How Much Does a Chameleon Cost? Chameleon Price Range

Looking to buy a new chameleon and want to compare costs?

The cost of a chameleon can vary widely based on species, age, color, and breeder reputation.

Here we’ll compare Petco, Petsmart, and specialized breeder CB Reptile.

Let’s start with chameleon pricing.

Chameleon Price Range By Species and Store

Veiled Chameleons:

  • Petco: Around $40 – $60 USD
  • Petsmart: Around $50 – $70 USD
  • CBReptile: $50 – $100 USD for common colorations, more for special morphs.
  • Veiled chameleons for sale

Panther Chameleons:

Jackson’s Chameleons:

I Recommend You Go With CBReptile

CBReptile is an online retailer specializing in captive-bred reptiles, including chameleons.

The company is well-regarded for offering healthy, captive-bred animals, which is a more ethical and often healthier choice than wild-caught specimens.

They often have a variety of species available, ranging from the more common Veiled and Panther Chameleons to more exotic species.

Pros of buying from CBReptile:

  1. Captive-Bred: CBReptile specializes in captive-bred reptiles (CB stands for “Captive-Bred”). This is better for conservation and often results in healthier pets.
  2. Health: Chameleons from CBReptile are healthier and better cared for than those from large chain stores.
  3. Availability: CBReptile offers more rare and exotic species that are usually not available in mainstream pet stores
  4. Customer Support: CBReptile provides better customer support and care information than general pet stores.
  5. Shipping: When buying from an online store, you may be concerned about shipping, which can be stressful for the animal and may also add to the overall cost… but with CBReptile _____
  6. Reviews and Testimonials: It’s always good to check reviews and possibly ask for recommendations before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting a healthy animal.

The initial chameleon purchase price is just the beginning. Chameleons require a significant investment in time, equipment, and ongoing care.

Chameleon Cage, Food, and Lighting Costs

How Much Does a Chameleon Cage Cost?

Setup: $150 – $500 USD for enclosure, lighting, and accessories.

This range can fluctuate based on the quality of materials, size of the cage, and the specific requirements of the chameleon species you choose to keep.

A proper setup should include:

  • Enclosure: A well-ventilated enclosure that mimics the vertical space chameleons enjoy in the wild. Glass terrariums or screened cages are popular choices.
  • Lighting: A UVB bulb is essential for metabolic health, while a basking light will provide the heat needed for your chameleon to thrive.
  • Accessories: These include climbing branches, foliage for hiding, a water dish, and possibly an automated mister, as chameleons often prefer to drink water off leaves rather than from a bowl.

Chameleon cage setup guide

Chameleon lighting and temperature regulation guide

How Much Does Chameleon Food Cost?

Ongoing Costs: Monthly, you may spend between $20 and $50 USD on your chameleon’s food, dietary supplements, and the electricity to power the enclosure’s lighting and heating. These costs can vary depending on the type and size of your chameleon, as well as local electricity rates.

  • Food: Chameleons primarily eat insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches. The cost will depend on the quantity and type of live feed you purchase.
  • Supplements: To prevent nutritional deficiencies, you’ll need calcium and vitamin supplements to dust the feeder insects.
  • Electricity: The lights and any additional heating elements will contribute to your electric bill, which can vary based on your local utility rates and how efficiently you manage the cage environment.

Chameleon food and diet guide: This guide provides insights into the dietary needs of chameleons. how often and what to feed them, and the importance of supplements for preventing health issues related to deficiencies.