Rule of thumb for cost?

[Zidion]

I am finally getting a house and want to set up an aquarium

I remember a while ago reading about a rule of thumb though when figuring out the cost of an aqurium (like the # of gallons X some number=average cost). Anyknow know what im talking about?

I am trying to figure out what size I can afford 8O

 

[austinsdad]

My 155 was $38 per. That was everything but critters. I'd love to see what others did. I believe I've heard $25 or so before.

What size you thinkin' about anyway?

 

[Zidion]

My 155 was $38 per. That was everything but critters. I'd love to see what others did. I believe I've heard $25 or so before.

What size you thinkin' about anyway?

50-75

Was looking at the 24" nanocube though, but thought it might be too hard since its smaller.

 

[austinsdad]

Small is hard in this hobby IMO. Too bad you're not near. Got a brand new 72g bow setup to get rid of.

 

[cplawrence]

Typically, 29 gallons is suggested as the smallest size to start with. That being said, the nanocube has you just a twinge under that, so it would not be unreasonable. Nice features to the nanocubes are the appearance and the fact that they are overall self-contained. However, the simplicity of being self-contained also means that customization (wanting to increase the lighting, add a protein skimmer, etc.) becomes much more difficult.
The price per gallon changes substantially depending on whether you want to keep corals or not. With corals, I typically hear $30+/gallon. I am just a bit under $30/gallon for my 29. Without, it might be closer to $20/gallon.

 

[newlywed04]

At this point counting 135 gal tank and glass covers, enclosed stand, 30 gal refugium, RO DI system,protien skimmer, heaters, salt mixes, 120lbs argonite, 120lbs liverock, wave makers and timers and 2 metal halide pendants, I have $1,500 into the tank, + livestock. If you shop around and do much of the work yourself you can keep prices down.
Good Luck

 

[dscount]

My 75 Gal - About $1,300 into w/o livestock. 60lb LR, 80lb LS, 4 powerhead, 265watt, heater, skimmer, fluval, 18 gal sump, return, overflow, test kits, tools and salt.

 

[Jermz79]

hmmmm .. I don't think I have ever figured out what I've spent.

Tank = Free
Stand = Free
Lights = $170
Filter = $35
PowerHeads ~ $40
LR = approx. 80lbs. $450 depending on price?
LS = about $80

so actual tank setup cost $775 approx. with a big portion saved by the tank and stand given to me.

Livestock ... well some was free through trades and some I've purchased. All together I would say $1000 after said and done! This of course does not include maintenance and other products, food, vitamins , additives etc.

Here's some pics.

 

[roka64]

hmmmm .. I don't think I have ever figured out what I've spent.

Me either, I don't think I really want to know! LOL!
I did keep almost all of my reciepts....maybe one day I'll add it up....