21–$53

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 36 x 30 x 24 in, usually custom-builtStock gecko enclosures are 2 ft deep, so the 30 in depth usually means a custom build: for scale, a made-to-order 3 x 2 x 2 ft PVC enclosure lists from about $495-550 new, and a stock 6 x 3 x 3 ft one, which also covers this floor, from about $549. Indicative range.

$450–$900

Heating and thermostat

$50–$130

Low-output UVB fixture and bulbOnce considered optional for leopard geckos, current guidance favours providing it.

$45–$110

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides including a humid hide, decor

$40–$120

The gecko

$40–$250

Monthly

Live insects

$15–$35

Supplements and substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$30–$60

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Leopard Gecko guide →

Veiled Chameleon: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $725–$2,120 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 4 x 2.5 x 4 ft, usually built to orderAdult-size from the start. Stock 4 x 2 x 4 ft cages are only 24 in deep: for scale, a 4 x 2 x 4 ft PVC or hybrid enclosure lists from about $424-467 new, so expect the deeper size to cost more. Indicative range.

$500–$1,000

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Substrate and decor

$40–$150

The animalVeiled chameleons sit near the bottom of this range.

$50–$600

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

No night-time heat is costed: the veiled chameleon guide wants a night-time drop in temperature.

Read the Veiled Chameleon guide →

Mali Uromastyx: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $665–$1,720 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 4 x 3 x 2 ft or largerAdult-size from the start. Stock 4 x 2 x 2 ft enclosures are only 24 in deep, so this is usually a custom build; a stock 6 x 3 x 3 ft PVC enclosure, which also covers it, lists from about $549 new. Indicative range.

$450–$900

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Substrate and decor

$40–$150

The animal

$40–$300

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than greens or frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Read the Mali Uromastyx guide →

Madagascar Giant Day Gecko: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $855–$2,315 · Monthly $21–$53

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Custom-built enclosure, 39 x 39 x 59 inTall and planted, and not sold ready-made in this shape. For scale, a stock 4 x 2 x 4 ft PVC enclosure lists from about $424-439 new and has under three-quarters of this floor. Indicative range; custom builds vary widely.

$600–$1,500

Heating and thermostat

$50–$130

T5 high-output UVB fixture and bulbDay geckos bask in strong light and need a UVI of about 3-4 at the basking spot, which a low-output lamp over mesh will not reach.

$60–$130

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, live plants, branches and decorA one-square-metre planted floor takes far more soil and plants than a small vivarium; bagged coconut-chip substrate runs about $120-140 for 36 gallons.

$80–$250

The gecko

$40–$250

Monthly

Live insects

$15–$35

Supplements and substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$30–$60

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

Read the Madagascar Giant Day Gecko guide →

Crested Gecko and Gargoyle Gecko: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $390–$975 · Monthly $21–$53

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure, 18 x 18 x 36 in or largerA 24 x 18 x 36 in enclosure lists from about $199 new, and a 2 x 2 x 4 ft one from about $299-303.

$190–$310

Thermostat, and a low-wattage heat source only if the room falls below about 72°FSustained temperatures above about 82°F stress this species, so a strong basking lamp is usually unnecessary in a typical home.

$50–$130

Low-output UVB fixture and bulb

$45–$110

Thermometers and hygrometer

$25–$55

Substrate, hides, plants and decor

$40–$120

The gecko

$40–$250

Monthly

Complete powdered diet, plus insects once or twice a week

$15–$35

Supplements and substrate top-up

$6–$18

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$30–$60

Routine exotics vet visit

$80–$170

Emergency fund contribution

$250–$500

No heater is costed: most homes keep this gecko warm enough without one. If the room falls below about 72°F, a low-wattage, thermostat-controlled heat source adds a small running cost.

Read the Crested Gecko guide →Read the Gargoyle Gecko guide →

Red-footed Tortoise: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $1,000–$5,510 · Monthly $28–$70

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Closed, ventilated tropical enclosure, 10.5 x 5.25 ft or largerNot an open table: it has to hold 70-80% humidity. Ventilated, not sealed. A self-built plywood-and-liner chamber, or a walled-off part of a room, sits at the low end. Few ready-made enclosures come this large, so the high end is a made-to-order PVC one.

$500–$3,500

Secure outdoor penFor genuinely warm, humid weather; in most climates a summer-only option, with heated shelter on standby.

