20 Gallon Starter
Tank kit: $80-150. Substrate, decor: $40-80. Water conditioner, test kit: $30-50.
First fish (6 to 10 hardy species): $20-40.
Total upfront: $170-320.
Ongoing Monthly
Food: $5-10. Water conditioner: $3-5. Electricity: $3-6. Occasional med or replacement: $5-10.
Total: $15-30 per month.
75 Gallon Upgrade
Tank and stand: $300-600. Equipment upgrades: $200-400. Substrate and aquascape: $100-200.
Stocking: $100-300.
Total upfront: $700-1,500.
Monthly: $30-60.
Saltwater Multiplier
Expect 3 to 5x the freshwater cost.
Reef setup: $2,000-5,000 for a respectable starter.
Hidden Costs
Failed equipment (heater, filter).
Disease treatments.
Plants and livestock attrition.
Upgrade desire within first 2 years.