Goldfish are often seen as the perfect starter pet—low maintenance, peaceful, and budget-friendly. But how much does a goldfish actually cost? The truth is, while the fish itself may only set you back a few bucks, the total cost of owning a goldfish adds up quickly when you factor in the essentials like tanks, filters, food, and care supplies.
In this guide, we’ll break down the real cost of owning a goldfish—from the initial purchase to long-term maintenance—so you know exactly what to expect before bringing one (or more) home.
The Price of a Goldfish: How Much Do They Cost?
1. Basic Goldfish
You can find common goldfish varieties like the Comet or Common goldfish at most pet stores for around $0.30 to $5. They’re inexpensive because they’re hardy and bred in large numbers.
2. Fancy Goldfish
Fancy varieties like Orandas, Ryukins, Ranchus, and Black Moors are more expensive, ranging from $10 to $100+ depending on the rarity, size, and breeder.
- Oranda goldfish: $20–$60
- Black Moor goldfish: $10–$25
- Ranchu goldfish: $30–$80
- Bubble Eye or Celestial Eye goldfish: $20–$50
Some rare imported show-quality goldfish (like Tosakin or high-end Ranchus) can even cost $200 to $500+ from specialty breeders or auctions.
3. Goldfish from Online Stores
Buying goldfish online from trusted breeders or specialty stores usually costs more than buying from a pet shop but often means better genetics, health, and care.
Hidden Costs of Owning a Goldfish
While the goldfish itself is usually cheap, setting up a proper and healthy environment is where the bulk of your investment goes.
Let’s take a look at what else you’ll need:
Aquarium Setup
Contrary to the outdated belief that goldfish thrive in bowls, they actually need a large, filtered tank. A healthy goldfish can grow over 6–8 inches, and even bigger in some cases.
- Tank (20 gallons minimum for one goldfish): $50 to $150
- Filter system (essential for clean water): $20 to $80
- Heater (optional, most goldfish prefer room temp): $15 to $30
- Air pump and decorations: $10 to $50
- Substrate (gravel or sand): $10 to $30
Food and Supplies
Goldfish require a balanced diet of pellets, flakes, and occasional fresh or frozen food.
- Quality goldfish food: $5–$15/month
- Water conditioner: $5–$10 every 1–2 months
- Test kits for ammonia, nitrite, pH: $15–$25
- Water siphon/gravel vacuum: $10–$20
Monthly Maintenance
Running a filter, replacing water, and feeding are routine but necessary. Most goldfish owners spend around $10 to $30/month on average for food, water treatments, and minor gear replacements.
Total Estimated Goldfish Ownership Cost
Here’s a quick breakdown of the initial and recurring costs:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
| Goldfish | $0.30 to $100+ |
| Aquarium (20–40 gallons) | $50 to $150 |
| Filter and accessories | $30 to $100 |
| Food and supplies (monthly) | $10 to $30 |
| Decorations and substrate | $10 to $50 |
| Test kits and water conditioner | $20 to $40 |
| First Year Total | $150 to $400+ |
| Ongoing Yearly Cost | $100 to $250 |
Goldfish may cost under $10 to purchase, but proper tanks and care are necessary for long-term health, potentially costing hundreds over time.
Why Proper Setup Matters
Goldfish can live 10 to 20 years—some even reach 30 with great care. But without a filter, proper diet, or enough space, many goldfish die young. Investing upfront means your fish won’t just survive—they’ll thrive.
- Overcrowding is a common issue: Too many goldfish in a small tank causes ammonia buildup and illness.
- Goldfish are messy eaters: They produce a lot of waste, making a strong filter essential.
- They need stimulation: Goldfish are surprisingly smart. Enrichment through plants and decorations improves their well-being.
Are Goldfish Still Worth It?
Absolutely! Goldfish are colorful, charming, and full of personality. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned aquarist, they’re a joy to care for—as long as you’re prepared.
If you go the minimalist route, expect to spend $150 to $200 initially. For a more elaborate or fancy setup, the total could run closer to $300 to $500.
It’s not about the cost of the fish—it’s about the cost of the proper environment.
FAQs About Goldfish Costs
Q: Can I keep goldfish in a bowl?
A: While it’s common to see goldfish in bowls, it’s not recommended. Bowls are too small, lack filtration, and lead to poor water quality. A 20-gallon tank is a much better start.
Q: Are fancy goldfish harder to care for than common goldfish?
A: Fancy goldfish are a bit more delicate and need extra care. They’re prone to swim bladder issues and may require gentler filtration and specialized diets.
Q: How much do goldfish live?
A: With good care, common goldfish can live 10–20 years, while fancy varieties usually live 6–10 years. Longevity depends heavily on water quality and tank conditions.
Q: Can I buy goldfish online?
A: Yes! Many reputable breeders sell goldfish online with better genetics and health standards than pet stores. Just expect to pay more for shipping and handling.
Q: Is it cheaper to get multiple goldfish at once?
A: Sometimes pet stores offer discounts for buying multiple, but remember: more fish = bigger tank = higher setup and maintenance costs.
Final Thoughts
Goldfish may seem inexpensive at first glance, but they’re a long-term commitment that requires more than just a fishbowl. With the right setup, food, and care, your goldfish can live a long, healthy, and happy life.
So if you’re thinking of adding a goldfish to your home, consider the total picture—not just the price tag at the store. A few extra dollars now can make all the difference in giving your new pet the life it deserves.