$200–$900

Heating, UVB and thermostatIncluding a lightless night heat source, because nights must not fall below about 70°F.

$100–$250

Humidifier, fogger or misting system

$40–$200

Moisture-holding substrate, leaf litter and furnishings

$60–$160

The tortoise

$100–$500

Monthly

Greens, weeds and fruitCheaper if you can grow or forage safely.

$20–$50

Supplements and substrate

$8–$20

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$35–$75

Routine exotics vet visit

$90–$190

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

A red-foot routinely outlives the person who buys it. The lifetime figure here is not a rhetorical device. Write the animal into your will.

Read the Red-footed Tortoise guide →

Red-eared Slider: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $705–$3,030 · Monthly $20–$65

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Stock tank, indoor pond or aquarium of 265 US gal or moreA 300-gallon structural-foam stock tank, about $300-480, sits at the low end; a framed indoor pond or a large purpose-made turtle tub at the high end. A glass aquarium this size costs about $4,500 or more before its stand. Filled, any of them weighs more than a tonne.

$300–$1,500

Pond or canister filtration rated at two to three times the water volumeA pressurised pond filter with a pump, or two large canister filters. Turtles produce far more waste than fish, so a filter sold for the water volume alone is not enough.

$150–$700

Two guarded submersible heaters, about 600 W in allTitanium heaters do not crack when a turtle knocks them; glass ones need a guard.

$70–$200

Dry land or basking area, about 22 x 22 in (3.2 square feet) or largerA built platform or a large above-tank basking area. Small floating docks are too small for an adult, and the turtle has to be able to get fully dry.

$40–$200

Basking lamp, UVB fixture and tubeUVB over the basking area is required for shell and bone health.

$60–$150

Water conditioner and liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. Test the water like an aquarium.

$45–$80

Water thermometer, and a temperature gun for the basking area

$20–$50

The turtleRescues rehome a great many unwanted sliders.

$20–$150

Monthly

Pellets, leafy greens and protein foods

$10–$30

Water conditioner, filter media and test reagents

$10–$35

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Equipment replacement and repairHeaters and pumps fail, usually at the worst moment.

$50–$150

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

No air heater is costed: the water heaters and the basking lamp do that job. A lid over most of the water cuts the heating bill, because most of the heat leaves by evaporation. A full 265 gal setup weighs more than a tonne, so it belongs on a ground floor or a concrete slab.

Read the Red-eared Slider guide →

Sulcata Tortoise: priced for 1 animal

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $3,860–$18,560 · Monthly $28–$70

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Hatchling and juvenile indoor enclosure, 7 x 3.5 ft or largerOutgrown within a few years. A self-built table sits at the low end, a commercial PVC enclosure at the high end.

$250–$1,000

Insulated, heated shed or outbuilding, about 10 x 10 ft, with powerAn adult cannot live indoors. A kit shed you insulate and wire yourself sits at the low end; a built shed with an electrician's wiring and a permit at the high end.

$2,500–$10,000

Outdoor grazing pen, 20 x 10 ft or larger, with a solid block wall sunk at least 12 inConcrete block, not wood or mesh, which an adult sulcata pushes through or digs under, and a predator-proof cover while it is small. Self-laid block at the low end, a mason-built wall at the high end.

$800–$6,500

Shed heating, UVB and thermostatBackground heat for the whole shed, plus a basking lamp and UVB.

$150–$400

Substrate and furnishings

$60–$160

The tortoise

$100–$500

Monthly

Grass hay, weeds and greensCheaper where the pen grows grass to graze.

$20–$50

Supplements and substrate

$8–$20

Annual

UVB bulb replacement

$35–$75

Routine exotics vet visit

$90–$190

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Most of a sulcata's cost arrives after the hatchling years: the shed, its heating and the walls. The shed-heating line is a rough year-round average; cold climates cost more and warm ones less. A sulcata routinely outlives the person who buys it, so write the animal into your will.

Read the Sulcata Tortoise guide →

Goldfish (Fancy Goldfish and Ranchu Goldfish): priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $3,365–$7,210 · Monthly $18–$55

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank and stand, at least 6.5 ft longSized for a group of five fancy goldfish. A standard 6 ft tank is too short; new 8 ft glass aquarium packages with a stand list at about $3,200-6,000 in the US, and secondhand 7 and 8 ft tanks sell for much less.

