How much does a tarantula cost?
How much does a tarantula cost?
$25 – $150 per tarantula
$50 – $200 per initial setup
$5 – $15 per month
Average tarantula cost
Most pet tarantulas cost $25 to $150, though rare and exotic species can run $200 or more. The price you pay depends largely on the species, the spider's age and sex, and where you purchase it. Beyond the tarantula itself, expect to spend $50 to $200 on an initial enclosure setup and around $5 to $15 per month on food and substrate.
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Common beginner tarantula | $25 – $50 |
| Mid-range species | $50 – $100 |
| Rare or exotic species | $100 – $200+ |
| Initial enclosure setup | $50 – $200 |
| Monthly food and maintenance | $5 – $15 |
| Total first-year cost | $100 – $400+ |
Compared to dogs, cats, and even many reptiles, tarantulas are among the most affordable pets to own. Their low maintenance requirements, quiet temperament, and long lifespans (some females live 20+ years) make them an appealing choice for hobbyists on a budget.
Tarantula cost by species
Species is the single biggest factor in how much you will pay for a tarantula. Common, captive-bred species like the curly hair or pink toe start under $30, while highly sought-after species like the Gooty sapphire ornamental can exceed $150. Below is a comprehensive price list for popular species available in the pet trade.
| Species (Common Name) | Scientific Name | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Striped knee tarantula | Aphonopelma seemanni | $24 – $30 |
| Trinidad chevron tarantula | Psalmopoeus cambridgei | $24 – $35 |
| Texas brown tarantula | Aphonopelma hentzi | $24 – $35 |
| Pink toe tarantula | Avicularia avicularia | $28 – $35 |
| Haitian brown tarantula | Phormictopus cancerides | $34 – $40 |
| Brazilian giant white knee | Acanthoscurria geniculata | $28 – $50 |
| Curly hair tarantula | Tliltocatl albopilosum | $35 – $45 |
| Brazilian giant salmon | Lasiodora parahybana | $35 – $45 |
| Chaco golden knee | Grammostola pulchripes | $38 – $50 |
| Mexican red knee | Brachypelma hamorii | $36 – $50 |
| Cobalt blue tarantula | Haplopelma lividum | $45 – $55 |
| Antilles pink toe | Avicularia versicolor | $45 – $55 |
| Pumpkin patch tarantula | Hapalopus sp. | $45 – $55 |
| Orange baboon tarantula | Pterinochilus murinus | $55 – $65 |
| Mexican fireleg tarantula | Brachypelma boehmei | $65 – $75 |
| Rose hair tarantula | Grammostola rosea | $60 – $75 |
| King baboon tarantula | Pelinobius muticus | $65 – $75 |
| Venezuelan suntiger | Psalmopoeus irminia | $75 – $85 |
| Purple pink toe | Avicularia purpurea | $85 – $95 |
| Indian ornamental | Poecilotheria regalis | $85 – $95 |
| Mexican red rump | Brachypelma vagans | $85 – $95 |
| Golden blue leg baboon | Harpactira pulchripes | $95 – $105 |
| Greenbottle blue tarantula | Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens | $95 – $105 |
| Brazilian black tarantula | Grammostola pulchra | $105 – $115 |
| Goliath bird-eating tarantula | Theraphosa sp. | $125 – $135 |
| Gooty sapphire ornamental | Poecilotheria metallica | $145 – $160 |
| Chilean dwarf flame | Euathlus truculentus | $145 – $155 |
| Rare or limited species | Various | $150 – $300+ |
Budget-friendly species (under $50)
If you are looking for an affordable first tarantula, several excellent species fall below the $50 mark. The curly hair tarantula, pink toe, striped knee, Chaco golden knee, and Mexican red knee are all widely available and priced between $25 and $50. These species tend to be docile, hardy, and captive-bred in large numbers, which keeps prices low.
Premium and rare species ($100+)
Collectors willing to spend more can find stunning species like the Gooty sapphire ornamental at around $150, the Brazilian black tarantula at $110, and the Goliath bird-eating tarantula at $130. Newly described or limited-availability species from South America and Southeast Asia can push well past $200, with some rarities reaching $300 or more.
Initial setup costs
The enclosure and accessories will likely cost more than the tarantula itself, especially if you choose a budget species. A complete starter setup typically runs $50 to $200 depending on the type of enclosure and accessories you select.
