Fish tank costs range from $100 to $500 for a basic setup, depending on tank size and what you already own
A small aquarium (10 to 20 gallons) with filter, heater, lights, and substrate costs between $100 and $200 if you buy everything new. A medium tank (40 to 55 gallons) runs $250 to $400. Larger tanks (75+ gallons) start at $500 and climb quickly. The tank itself is usually the smallest expense — a 20-gallon glass tank costs $30 to $60 — but the equipment around it adds up fast.
Your actual cost depends on three things: tank size, whether you buy new or used, and what you already have at home. A used 55-gallon tank with filter and stand might cost $150 total at a local aquarium club or online marketplace, while the same setup new at a pet store runs $350. If you already own a filter or heater from a previous tank, you can skip that purchase and save $50 to $100.
Key Takeaways
- A complete beginner setup for a 20-gallon tank costs $100 to $200 new, or $60 to $100 used.
- The tank itself is cheap; the filter, heater, lights, and stand make up most of the cost.
- Buying used equipment from aquarium clubs or online marketplaces cuts costs by 40 to 50 percent.
- Monthly maintenance costs (food, water treatments, electricity) run $10 to $30 depending on tank size and fish type.
- Fish themselves are usually $5 to $30 each, but some specialty species cost much more.
Breaking down the equipment costs for a 20-gallon starter tank
A 20-gallon tank is the most common size for beginners because it is large enough to keep several fish healthy but small enough to fit on a desk or shelf. Here is what you will spend on each piece:
| Item | New Price Range | Used Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Glass or acrylic tank (20 gallons) | $30–$60 | $15–$30 |
| Stand or cabinet | $40–$80 | $20–$40 |
| Filter (hang-on or internal) | $25–$50 | $10–$25 |
| Heater (if needed) | $20–$40 | $8–$15 |
| LED light hood | $30–$60 | $15–$30 |
| Substrate (gravel or sand) | $10–$20 | $5–$10 |
| Decorations and plants | $20–$50 | $10–$25 |
| Total | $175–$360 | $83–$175 |
The stand is often the biggest single cost because it must support the weight of water (a 20-gallon tank weighs about 170 pounds when full). A basic wooden stand from a pet store costs $40 to $80, but you can use a sturdy bookshelf or cabinet you already own and save that money entirely.
The filter is non-negotiable — it removes waste and keeps the water safe for fish. A hang-on-back filter (the most common type for small tanks) costs $25 to $50 new. Internal filters and sponge filters are cheaper ($15 to $25) but take up space inside the tank. Used filters are often a bargain because they last for years if you replace the media.
How tank size affects your total spending
Larger tanks cost more upfront but are often easier to maintain because the water stays cleaner longer. A 10-gallon tank might seem cheaper, but it requires more frequent water changes and limits which fish you can keep. A 40-gallon breeder tank or 55-gallon standard tank gives you more flexibility and usually costs only $100 to $150 more than a 20-gallon setup.
Very large tanks (75 gallons and up) require heavy-duty stands, powerful filters, and stronger heaters. A 75-gallon setup typically costs $500 to $800 new. These tanks also need more electricity to run — a large heater and filter can add $15 to $25 to your monthly power bill. Before buying a large tank, measure your floor space and check that your electrical outlet can handle the load.
Where to save money on your first tank
Buy used equipment from local aquarium clubs, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. People often sell complete setups when they leave the hobby, and you can negotiate the price. Always inspect used tanks for cracks or leaks by filling them with water in the seller's driveway before you take them home. Used filters and heaters are safe to buy as long as they still power on and run quietly.
Skip expensive decorations at first. Rocks, driftwood, and plants can wait until your tank is established. Start with basic gravel and one or two hiding spots so the fish feel find. You can add decorations later for $5 to $20 each as your budget allows.
Buy fish food and water treatments only when you need them. A single container of quality fish food costs $8 to $15 and lasts two to three months for a small tank. Water conditioner (which removes chlorine) costs $10 to $20 per bottle and lasts six months or longer. Do not stock up on supplies you have not used yet.
Monthly costs after your tank is set up
Once your tank is running, expect to spend $10 to $30 per month on maintenance. This includes fish food ($3 to $8), water conditioner and treatments ($2 to $5), electricity for the filter and heater ($3 to $12), and replacement filter media ($2 to $5). These costs stay roughly the same whether you have a 20-gallon or 55-gallon tank, though larger tanks use more electricity.
You may also need to replace equipment over time. A filter typically lasts three to five years before the motor wears out. A heater lasts two to four years. Budget $20 to $50 per year for replacements so you are not caught off guard when something fails.
Fish prices and specialty tank costs
Common fish like tetras, guppies, and corydoras catfish cost $3 to $8 each at most pet stores. Slightly fancier fish like dwarf gouramis or small plecos run $10 to $20. Specialty fish — rare color morphs, large cichlids, or saltwater species — can cost $30 to $100 or more per fish.
Saltwater tanks are significantly more expensive than freshwater. A basic saltwater setup (30 gallons) costs $400 to $800 because you need a protein skimmer, powerheads, and live rock in addition to the standard equipment. Saltwater fish also cost more ($15 to $50 each for common species). If you are new to aquariums, start with freshwater.
Planted tanks (tanks with live aquatic plants) add $30 to $100 to your startup cost because plants need special substrate, fertilizers, and often stronger lighting. However, plants help keep the water clean and reduce how often you need to change the water, which can save money over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up a fish tank for under $100?
Yes, if you buy used equipment and already own a stand or cabinet. A used 10 or 20-gallon tank with filter, heater, and basic decorations often sells for $50 to $80 total. Add $10 to $20 for gravel, water conditioner, and fish food, and you are under $100. The trade-off is that smaller tanks require more frequent maintenance.
What is the cheapest type of fish tank to maintain?
A 20-gallon freshwater tank with hardy fish like guppies, tetras, or corydoras catfish costs the least to maintain. These fish tolerate small mistakes, do not need expensive food or treatments, and thrive in basic conditions. Avoid saltwater, planted, or specialty tanks if you want to keep costs low.
Do I need to buy everything at once?
No. Set up the tank and filter first, then add the heater after a few days once you see the temperature. Buy decorations and plants gradually as your budget allows. The only things you cannot skip are the tank, filter, and (for most fish) a heater.
How much does it cost to run a fish tank per month?
Electricity, food, and water treatments combined cost $10 to $30 per month for a small to medium tank. A large tank with a powerful heater might cost $30 to $50 per month. This is much cheaper than most other pets.
Is it cheaper to buy a kit or individual pieces?
Kits (which bundle a tank, filter, heater, and lights together) sometimes look cheaper on the price tag but often include low-quality equipment that fails quickly. Buying pieces separately costs a bit more upfront but lets you choose reliable brands and replace items individually when they wear out.