How Much Does a Fish Tank Setup Really Cost? (Tank, Equipment, Fish & Ongoing Costs)

Starting an aquarium setup is an exciting journey, but it can also be a pricey one. From the cost of the tank to the equipment, fish, and ongoing maintenance, the expenses can quickly add up. Whether you’re setting up a small 10 gallon tank or dreaming of an enormous 5000 gallon setup, understanding the costs involved will help you plan your aquarium budget. In this guide, we’ll break down the expenses, covering everything from the tank itself to the essential equipment, fish, decor, and ongoing costs of maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. Let’s dive in!

Initial Cost Breakdown: The Tank Itself (Glass vs. Acrylic, Size)

The tank is the biggest upfront expense when setting up your aquarium. The size and material (glass vs. acrylic) will have a significant impact on the price. Glass aquariums are generally more affordable, and you can find standard tanks in various sizes, ranging from small 10-gallon models to larger 100-gallon tanks. The price increases with the size and thickness of the glass. Acrylic tanks, while lighter and more impact-resistant, are typically more expensive due to the material’s cost and customization potential. For example, a 20-gallon acrylic tank might cost you anywhere from $100 to $250, while the same size in glass could be more budget-friendly, at around $50 to $150.

When planning your aquarium budget, consider whether you’re investing in a standard setup or a custom design, as custom-built acrylic tanks can significantly increase your costs. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Glass Tank (10-20 gallons): $50–$200

• Acrylic Tank (10-20 gallons): $100–$300+

• Larger Tanks (50+ gallons, Glass): $300–$1,000

• Larger Tanks (50+ gallons, Acrylic): $500–$2,000+

Essential Equipment Costs (Filter, Heater, Lighting, Stand, Substrate)

After the tank, the essential equipment makes up the next major part of your budget. These items are crucial for the health and stability of your aquatic environment. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for equipment:

• Filter: Depending on the tank size and type of filter (e.g., hang-on-back or canister), filters range from $20 for small tanks to $200+ for larger tanks.

• Heater: For tropical fish, a reliable heater is necessary, especially for tanks over 10 gallons. Expect to pay between $15 to $100 depending on the wattage and brand.

• Lighting: LED lights are a popular and energy-efficient choice, costing anywhere from $20 for smaller tanks to $200 for high-quality lighting systems designed for larger or planted tanks.

• Stand: A sturdy stand is essential, particularly for larger tanks. For a 20-75 gallon tank, expect to pay $50–$200, and for a custom stand, prices can go well over $500.

• Substrate (Gravel, Sand, etc.): Depending on the material, substrate can cost $1–$3 per pound. A 20 gallon tank could need around 20-30 pounds of substrate, costing $20–$90.

Overall, you can expect to spend:

• Small Tank (10-20 gallons): $100–$300 for equipment

• Mid-Size Tank (30-75 gallons): $200–$600 for equipment

• Large Tank (100+ gallons): $500–$1,500+

The Cost of Decor (Rocks, Wood, Plants)

Decor is another important part of your aquarium setup, adding both beauty and functionality. Rocks, driftwood, and plants help create a natural environment for your fish. The cost of decor varies widely depending on the type of material and whether it’s live or artificial:

• Live Plants: $1–$5 per plant, depending on size and species.

• Rocks/Driftwood: $10–$50 per piece, with larger or rare pieces costing much more.

• Artificial Decorations: These can be inexpensive, ranging from $5–$50 depending on size and quality.

For a 20-gallon tank, you could expect to spend around $30–$100 on decor, while larger tanks may require more investment to fill the space. Don’t forget that the decor will also add to the overall weight of the aquarium, so it’s essential to consider the stability of your tank setup.

How Much Do Aquarium Fish Cost?

The cost of fish varies greatly depending on the species you choose. Basic fish like goldfish or guppies are relatively inexpensive, often costing under $5 per fish, while specialty or exotic species can range from $10 to $100 or more. For example:

• Betta Fish: $5–$20

• Neon Tetras: $1–$3 per fish

• Angelfish: $5–$20

• Cichlids (e.g., Discus): $20–$100

• Marine Fish: $20–$200+, with rare species costing much more

If you’re stocking a 20 gallon tank, you might spend around $30–$100 on fish, depending on the species. For larger tanks, the cost of stocking can increase significantly, especially if you opt for rarer or more expensive fish.

Ongoing Costs: Food, Water Conditioner, Electricity, Maintenance Supplies

In addition to the initial setup costs, maintaining your aquarium incurs ongoing expenses. Some of the common ongoing costs include:

• Fish Food: $5–$20 per month, depending on the number and type of fish.

• Water Conditioner: $5–$15 per bottle, which lasts a couple of months.

• Electricity: The cost of running your tank’s equipment (heater, filter, lighting) can add to your electricity bill. For a small tank, this may only be a few dollars per month, but for larger tanks, the cost can increase to $20–$50 per month.

• Maintenance Supplies: Items like cleaning supplies, replacement filter cartridges, water test kits, and algae scrubbers can add up to $10–$20 per month.

Example Budgets for Common Tank Sizes (10, 20, 55 Gallon)

Here’s a rough budget estimate for common tank sizes:

How Much Does a 5000 Gallon Fish Tank Cost? (Factors for Extreme Setups)

A 5000 gallon fish tank is a massive undertaking, both in terms of cost and space. These tanks are often custom-built and require extensive filtration systems, pumps, and plumbing, all of which add to the price. Expect costs to range from $50,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on the materials (acrylic or glass), customization, and installation. Additionally, running a tank of this size involves significant ongoing costs for electricity, water treatment, and fish care.

For a 5000 gallon tank, you're looking at a major investment—not only for the setup but for continuous maintenance and care.

Finding Tanks "For Sale": New vs. Used, Kits vs. Separate Components

When shopping for a tank, you have the option of buying new or used. New tanks typically come with warranties and are often in better condition, but they can be expensive. Used tanks can offer significant savings, especially for larger setups, but always inspect them for damage and wear, especially when buying glass tanks that could have cracks or scratches. Another option is to purchase aquarium kits, which include the tank, filtration system, and heater at a bundle price, often saving you money. On the other hand, buying separate components allows you to customize your setup but can be more expensive.

Cost-Saving Tips for Aquarium Hobbyists

To save on aquarium costs:

• Look for used equipment or discounted kits.

• Consider DIY projects for stands and aquascaping.

• Shop around for fish and decor, especially for less expensive species and plants.

• Monitor your energy consumption by using efficient equipment like LED lights and low-power filters.

By being mindful of your choices and taking advantage of sales or second-hand options, you can enjoy your hobby without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

The cost of setting up and maintaining an aquarium varies greatly depending on the size of the tank, the type of fish, and the equipment you choose. From the initial setup of tank and equipment to ongoing costs like fish food, water conditioners, and electricity, the financial commitment of fishkeeping should be considered carefully. While larger tanks and custom setups can run into the thousands, smaller tanks can be affordable for hobbyists on a budget. By planning ahead, comparing prices, and being mindful of ongoing expenses, you can enjoy a beautiful aquarium that fits both your fish's needs and your budget.

Happy fishkeeping, and may your aquarium thrive without costing more than it needs to!