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Enclosure (5 to 10 gallon tank or acrylic cage) | $15 – $60 |
| Deluxe tarantula kit (cage, substrate, décor) | $45 – $80 |
| Substrate (coconut fiber, peat moss) | $5 – $15 |
| Hide or shelter | $5 – $15 |
| Water dish | $3 – $8 |
| Heat mat or lamp (if needed) | $10 – $25 |
| Thermometer and hygrometer | $5 – $15 |
| Plants and décor | $5 – $20 |
| Spray bottle for misting | $2 – $5 |
Choosing the right enclosure
Terrestrial tarantulas do well in a standard 5 to 10 gallon glass tank with a secure screen lid. Arboreal species need a taller enclosure to accommodate climbing. Acrylic tarantula enclosures designed specifically for spiders are popular because they offer cross-ventilation and secure latches, typically costing $20 to $50.
A tight-fitting lid is essential. Tarantulas are surprisingly good escape artists and will push through even narrow gaps. Screen lids also allow proper airflow, which helps prevent mold growth in the humid environment most species require.
Substrate and décor
Coconut fiber (also sold as coco coir) is the most popular substrate for tarantulas, costing $5 to $10 per brick. Each compressed brick expands to fill several enclosures. Sphagnum moss can be mixed in or layered on top to help maintain humidity. Fossorial (burrowing) species need deeper substrate, usually 4 to 6 inches or more.
Hides can be as simple as a halved cork bark tube or a small artificial cave. Adding fake plants and a shallow water dish completes the setup. Avoid anything with sharp edges that could injure the spider during a fall.
Ongoing costs
One of the biggest advantages of keeping tarantulas is the low ongoing expense. Monthly costs average $5 to $15, making tarantulas far cheaper to maintain than most traditional pets.
| Ongoing Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Feeder insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms) | $3 – $10 |
| Substrate replacement | $1 – $3 |
| Electricity (heat mat if used) | $1 – $3 |
| Miscellaneous supplies | $0 – $5 |
| Total monthly | $5 – $15 |
Feeding costs
Tarantulas are insectivores that eat crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and superworms. Most adult tarantulas eat one to two times per week, consuming just a few insects per feeding. Buying feeder insects in bulk online can save up to 70% compared to individual pet store purchases. A container of 500 crickets typically costs $15 to $25 and can last months for a single tarantula.
Never feed your tarantula wild-caught insects. They may carry parasites or pesticide residue that could be harmful or fatal to your spider. Always use commercially raised feeder insects that have been gut-loaded with nutritious food before offering them.
Veterinary costs
Most tarantula keepers never visit a vet. However, if your spider develops a health issue like a ruptured abdomen or parasitic infection, an exotic veterinarian visit can cost $50 to $100+. These visits are rare, and many experienced keepers handle minor issues at home. Some retailers recommend a vet visit within 14 days of purchase to establish a baseline for care.
Where to buy a tarantula
Tarantulas are available from pet stores, online breeders, reptile expos, and private sellers. Each source has different advantages in terms of price, selection, and quality assurance.
| Source | Price Range | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Pet store (PetSmart, Petco) | $30 – $50 | See the animal in person; return policy |
| Online breeders | $24 – $300+ | Widest selection; competitive prices |
| Reptile and invertebrate expos | $15 – $200+ | Best deals; direct breeder access |
| Private breeders (local or forums) | $15 – $150 | Often lowest prices; locally bred |
Pet stores
Major chains like PetSmart sell beginner species like the curly hair tarantula for around $40. Selection is limited, usually to just one or two species. The advantage is the ability to inspect the spider before purchasing, along with a 14-day health guarantee and easy returns.
Online breeders and retailers
Online retailers such as Backwater Reptiles, Spider Shoppe, and Fear Not Tarantulas offer the largest selection, often listing 50 to 200+ species at any given time. Prices start as low as $24 for common species. Most reputable online sellers include a live arrival guarantee. Shipping typically costs $30 to $50 for overnight delivery, which is necessary to ensure the spider arrives healthy.
Shipping often adds $30 to $50 to your order. Many online sellers offer free or discounted shipping on orders over a certain amount, so bundling supplies with your tarantula purchase can help offset this cost.
Reptile and invertebrate expos
Reptile expos are often the best place to find deals on tarantulas. Breeders selling directly at expos eliminate shipping costs and often price spiderlings 20% to 40% lower than online retailers. You also get the opportunity to examine the animal, ask questions, and pick from a breeder's full inventory.
Factors that affect tarantula price
Several variables determine how much a tarantula costs. Understanding these factors helps you make a smarter purchase and avoid overpaying.
