How Much Do Betta Fish Cost?

Last Updated on June 19, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

With their vibrant, flowing fins and striking colors, betta fish have surged in popularity as exotic freshwater aquarium pets. But before bringing one of these prized Siamese fighting fish at home, it’s important to understand the costs involved in properly caring for them.

Let’s get into the specifics so you can plan your budget and give your new colorful companion the best care.

How Much Do Betta Fish Cost?

On average, betta fish costs from $5 to $40 based on type, color, age, health, and source. Rare specimen-quality show bettas can cost $75 to $100+. Beyond the fish itself, expect to invest an additional $100 to $300+ to setup a suitable heated, filtered tank habitat with all the essential accessories.

Many different betta breeds and species exist, each with their own typical price ranges:

• Veiltail – The most common pet store betta for $5 to $15. Flowing fins that droop downwards.
• Crowntail – Elegant spiky fan-shaped fins. More expensive than veiltails at $15 to $25.
• Halfmoon – Dramatic 180-degree fan-shaped tail. Prices range from $20 to $40.
• Plakat – Streamlined short-finned variety ideal for swimming. Often extra feisty. $15 to $25.
• Double Tail – Standout double-finned tail. Generally, $25 to $50.
• Delta – Full rounded tail with striking web reduction – $20 to $35.
• Wild Betta Species – $40 to $75 for exciting native species like Imbellis, Mahachai, and Channoides.

In general, common veiltails go for $5 to $20 in big chain stores, while elaborate types sold online or by specialty breeders run $20 to $100+ depending on rarity.

AquariumStoreDepot reports that the average betta fish costs below twenty dollars, with many great fish selling for as little as three dollars. They highlight that the most expensive betta fish in the world sold for $1,530 in 2016, and that the rarest betta fish and newest breeds are the most expensive.

PetSmart offers a discounted price of $3.29 for a female betta fish, which is a significant reduction from the original price of $3.99. They also have other betta fish available for purchase, including the Platinum Betta for $29.99.

AquariumFish.com lists a variety of betta fish for sale, including the Halfmoon Betta Male for $18.69 and the Betta Male for $30.89. They also have a sale section with discounted prices for certain betta fish.

Petco offers a range of betta fish for sale, including the Blue Alien Betta for $29.99, the Male Samurai Betta for $19.99, and the Female Crowntail Betta for $3.99. They also have a section for Halfmoon Betta fish, with prices ranging from $3.99 to $29.99.

Factors Affecting the Price of Betta Fish

Several factors significantly influence betta pricing:

• Age – Younger juvenile fish around 3-5 months old are best and warrant premium pricing. Mature adults over 1 year fetch lower pricing.
• Color and Markings – Shimmering metallic colors or rare patterns like butterfly or marble cost more. Solid reds and blues are most affordable.
• Fins and Tail Type – The most elaborate plumes and tails raise values and prices considerably. Short-finned female bettas cost much less.
• Breeding Capabilities – Proven males retain higher pricing for their fry-producing potential. Unproven young males are cheaper.
• Health Condition – Vibrant bettas actively darting about are pricier than lethargic fish floating in place. Only choose alert, eager feeders.
• Gender – Brilliantly-colored males boast elaborate flowing fins and cost 2-3 times more than plainer females.
• Rarity – Unusual colors and imported exotic wilds command premium collector pricing. Common locally-bred fish are most economical.
• Seller Reputation – Top specialty breeders understandably charge higher prices than mass-producing fish farms.

Tank Setup and Ongoing Supply Costs

In addition to buying the fish itself, owners need to budget for:

• Tank – Basic 1–5-gallon acrylic tanks or bowls cost $15 to $40. Larger heated filtered tanks for active bettas run $50 to $300.
• Heater – Bettas require consistent warm tropical 78-82F water. Heaters start around $15 to $60 depending on tank size.
• Filter – Low-flow external filters start at $20. Avoid strong currents that stress bettas.
• Plants – Live plants or silk plants for resting spots cost $10 to $30. Avoid sharp plastic decor.
• Gravel – Natural colored gravel substrate is $10 to $20 for a 5 lb. bag. river rock.
• Cave Ornaments – Betta hides, pagodas, and rock caves range $10 to $40.
• LED Lighting – Required for live plants to thrive. LED hoods start around $25.

