Bearded dragons have exploded in popularity as pet reptiles over the last couple of decades. Their calm personalities coupled with their unique, spiny looks make them very appealing lizards to keep. However, while bearded dragons have many positive attributes, they do require some specialized care and expenses that prospective owners should factor in before getting one. So, how much is a bearded dragon? Let’s take an in-depth look at the costs.
Upfront Bearded Dragon Setup Costs
The upfront investment for a proper bearded dragon habitat and supplies ranges from $200 on the low end up to $800 or more for a premium setup. Here are the main equipment costs:
Enclosure
Most owners choose either glass tanks or wood vivariums. Size recommendations:
- Baby bearded dragon: 20 gallon
- Adult bearded dragon: minimum 40 gallon breeder tank
For one adult dragon, expect to spend $80 to $400 depending on size.
Lighting & Heating
Since bearded dragons are cold-blooded, they require specialized heating and lighting that mimics their native desert habitat. This includes:
- UVB lighting – needed for calcium metabolism and health. Cost: $20 to $150
- Basking bulb – creates a 100-110°F hot spot. Cost: $10 to $60
- Ceramic heat emitter – keeps ambient temperature 75-80°F. Cost: $20
You’ll also need fixtures, reflectors, and thermostats which can run $50 or more.
Furnishings & Substrates
You’ll need hiding spots, climbing branches, a basking platform, and substrates. These costs can range from $30 to $150.
Food Bowls, Thermometers, etc.
Essentials like food bowls, digital thermometers & hygrometers, supplements, and more will be another $30 to $100.
Initial Food Supply
The first batches of live insects, veggies, and other staple foods will likely cost $20 to $100 to stock up.
As you can see, habitat setup costs can really add up! But what about ongoing care expenses?
Ongoing Bearded Dragon Care Costs
Caring for a bearded dragon extends far beyond just the initial setup. You’ll need to factor in recurring monthly care costs including:
Food
- Live insects – crickets, worms, roaches
- Fresh vegetables & fruits
- Occasional treats like mice or hornworms
This averages $10 to $50 per month depending on age.
Supplements
Dusting insects with calcium and multivitamins averages around $5 to $10 monthly.
Utility Costs
Electricity for lighting and heating can cost $5 to $20+ extra per month depending on your rates.
Miscellaneous Supplies
Bulb replacements, new furnishings, cleaning supplies and other occasional purchases average $10 to $30 monthly.
Potential Vet Visits
Checkups and treating any injuries or illnesses can set you back $100 or more per visit. Exams average $50.
All said, monthly recurring expenses range from $20 on the very low end to $100 or more if you have a juvenile dragon, feed a varied diet, or have any vet visits.
Other Potential Bearded Dragon Expenses
Here are a few other big-ticket costs that can come up:
- Adult Size Enclosure – Since bearded dragons grow rapidly for 18-24 months, most will eventually need a larger 4′ x 2′ x 2′ adult tank that can cost $300 to $1,000.
- Specialty UVB/Heating – Some owners upgrade to mercury vapor lamps, T5 setups, or custom lighting rigs later on which can cost $200+.
- Unexpected Vet Fees – Illnesses, injuries, parasites and other issues can sometimes crop up, which could be $500+ if surgery is needed.
So while the basics may not seem too intimidating, there are scenarios where bearded dragon expenses can escalate. Having an emergency fund is wise.
Ways to Save Money on Bearded Dragon Care
If costs are adding up quicker than expected, here are some smart tips to save:
- Construct custom enclosures – Building your own wood or PVC vivarium can cost 50%+ less than retail habitats.
- Buy feeders/supplies in bulk – Places like Rainbow or Dubia Roaches offer discounts for bulk orders and subscriptions.
- Grow your own produce/insects – Farming your own superworms, roaches, or veggies slashes costs dramatically.
- Price match food staples – Shop around and price match staples like greens and vegetables each week.
- Research pet insurance options – Having exotic pet insurance can offset big vet bills down the road if health issues arise.
Getting creative with husbandry strategies can keep your bearded dragon while minimizing expenses.
Average Lifetime Costs of Owning a Bearded Dragon
Given their average 7-10 year lifespan in captivity, owning a bearded dragon is a long-term commitment. The estimated lifetime costs of keeping a bearded dragon over its entire life generally fall somewhere between:
- Lower End Estimate: ~$2,000 – For those with minimal vet visits who keep costs very low.
- Higher End Estimate: ~$7,500 – If buying a premium setup, varied diet, some big vet bills, etc.
The average lifetime investment likely falls around $3,500 to $5,000 for most owners over the 7-10 years.
Bearded Dragon Cost FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about managing bearded dragon expenses over their life.
Do bearded dragons require the expensive UVB lighting?
- Yes, UVB exposure is considered essential for their health, so the $100+ investment is worth it. No-UV coil bulbs are outdated.
Is a 40 gallon tank ok, or do I need to get a 75 gallon tank?
- A minimum 40 gallon 36″ x 18″ tank is sufficient for an adult. Bigger is fine if space allows, but not strictly necessary.
Should I get exotic pet insurance for my bearded dragon?
- Pet insurance is generally a smart idea for any reptile. It can really pay for itself if even one major vet bill comes up down the road.
Conclusion
In the end, setup and ongoing care for a bearded dragon often totals $500 to $1,000 year one, then $200 – $800 annually after that for food, utilities, supplies and vet costs. Lifetime costs over 7-10 years can range from $2,000 to $7,500+ depending on care decisions. Understanding these cost considerations allows prospective owners to budget wisely and be prepared for this unique, 20+ year commitment!
