Baby turtles are adorable creatures that make amazing pets. If you are thinking about getting a baby turtle, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the baby turtle price. Here is what we have learned about how much baby turtles cost.
How much are baby turtles?
The price of a baby turtle can vary greatly. Expect to pay between a price range of $10 and $100 depending on the turtle species. There are even some exotic turtle species that can cost between $250 and $500.
Baby turtles can be relatively inexpensive in comparisons to other pets like kittens and puppies. However, they require consistent and dedicated care throughout their lives.
Quick note: A turtle less than 6 months of age is considered a baby turtle. Generally, turtle between 6 months and 2 years of age are considered juvenile turtles.
Price of different species of baby turtles
The price of baby turtles can fluctuate widely depending on many factors. These factors include the availability, turtle species, or turtle age.
Below are the usual prices for some of the most popular baby turtle species:
| Turtle species | Baby turtle average price |
| Red-Eared Slider | $10 to $15 |
| Eastern Painted Turtles | $25 to $30 |
| Western Painted Turtle | $15 to $25 |
| African Side-Neck Turtle | $30 to $40 |
| Russian Tortoise | $70 to $80 |
| Twist Neck Turtle | $80 to $100 |
| Ornate Box Turtle | $70 to $80 |
| Belize Slider Turtle | $50 to $75 |
| Common Musk Turtle | $20 to $25 |
| Russian Tortoise | $70 to $80 |
| Indian Star Tortoise | $500 to $600 |
The cost of a baby turtle also depends on where you buy it from. Below are the costs at some of the most popular pet stores. As you can see from the chart above, the most expensive baby turtle is the Belize Slider. The most expensive tortoise is the Indian Star Tortoise.
If you plan on buying a baby turtle, you should check out my article on how to take care of a baby turtle.
Best accessories for baby turtles
Aside from the cost of the turtle itself, you will also have to pay for accessories for the tank. Below are some cool turtle tank accessories.
Turtles Dock for Baby Turtles ($13.99)
Turtle Tank Bubble Decoration Light ($23.99)
What do you have to buy for a baby turtle?
The total one-time initial cost is often overlooked when determining a baby turtle’s true ownership cost. Turtles need a dedicated enclosure where temperature, humidity, water quailty, and lighting need to be maintained.
When calculating your overall budget and the initial cost of owning a baby turtle, make sure you account for the price of these items as well:
- Tank for a baby turtle
- Some form of substrate
- Basking platform
- A ramp into and out of the water for aquatic turtles
- Turtle tank filter system
- UVB light or lamp
- Thermostat
- Ceramic heat lamp & lamp fixture
- Turtle food
- First vet check-up
It is important to be well-prepared before bringing home a turtle. The initial cost of having a turtle can range from $500 to $1500. Most of the time, the most expensive accessory is the turtle tank, which can cost anywhere between $200 and $1,000. Whatever tank you choose for your baby turtle, make sure it will be able to accommodate your turtle when it reaches its adult size.
If you plan on getting a red-eared slider, you should check out my article on what do baby red eared sliders eat?
How much are baby turtles at PetSmart?
Baby turtles tend to be a bit more expensive at Petsmart compared to other places. For example, at PetSmart a Red-Eared Slider costs $24.99, and a Painted Turtle costs $30. While this is a bit on the pricier end, PetSmart usually sells quality, healthy turtles.
How much are baby turtles at Petco?
Petco is a little cheaper than PetSmart. Although they have less variety in terms of species, Petco sells Red-Eared Sliders for $19.99. It is important to note that both PetSmart and Petco only sell live turtles in store. This means you cannot buy them online. Additionally, some species of turtles might only be available during certain times of the year.
Choosing a baby turtle: Key Takeaways
It is always important to do your research before you buy a baby turtle. You need to budget for ongoing expenses apart from the initial price. Before your little friend comes home with you, you should keep these things in mind:
- Always do your research and buy baby turtles from a reputable shop or online website.
- Turtles are low-maintenance pets and are not difficult to own on a budget.
- The renowned turtle breeders and shops tend to be on the upper end of the price spectrum.
- Unfortunately, not all turtle shops sell healthy turtles. Look out for any signs of poor health like swelling or poor shell conditions.
- Reptiles usually tend to hide their illness until they are very sick. Look out for any unusual symptoms.
- Turtles are simple pets and don’t need a lot of things to keep them entertained.
- Once you acquire the initial items for owning a turtle, it becomes very easy and cheap to care for the turtle.
- Unlike other pets, turtles don’t require vaccinations, dental care, or regular medical treatments. As long as you take good care of baby turtles, they generally will not require many vet visits.
Conclusion
Baby turtles are fun to be around and are worth each penny. They are charming reptiles that make great pets for families. Everything you invest in this adorable bundle of joy is worth your effort and money. After you pay for all the necessary accessories, the only think you will need to continue to buy is turtle food.
I buy my turtle food in bulk, and therefore spend less than $100 a year to feed my Red-Eared Slider.
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Enjoy your life with your new baby turtle!