$3,000–$6,000

FilterA canister rated for about 200-250 US gallons; goldfish waste is heavy, so rate it above the tank's volume.

$200–$350

ThermometerNo heater: goldfish are coldwater fish. Fancy varieties do best at about 64-73°F, so a heater is only worth having for them in a room that runs colder; single-tails tolerate seasonal cooling.

$5–$15

Substrate, plants and decor

$60–$250

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a tank without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$20–$50

The goldfishA starting group of five, bought last, once the tank has cycled. Fancy goldfish list at about $13-120 each from a US aquarium shop; small ones cost less at chain stores.

$50–$500

Monthly

Food

$8–$25

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagentsLarge weekly water changes in a big tank use a lot of dechlorinator.

$10–$30

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairFilters and impellers fail, usually at the worst moment.

$60–$200

Read the Fancy Goldfish guide →Read the Ranchu Goldfish guide →

Danios & Minnows: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $240–$1,060 · Monthly $14–$45

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank and standA tank of water is heavy. The stand is a structural item, not furniture.

$90–$450

Filter

$30–$150

Thermometer, plus a heater only if the room runs below the species' rangeWhite clouds (about 61-72°F) need no heater and do worse kept permanently warm. Zebra danios (about 64-75°F) and celestial pearl danios (about 68-75°F) usually manage without one in a room that stays in range. If you do add one, the heated freshwater table allows about 50 W for 8 hours a day of electricity for it.

$5–$60

Substrate, plants and decor

$40–$160

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a tank without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$15–$35

The danios or minnowsA starting shoal at the species' minimum, bought last, once the tank has cycled: ten zebra danios or white clouds at about $3-6 each, or twelve celestial pearl danios at about $10-13 each.

$30–$160

Monthly

Food

$6–$20

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagents

$8–$25

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairFilters and impellers fail, usually at the worst moment.

$40–$120

Read the danios & minnow care guides →

Discus: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $600–$2,110 · Monthly $18–$55

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank and stand, 75 US gallons or moreAbout $275-480 for a standard 75-gallon tank, 4 ft long, and a basic stand; a cabinet stand or a larger tank costs more.

$275–$800

FilterGentle filtration: sponge filters cost little, and a canister rated for the tank costs about $100-250.

$30–$250

Heater and thermometerDiscus are kept at 82-86°F, which takes about 250-300 W of heating, often split between two heaters so that one failure cannot chill the tank.

$30–$80

Substrate, plants and decor

$40–$200

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a tank without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$15–$35

The discusA starting group of six, bought last, into a mature tank. Captive-bred discus list at about $50-110 each from US online retailers, and juveniles cost less from local breeders; adults and show-grade fish cost more.

$180–$700

Monthly

FoodSeveral small meals a day for growing fish, much of it frozen.

$10–$30

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagents

$8–$25

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairHeaters and impellers fail, usually at the worst moment.

$40–$150

Not included: a reverse-osmosis unit, which many discus keepers use to soften hard tap water, and the extra water and dechlorinator that several large water changes a week use.

Read the Discus guide →

Common Goldfish: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $645–$1,980 · Monthly $16–$50

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Pond liner and underlayA 15 x 20 ft 45-mil rubber liner and underlay lines a pond about 10 ft long and 3 ft deep with some to spare. Digging is not included.

$330–$700

Pond pumpAbout 2,000 US gallons an hour, enough to turn the water over at least once an hour.

$70–$360

Pond filter with UV clarifierRated for about 2,000 US gallons; goldfish waste is heavy, so rate it above the pond's volume.

$95–$340

Edging, plants and predator nettingNetting or a heron guard matters: wading birds empty unprotected ponds.

$100–$400

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a pond without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$15–$35

The goldfishA starting group of five, bought last, once the pond has cycled. Small comets cost well under $1 each at chain stores; larger pond-grade fish cost several dollars or more.

$5–$100

Monthly

FoodLess in winter, when cold fish barely eat.

$8–$25

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagents

$8–$25

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairPumps wear out, and the UV lamp needs replacing about once a year.

$50–$200

Priced as a do-it-yourself garden pond at least 10 ft long and 3 ft deep, the home most guides give common goldfish. An aquarium that size is a custom build costing several thousand dollars, and a professionally installed pond costs thousands too.

Read the Common Goldfish guide →

Comet Goldfish: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $855–$2,060 · Monthly $16–$50

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Pond liner and underlayA 20 x 20 ft 45-mil rubber liner and underlay lines a pond about 11.5 ft long and 3.5 ft deep, with a little to spare at the edges. Digging is not included.

