How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost?
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles, known for their docile nature, quirky personalities, and relatively easy care compared to other exotic pets. But before you head out to bring one home, it’s smart to understand how much a bearded dragon actually costs—not just the purchase price, but the full range of expenses that come with owning and caring for one.
Let’s break down the cost of a bearded dragon from the initial setup to ongoing monthly and annual expenses. Whether you’re planning to adopt one as a first-time reptile owner or you’re just curious, this guide will give you a clear picture of the financial commitment involved.
1. How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Itself Cost?
The price of the bearded dragon depends on a few factors including age, morph (color and pattern), and where you buy it from.
Average Bearded Dragon Prices:
- Pet Store (basic morph): $40–$100
- Breeder (common morph): $50–$200
- Rare morphs or color variants: $200–$500+
- Adoption or rescue: Sometimes free to $50
A standard or common bearded dragon typically costs between $50 and $100, while rarer morphs such as leatherbacks, translucent, or silkbacks can cost significantly more.
If you’re looking to save money and help an animal in need, check with local reptile rescues or animal shelters for adoptable beardies.
2. Essential Supplies and Habitat Setup Costs
Bringing a bearded dragon home means having a proper habitat ready—this is where most of your upfront costs will go.
Basic Habitat Needs:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tank (40–120 gallon) | $100–$300 |
| UVB Light and Fixture | $30–$60 |
| Heat Lamp & Fixture | $20–$50 |
| Thermometer & Hygrometer | $10–$30 |
| Substrate (e.g., reptile carpet) | $10–$30 |
| Hides, branches, decor | $20–$100 |
| Food & water dishes | $5–$15 |
| Timer (for lights) | $10–$20 |
Total Setup Cost Estimate:
$200–$600
You can often save money by purchasing a complete bearded dragon starter kit, which includes many essentials bundled together, usually ranging from $200 to $350.
However, it’s important to double-check that these kits have high-quality UVB bulbs and proper heat sources, as cheaper kits may skimp on the essentials.
3. Monthly and Ongoing Costs
Owning a bearded dragon doesn’t stop at the setup. Monthly maintenance includes food, lighting replacements, and health care.
Food Costs:
Bearded dragons eat a mix of insects and vegetables. Young dragons eat mostly protein (insects), while adults eat more greens.
- Insects (crickets, dubia roaches, worms): $15–$30/month
- Fresh vegetables: $10–$20/month
- Calcium & vitamin supplements: $5–$10/month
Total Food Cost:
$25–$50/month
You can reduce long-term insect costs by breeding your own feeder insects at home, such as dubia roaches. Also, did you know bearded dragons can eat grapes, bananas, apples, strawberries, and blueberries?
4. Lighting and Heating Maintenance
Bearded dragons require specific lighting to stay healthy. Their UVB bulbs need to be replaced every 6 months, even if they still light up, because the UVB output diminishes over time.
- UVB bulb (every 6 months): $20–$40
- Heat bulb (every 1–2 months): $5–$15
Annual lighting and heating cost: $60–$100
5. Veterinary and Health Care Costs
Although bearded dragons are hardy reptiles, they can still get sick. You should find a vet who specializes in reptiles or exotic animals.
Vet Costs:
- Routine checkup: $50–$100 per visit
- Fecal test for parasites: $25–$50
- Emergency or illness visit: $100–$300+
- Medication (if needed): $20–$100
It’s a good idea to budget for $100–$200 per year for basic health care, though costs may rise if serious issues occur.
Some owners also consider pet insurance for reptiles, which can cost $10–$15/month, though coverage and availability are more limited than for cats or dogs.
6. Optional and Occasional Costs
You might choose to upgrade your pet’s habitat, add enrichment toys, or purchase grooming items like nail clippers.
- Tank upgrades (larger enclosure or background decor): $100–$300
- Travel carrier: $20–$50
- Grooming tools: $5–$15
- Live plants or new decorations: $10–$50
These costs aren’t essential but can improve your pet’s quality of life or your experience as a reptile keeper.
7. Yearly Cost Estimate Breakdown
Let’s estimate the total yearly cost of owning a bearded dragon after the initial setup:
| Expense | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Food (insects, veggies, supplements) | $300–$600 |
| Lighting/heating replacements | $60–$100 |
| Vet care | $100–$200 |
| Substrate replacements/decor | $20–$50 |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$100 |
| Total | $530–$1,050/year |
8. Total First-Year Cost of a Bearded Dragon
If you’re starting from scratch, your first-year total might look like this:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Bearded Dragon | $50–$150 |
| Initial Habitat Setup | $200–$600 |
| First Year of Food & Supplies | $530–$1,050 |
| Total First-Year Cost | $780–$1,800 |
Of course, you can spend less or more depending on the choices you make—buying used equipment, adopting instead of buying, or choosing high-end supplies.
Owning a bearded dragon is a rewarding experience, but it does come with costs that go beyond the purchase price of the lizard itself. While it’s possible to keep your spending on the lower end with smart choices and DIY options, be prepared for an upfront investment and ongoing care costs. Budgeting between $800 and $1,800 for the first year and around $500–$1,000 annually after that is a realistic and responsible estimate.
With proper care, bearded dragons can live 10–15 years, so they’re a long-term commitment—both emotionally and financially. But for reptile lovers, the calm, friendly personality and curious nature of a bearded dragon make it well worth the cost.
