Aquarium Cost Calculator
Estimate the one-time setup and ongoing running costs for freshwater and saltwater aquariums by tank size. Electricity price editable (default 37 ct/kWh); everything stays local on your device.
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Legal notice
Current as of: 11.08.2026.
The results reflect the legal and fiscal state as of the date stated above. They are provided for general information and initial guidance only. They are not individual financial, tax or legal advice, and no guarantee is given as to their accuracy, completeness or suitability for your circumstances. In particular, the results are not a substitute for an official or judicial assessment. Please check the information independently and seek qualified advice where appropriate, as you are solely responsible for any decision made in reliance on the result.
How to use this tool (video)
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Aquarium Cost Calculator: how much does an aquarium cost?
An aquarium is an ongoing project, the biggest costs quietly run up on the electricity bill. The aquarium cost calculator estimates costs by tank size in litres: one-time setup plus running electricity for filter, heater and lighting, as well as food and water conditioner.
How it is calculated
- One-time setup: tank, stand, filter, heater, LED lighting, substrate and decor: a 60-litre tank setup is around 300 €, a 250-litre tank around 750 €.
- Electricity costs: the electricity price (default 37 ct/kWh, BDEW 2026) is editable. Filters run around the clock, the heater depending on the temperature difference, and the light a few hours a day.
- Recurring costs: food, water conditioner and filter media are added monthly.
Freshwater or saltwater?
Saltwater aquariums need significantly more equipment and cost about 2 to 3 times more to set up than freshwater (a ready-to-start 150-litre set costs around 1,600 € according to the trade). Just choose the type in the calculator.
Reference values rather than a guarantee
The figures are reference values (as of: 2026) by tank size and not a real quote. Brand and equipment can change prices considerably.
Frequently asked questions
How much electricity does an aquarium use per month?
Depending on size about 4 to 15 € per month: a 60-litre tank around 12 kWh (≈ 4.20 €), a 250-litre tank around 42 kWh (≈ 15 €) at 37 ct/kWh.
How much does setting up an aquarium cost?
Around 300 € for a 60-litre tank, around 500 € for 120 litres and around 750 € for 250 litres, each including tank, filter, heater, lighting, substrate and decor.
Is saltwater more expensive?
Yes, considerably. Saltwater aquariums cost about 2 to 3 times as much to set up as freshwater, because more equipment (protein skimmer, better lighting) is required.
Why calculate by litres instead of fish?
Tank size reliably determines the filter, heater, lighting and electricity use. Stocking depends on the size, not the other way around.
Is my data stored?
No. Everything stays 100% local in your browser and is neither stored nor transmitted.