$540–$780

Pond pumpAbout 2,000 US gallons an hour, enough to turn the water over at least once an hour.

$70–$360

Pond filter with UV clarifierRated for about 2,000 US gallons; goldfish waste is heavy, so rate it above the pond's volume.

$95–$340

Edging, plants and predator nettingNetting or a heron guard matters: wading birds empty unprotected ponds.

$100–$400

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a pond without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$15–$35

The goldfishA starting group of five, bought last, once the pond has cycled. Small comets cost well under $1 each at chain stores; larger pond-grade fish cost several dollars or more.

$5–$100

Monthly

FoodLess in winter, when cold fish barely eat.

$8–$25

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagents

$8–$25

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairPumps wear out, and the UV lamp needs replacing about once a year.

$50–$200

Priced as a do-it-yourself garden pond at least 11.5 ft long and 3.5 ft deep, the home most guides give comets. An aquarium that size is a custom build costing many thousands of dollars, and a professionally installed pond costs thousands too.

Read the Comet Goldfish guide →

Veiltail Goldfish: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $5,005–$8,710 · Monthly $18–$55

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank and stand, at least 8.5 ft long with 30 in of waterSized for a group of five veiltails. No standard tank we found is long and deep enough: the closest, an 8 x 2 x 2.5 ft glass aquarium from a US maker, lists at about $4,440-7,150 depending on the package, and it is too short and too shallow, so a tank to this size is a custom build that costs more than this line.

$4,440–$7,150

FiltersTwo canisters rated for about 250 US gallons each; goldfish waste is heavy, so rate the filtration above the tank's volume, and use spray bars or baffles to keep the flow gentle on the fins.

$400–$700

ThermometerNo heater: veiltails are coldwater fish, kept indoors at about 64-73°F, so a heater is only worth having in a room that runs colder.

$5–$15

Substrate, plants and decorSmooth only: fine sand, rounded stones and soft live plants, with nothing for the fins to catch on.

$60–$250

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a tank without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$20–$50

The goldfishA starting group of five, bought last, once the tank has cycled. Fancy goldfish list at about $13-120 each from a US aquarium shop. True veiltails are rare and bred by few hobby breeders, and many fish sold under the name are long-finned fancies with forked tails.

$50–$500

Monthly

Food

$8–$25

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagentsLarge weekly water changes in a big tank use a lot of dechlorinator.

$10–$30

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairFilters and impellers fail, usually at the worst moment.

$60–$200

The tank line is the price of the closest standard tank, which is too short and too shallow for this guide. A custom tank at least 8 ft long holding 30 in of water costs more, so treat the setup figure as a floor.

Read the Veiltail Goldfish guide →

Clownfish: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $1,530–$5,950 · Monthly $55–$170

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank, stand and sump, about 80-90 US gallonsA standard 90-gallon (48 x 18 x 24 in) glass tank lists at about $440 and a stand rated for it at about $240, and a basic acrylic sump adds about $150 or more. A complete 91-gallon reef system with stand and sump, lighting not included, lists at about $3,500.

$830–$3,500

Return pump and powerheads

$80–$300

Protein skimmer

$90–$350

Reef lightingThe line that separates a fish-only system from a coral system.

$120–$600

Rock and sandDry reef rock lists from about $3.25 a pound, and a tank this size takes several dozen pounds of it, plus the sand.

$200–$450

Salt mix, refractometer and test kitsA refractometer, calibrated with a reference solution. Swing-arm hydrometers disagree with each other for entirely legitimate reasons.

$90–$200

Quarantine tankThe cheapest insurance in the hobby, and the most commonly skipped.

$60–$150

Livestock

$60–$400

Monthly

Salt mix and RO/DI water

$25–$80

Food and additives

$15–$50

Test reagents and consumables

$15–$40

Annual

Equipment replacementPumps, heaters and lighting all have a service life.

$100–$350

The tank line, the rock and the heater are sized for an 80-90 gallon reef. The flow, skimmer, lighting and salt lines are the shared reef table's ranges, set for 20-53 gallons, so for a tank this size expect them to sit at the top of each range, and higher again for a species that needs a larger tank.

