Where to find aquariums in your area

The fastest way to buy an aquarium is a local pet store or big-box retailer within driving distance. Pet Supplies Plus, Petco, and PetSmart have locations across the country and stock tanks in multiple sizes — usually 10-gallon, 20-gallon, and 55-gallon models on the shelf. Home Depot and Lowe's carry aquariums in their pet sections, often at lower prices than specialty pet stores, though selection is narrower.

Local independent pet shops often have smaller inventories but staff who know the equipment and can answer questions about setup. You can see the tank in person, check for cracks or defects, and take it home the same day. Search "aquarium store near me" or "pet store near me" in Google Maps to find what is open today and check their hours before you go.

Walmart carries basic aquariums in many locations, primarily in the 10 to 20-gallon range. Availability varies by store, so call ahead or check their website to confirm they have the size you want in stock.

Key Takeaways

  • Pet Supplies Plus, Petco, and PetSmart have the widest selection of tank sizes and are in most areas, with prices that vary by location and current promotions.
  • Home Depot and Lowe's stock aquariums at competitive prices but carry fewer models and sizes than specialty pet retailers.
  • Local independent pet shops let you inspect the tank before buying and offer staff information, though they may have fewer options in stock.
  • Online retailers like Amazon and Chewy ship tanks to your door but charge shipping fees that can be substantial for large aquariums.
  • Buying in person lets you check for damage and take the tank home when ready, while online ordering takes several days and requires careful packaging inspection.

Online retailers and shipping considerations

Amazon and Chewy both ship aquariums, but shipping costs are high because tanks are heavy and fragile. A 55-gallon aquarium can cost $15 to $40 to ship depending on your location and the retailer's shipping policy. Read the return policy carefully — if the tank arrives cracked, you need to know whether the seller will replace it or refund your money.

Chewy often offers free shipping on orders over a certain amount, which can offset the cost if you are buying the tank plus filters, gravel, and other supplies at the same time. Amazon Prime members may may have access to for free or discounted shipping on some aquarium models, though this varies by item and location.

Specialty online aquarium retailers like Aqueon and Marineland sell directly through their websites. Shipping is still expensive, but these companies often have detailed product information and may offer tanks in sizes or styles that big retailers do not stock.

What to check before you buy

Whether you buy in person or online, verify the tank dimensions match your space. A 20-gallon aquarium is not the same size as a 20-gallon long — the long version is wider and shallower. Measure your stand or shelf before you leave the store or place an order.

Check whether the price includes a hood, light, or stand. Many retailers sell the tank alone, and you will need to buy these separately. A complete kit — tank, hood, light, and sometimes a filter — costs more upfront but saves you from multiple shopping trips.

Inspect the tank for cracks, chips, or cloudiness in the glass if you are buying in person. If you order online, open the box when ready and check for damage before you set it up. Most retailers will not replace a tank if you wait days to report the damage.

Price differences between retailers

A 20-gallon aquarium typically costs between $25 and $50 depending on the retailer and whether it is a basic model or part of a kit. Pet Supplies Plus and Petco prices are usually similar, within a few dollars of each other. Home Depot and Lowe's often undercut specialty pet stores by $5 to $10 on the same model.

Walmart prices are competitive on basic tanks but carries fewer premium or specialty models. Online prices on Amazon vary by seller and can be higher or lower than local stores — compare before you buy.

Watch for sales around holidays. Many retailers discount aquarium kits in January (New Year's resolutions) and around back-to-school season in August. Signing up for email newsletters from Petco and PetSmart alerts you to promotions in your area.

Buying used aquariums

Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Nextdoor often have used aquariums for sale at half the retail price. Inspect the tank carefully for cracks, especially along the seams and bottom — a leak will destroy the tank and everything in it. Ask the seller how long they used it and why they are selling.

Used tanks may have mineral deposits or algae buildup on the glass. These clean off with vinegar and a soft cloth, but heavy buildup takes time. A used tank in good condition is a good deal, but a cracked or leaking tank is worthless no matter the price.

Test a used tank before you fill it with fish. Set it up empty, fill it with water, and let it sit for 24 hours to confirm it does not leak. If it passes, drain it, clean it, and set it up for real.

Specialty and unusual tank sizes

If you want a hexagon, corner, or bow-front aquarium, specialty pet shops and online retailers are your best options. Big-box stores stock only rectangular tanks in standard sizes. Expect to pay more for unusual shapes — a 20-gallon hexagon costs $50 to $80, compared to $25 to $35 for a standard rectangular 20-gallon.

Aqueon, Marineland, and Fluval make specialty tanks and sell through their websites and through specialty retailers. Availability varies, so call ahead or check online before making a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return an aquarium if it leaks after I set it up?

Most retailers will not accept returns on tanks that have been filled with water. Return policies vary — Petco and PetSmart typically allow returns within 30 days if the tank is unused and in original packaging. Read the receipt or check the retailer's website for their specific policy before you buy.

Is it cheaper to buy a kit or buy the tank and equipment separately?

Kits are usually cheaper overall because retailers bundle items at a discount. A 20-gallon kit with tank, hood, light, and filter costs $60 to $80, while buying each piece separately runs $80 to $120. The trade-off is that kit equipment is often lower quality than what you would choose individually.

What size aquarium should I start with?

A 20-gallon tank is easier to maintain than a 10-gallon and gives fish more room. Larger tanks are more stable — water temperature and chemistry change more slowly — so they are actually easier for beginners. A 20 or 30-gallon tank is a better choice than a 10-gallon if you have the space.

Do I need to buy the stand from the same place as the tank?

No. Aquarium stands are sold separately at pet stores, big-box retailers, and online. Measure your tank's footprint and weight before you buy a stand — it must support the full weight of water, gravel, and decorations, which is much heavier than the empty tank.

How long does shipping usually take for online aquarium orders?

Standard shipping takes five to seven business days for most retailers. Expedited shipping is available but costs more and is not necessary unless you are in a hurry. Chewy and Amazon Prime offer faster options in some areas, but check the estimated delivery date before you order.