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Species rarity | Rare species cost 3x to 10x more than common ones |
| Age and size | Slings (babies) are cheapest; adults cost more |
| Sex | Confirmed females cost 2x to 5x more than males |
| Captive bred vs. wild caught | Captive bred is slightly more but healthier |
| Coloration and appearance | Vibrant or unusual coloring commands a premium |
Age and size
Tarantula spiderlings (slings) are the most affordable option, often priced at just $15 to $40 even for mid-range species. Juvenile tarantulas (2 to 3 inches) cost more, and confirmed adult females are the most expensive since they can live for 15 to 25+ years. Adult males have much shorter lifespans (3 to 7 years on average) and are priced lower as a result.
Sex
Female tarantulas live significantly longer than males, which makes them far more valuable. A confirmed female Mexican red knee might cost $80 to $150, while an unsexed sling of the same species sells for $36 to $50. Male tarantulas, once mature, typically have only one to two years left. This is why they are consistently the cheapest option.
Species rarity and demand
High-demand species with limited captive breeding availability command premium prices. The Gooty sapphire ornamental, for example, is critically endangered in the wild and difficult to breed, pushing its price to $150+. Meanwhile, prolific breeders like the Brazilian giant salmon produce large egg sacs, keeping their prices around $35 to $45.
Best tarantulas for beginners
New keepers should start with docile, hardy species that are forgiving of minor care mistakes. The following species are widely recommended by the tarantula community for first-time owners.
| Species | Typical Price | Temperament | Lifespan (Female) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curly hair tarantula | $35 – $45 | Docile | 8 – 20 years |
| Mexican red knee | $36 – $50 | Calm, slow-moving | 20 – 30 years |
| Pink toe tarantula | $28 – $35 | Docile, occasionally skittish | 6 – 12 years |
| Chaco golden knee | $38 – $50 | Very docile | 20 – 25 years |
| Brazilian black tarantula | $105 – $115 | Extremely docile | 20+ years |
| Arizona blonde | $28 – $40 | Calm | 20 – 30 years |
The curly hair tarantula is arguably the most popular beginner species. It is inexpensive, widely available at chain pet stores for around $40, and tolerates a range of humidity and temperature conditions. It grows to 4 to 6 inches and can become accustomed to gentle handling with patience.
The Mexican red knee is another iconic choice. Its striking red and black coloring, calm disposition, and impressive lifespan of up to 30 years for females make it a longtime favorite. Spiderlings start around $36, while confirmed adult females can cost $100 or more.
Start with a spiderling or juvenile rather than an adult. They are more affordable, and raising a tarantula from a young age is one of the most rewarding parts of the hobby. Just keep in mind that slings are smaller and more delicate, requiring more careful humidity management.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to own a tarantula in total?
The total first-year cost of owning a tarantula is typically $100 to $400. This includes the spider itself ($25 to $150), the enclosure and accessories ($50 to $200), and approximately $60 to $180 in annual food and maintenance costs. After the first year, annual costs drop to roughly $60 to $180 since you will not need to repurchase the enclosure.
What is the cheapest tarantula?
The cheapest commonly available tarantulas are the striped knee and Trinidad chevron, both starting around $24 to $25 for spiderlings. Texas brown tarantulas and pink toe tarantulas are also available for under $30. At reptile expos, you may find spiderlings of common species for as little as $10 to $15.
What is the most expensive tarantula?
The most expensive commonly sold species include the Gooty sapphire ornamental at around $150, the Chilean dwarf flame at $150, and confirmed adult female Brazilian blacks at $150 to $200. Rare, newly described species from South America can exceed $200 to $300.
Can you buy a tarantula at PetSmart?
Yes. PetSmart sells the American curly hair tarantula for $39.99 as an in-store only purchase. Selection is limited to one or two beginner species, but the store offers a 14-day satisfaction guarantee and a Vet Assured program to screen for common illnesses.
How much does tarantula food cost?
Feeder insects cost $3 to $10 per month for a single tarantula. A tub of 50 crickets runs about $5 to $8 at a pet store, or $15 to $25 for a bulk order of 500 online. Dubia roaches, mealworms, and superworms are similarly priced and provide dietary variety.
How long do tarantulas live?
Female tarantulas live 15 to 30 years depending on the species. Males have much shorter lifespans, typically 3 to 7 years. The Mexican red knee and Chaco golden knee are among the longest-lived species, with females sometimes reaching 25 to 30 years in captivity.
Is it safe to buy a tarantula online?
Yes, provided you purchase from a reputable breeder or retailer that offers a live arrival guarantee. Tarantulas are shipped via overnight delivery in insulated containers with heat or cold packs as needed. Shipping costs are typically $30 to $50, and most sellers will replace or refund any spider that does not arrive alive and healthy.