Read the clownfish care guides →

Gobies: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $1,530–$5,950 · Monthly $55–$170

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

$830–$3,500

Return pump and powerheads

$80–$300

Protein skimmer

$90–$350

Reef lightingThe line that separates a fish-only system from a coral system.

$120–$600

Rock and sandDry reef rock lists from about $3.25 a pound, and a tank this size takes several dozen pounds of it, plus the sand.

$200–$450

Salt mix, refractometer and test kitsA refractometer, calibrated with a reference solution. Swing-arm hydrometers disagree with each other for entirely legitimate reasons.

$90–$200

Quarantine tankThe cheapest insurance in the hobby, and the most commonly skipped.

$60–$150

Livestock

$60–$400

Monthly

Salt mix and RO/DI water

$25–$80

Food and additives

$15–$50

Test reagents and consumables

$15–$40

Annual

Equipment replacementPumps, heaters and lighting all have a service life.

$100–$350

Read the goby care guides →

Cardinalfish: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $1,530–$5,950 · Monthly $55–$170

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

$830–$3,500

Return pump and powerheads

$80–$300

Protein skimmer

$90–$350

Reef lightingThe line that separates a fish-only system from a coral system.

$120–$600

Rock and sandDry reef rock lists from about $3.25 a pound, and a tank this size takes several dozen pounds of it, plus the sand.

$200–$450

Salt mix, refractometer and test kitsA refractometer, calibrated with a reference solution. Swing-arm hydrometers disagree with each other for entirely legitimate reasons.

$90–$200

Quarantine tankThe cheapest insurance in the hobby, and the most commonly skipped.

$60–$150

Livestock

$60–$400

Monthly

Salt mix and RO/DI water

$25–$80

Food and additives

$15–$50

Test reagents and consumables

$15–$40

Annual

Equipment replacementPumps, heaters and lighting all have a service life.

$100–$350

Read the cardinalfish care guides →

Blennies: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $1,530–$5,950 · Monthly $55–$170

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

$830–$3,500

Return pump and powerheads

$80–$300

Protein skimmer

$90–$350

Reef lightingThe line that separates a fish-only system from a coral system.

$120–$600

Rock and sandDry reef rock lists from about $3.25 a pound, and a tank this size takes several dozen pounds of it, plus the sand.

$200–$450

Salt mix, refractometer and test kitsA refractometer, calibrated with a reference solution. Swing-arm hydrometers disagree with each other for entirely legitimate reasons.

$90–$200

Quarantine tankThe cheapest insurance in the hobby, and the most commonly skipped.

$60–$150

Livestock

$60–$400

Monthly

Salt mix and RO/DI water

$25–$80

Food and additives

$15–$50

Test reagents and consumables

$15–$40

Annual

Equipment replacementPumps, heaters and lighting all have a service life.

$100–$350

Read the blenny care guides →

Green Chromis: priced for one tank

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $1,520–$5,700 · Monthly $55–$170

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

$830–$3,500

Return pump and powerheads

$80–$300

Protein skimmer

$90–$350

Reef lightingThe line that separates a fish-only system from a coral system.

$120–$600

Rock and sandDry reef rock lists from about $3.25 a pound, and a tank this size takes several dozen pounds of it, plus the sand.

$200–$450

Salt mix, refractometer and test kitsA refractometer, calibrated with a reference solution. Swing-arm hydrometers disagree with each other for entirely legitimate reasons.

$90–$200

Quarantine tankThe cheapest insurance in the hobby, and the most commonly skipped.

$60–$150

LivestockA starting group of six chromis, bought and added together. Online retailers list a pack of six at about $52 and single fish at about $10-25.

$50–$150

Monthly

Salt mix and RO/DI water

$25–$80

Food and additives

$15–$50

Test reagents and consumables

$15–$40

Annual

Equipment replacementPumps, heaters and lighting all have a service life.

$100–$350

Read the Green Chromis guide →

Other Small Pets: priced for 2 animals

This is the general small pets cost table. It is what the tool answers with for Gerbils and Mice: every kind in this category without a table of its own.

Priced for 2 animals, the smallest group welfare allows: the group size is set by the animal, not the budget

United States (USD)Setup $212–$710 · Monthly $40–$120

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Enclosure of an adequate sizeThe single biggest line, and the one people most often under-buy.

$120–$400

The animalsAdoption from a rescue is usually cheaper and often includes a health check.

$20–$120

Water bottles, bowls, hides and enrichment

$40–$120

Carrier and travel boxNeeded on day one, not after the first emergency.