In total, budget $100 to $300+ to setup a suitable heated, filtered betta tank with all the essential accessories and decorations.

Ongoing costs for water conditioners, food, replacing filter cartridges, testing kits and other maintenance supplies add $15 to $50 per month.

Where to Buy Betta Fish

Popular places to purchase bettas include:

• Pet Stores – Chain locations like Petco and Petsmart sell common veiltails for $5 to $15 in tiny cups.
• Specialty Aquarium Stores – Local fish stores offer more unique domestic and imported bettas ranging $15 to $75 with better housing.
• Online Shops – eBay, Aquabid, specialty retailers sell exotic bettas from $40 to $100+ but include shipping costs.
• Breeders – Passionate hobbyists focused on improving betta traits and colors. Wide pricing spectrum.
• Wholesalers – Larger operations focused on mass importing and distribution to pet stores. Varying pricing tiers.
• Auctions/Shows – Events for buying/selling rare, high-quality bettas available to hobbyist collectors and breeders. Prices span the spectrum depending on attributes and demand.

Shop around through various channels to find the perfect betta matching your budget. Local stores allow you to inspect fish in person before purchase.

5 Tips for Smart Betta Buying

Follow these tips to choose a healthy, vibrant betta fish:

• Observe coloring, finnage, scales, and overall energy. Select the most active, alert fish possible. Shy and hiding fish often indicate illness.
• Thoroughly research the type you want and determine realistic pricing so you don’t overpay in excitement for a fish.
• Ask sellers questions about the betta’s age, diet, health history, tank conditions, and care requirements before purchase.
• Have your heated, filtered tank fully cycled and ready before buying so you can transfer your betta promptly to its new home.
• Obtain at least a 14-day health guarantee from the seller in case issues arise right after bringing your fish home. This provides recourse if problems surface.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a lionfish, a goldfish, or a pufferfish.

Taking the time to make an informed purchase decision results in adding a healthy, flashy betta to your tank.

Budgeting Smartly for Ownership

Here are some tips to keep betta costs affordable:

• Opt for common varieties like veiltails or females that offer beauty on a budget. Save the splurging for later once experienced.
• Choose smaller 1–2-gallon tank sizes for pets only interested in watching betta antics, saving on larger tank costs.
• Buy supplies in bulk when possible – extra food, water conditioners, tank supplies = lower per-unit pricing.
• Start with plastic plants and basic gravel substrates, upgrading later with live plants to test your green thumb first.
• Let others know you’re entering the betta hobby – they may gift supplies or hand down old tanks to help you get started!

Final Words

From flowing crowntails to the feisty plakat, bettas captivate aquarists with their colors, fluid fins, and lively personalities. While economical veiltails cost just $5 to $20, the rarest breeds and most elaborate show-quality specimens can fetch $75 to $100+. Factor in $100 to $300+ for a properly heated, filtered tank and accessories suited to your pet’s needs.

While not the cheapest fish, caring for bettas rewards hobbyists with an interactive underwater pal. Do your homework to find the perfect betta type matching your budget so you can both thrive together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to know before buying a betta fish?

Research proper tank setup, food, ideal water conditions. Budget for expenses beyond the fish itself. Decide which betta type you want and find a reputable seller or store. Prepare the tank ahead of time so it’s ready for your new fish when you bring it home. Read up on betta care guides to become an informed owner.

How long can betta fish survive shipping?

Bettas are hardy fish adapted for low oxygen environments. When properly packaged by reputable sellers, they can survive 24–48-hour express shipping. Insulated packaging, heat packs, oxygen bags, and express transit minimize risks. Open the bag immediately to acclimate upon arrival.

Can I leave my betta fish for 2 days?

Yes, betta fish can safely be left alone for up to 2 days if their tank is well-maintained. Ensure the tank is heated, filtered, has live/silk plants, and use an automatic feeder to dispense a couple feedings. Perform a partial water change before leaving. Any longer than 2-3 days requires a fish sitter.

Is it better to have 1 or 2 betta fish?

Keep male bettas solitary. Female bettas can live together in “sororities” of 5-10 with lots of space. Never combine 2 males – they will fight aggressively. Introduce any new tankmates gradually. Avoid overcrowding. Give each fish their own territory.