$20–$45

Digital kitchen scaleReads in grams. The cheapest diagnostic tool you will ever buy.

$12–$25

Monthly

Bedding and substrate

$15–$40

Food

$20–$60

Enrichment and chews

$5–$20

Annual

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$70–$160

Emergency fund contributionNot optional. A single out-of-hours exotics visit can exceed this.

$300–$600

Browse all Small Pets →

Other Reptiles: priced for 1 animal

This is the general reptiles cost table. It is what the tool answers with for Skinks: every kind in this category without a table of its own.

Priced for 1 animal

United States (USD)Setup $465–$1,320 · Monthly $23–$85

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

EnclosureAdult-size from the start. Buying a juvenile enclosure means buying twice. A 4 x 2 x 2 ft enclosure, which covers the fire skink's 35 x 24 in floor, lists from about $259-303 new. The Mali uromastyx has its own profile.

$250–$500

Heating and thermostatA thermostat is not optional. Unregulated heat sources cause contact burns.

$60–$180

UVB fixture and bulbRequired for most diurnal species.

$50–$130

Thermometers and hygrometerDigital with a probe. Stick-on dials are not accurate enough to keep an animal on.

$25–$60

Substrate and decor

$40–$150

The animal

$40–$300

Monthly

FoodLive insects cost far more than greens or frozen rodents.

$15–$60

Substrate top-up and supplements

$8–$25

Annual

UVB bulb replacementOn a calendar, not on appearance: output fails long before the light does.

$30–$80

Routine exotics vet visitIncludes the specialist premium.

$80–$180

Emergency fund contribution

$300–$600

Browse all Reptiles →

Other Freshwater Fish: priced for one tank

This is the general freshwater fish cost table. It is what the tool answers with for Bettas, Guppy, Endler's Livebearer, Platy, Molly, Swordtail, Tetras, Rasboras, Barbs, Catfish, Loaches, Cichlids, Gouramis, Shrimp, Pufferfish, Rainbowfish and Snails: every kind in this category without a table of its own.

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $235–$1,020 · Monthly $14–$45

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank and standA tank of water is heavy. The stand is a structural item, not furniture.

$90–$450

Filter

$30–$150

Heater and thermometer

$25–$60

Substrate, plants and decor

$40–$160

Liquid test kitLiquid, not strips. You cannot cycle a tank without one.

$30–$45

Dechlorinator and starter supplies

$15–$35

The animalsA starting group at the species' minimum, from about $5 for a single betta or snail to $120 or more for a larger shoal. Bought last, weeks after everything else: the tank has to be cycled first.

$5–$120

Monthly

Food

$6–$20

Dechlorinator, filter media and test reagents

$8–$25

Annual

Equipment replacement and repairHeaters and impellers fail, usually at the worst moment.

$40–$120

Browse all Freshwater Fish →

Other Saltwater Fish: priced for one tank

This is the general saltwater fish cost table. It is what the tool answers with for Basslets, Tangs, Dwarf Angelfish, Wrasses, Dragonets, Dottybacks, Shrimp, Rabbitfish, Hawkfish and Snails: every kind in this category without a table of its own.

Priced for one tank, stocked with a starting group at the species' minimum

United States (USD)Setup $880–$3,450 · Monthly $55–$170

Electricity is not in these totals. The calculator adds it from the equipment's wattage once you enter your tariff.

Setup

Tank, stand and sumpPriced for a 20-53 gal reef.

$300–$1,200

Return pump and powerheads

$80–$300

Protein skimmer

$90–$350

Reef lightingThe line that separates a fish-only system from a coral system.

$120–$600

Rock and sand

$80–$250

Salt mix, refractometer and test kitsA refractometer, calibrated with a reference solution. Swing-arm hydrometers disagree with each other for entirely legitimate reasons.

$90–$200

Quarantine tankThe cheapest insurance in the hobby, and the most commonly skipped.

$60–$150

Livestock

$60–$400

Monthly

Salt mix and RO/DI water

$25–$80

Food and additives

$15–$50

Test reagents and consumables

$15–$40

Annual

Equipment replacementPumps, heaters and lighting all have a service life.

$100–$350

Browse all Saltwater Fish →

More tools

All the tools → Finding an exotics vet →

Keep going

134 care guides, same data

Every number these tools use comes from the species guides. Read the one for your animal.

Browse the care guides →