10 Exotic Pets You Can Keep for Under $50

Owning an exotic pet can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. While some exotic animals require large investments in specialized habitats and food, there are plenty of unique pets that you can bring home without breaking the bank. These animals often require less upkeep and are perfect for those who want a more unusual companion without the high cost. Below are 10 exotic pets that you can keep for under $50, offering both uniqueness and affordability.

1. Leopard Geckos

Leopard gecko in terrarium — Image Credit: David Bartus/Pexels.

Leopard geckos are low-maintenance, docile reptiles that make great exotic pets. With their colorful patterns and gentle nature, they’re perfect for beginners. Their setup, which includes a small tank, a heat source, and some hides, is affordable, and they can live on a diet of insects. With proper care, they thrive for many years.

2. Tarantulas

Tarantula tank closeup — Image Credit: Andreas Schnabl/Pexels.

Tarantulas are fascinating, low-cost exotic pets. Most species, like the Chilean Rose, can be bought for under $50, and their setup requires only a small enclosure with substrate for burrowing. They are primarily low-maintenance, feeding on crickets or other small insects, and make for a truly captivating pet.

3. Betta Fish

Red and blue fish in an aquarium — Image Credit: @casalfilmsestudio/Pexels.

Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are an affordable exotic pet that can add color and life to any small tank. With proper care, these fish can live for several years. Their vibrant hues and easy-going nature make them an attractive and inexpensive pet option for fish enthusiasts.

4. African Land Snails

Giant African land snail on a hand — Image Credit: Peter Cripps/Shutterstock.

African land snails are fascinating creatures that can be kept in a basic setup with just a small tank, some soil, and a few plants. They feed on fresh fruits and vegetables, many of which are kitchen scraps, and are low-maintenance, making them an affordable exotic pet for beginners.

5. Hamsters

Roborovski hamster — Image Credit: Bullet – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

Though not always thought of as exotic, certain species of hamsters, such as the Roborovski or Syrian hamster, can offer an unusual pet experience. These small creatures require only a cage, bedding, and some food, and their playful, nocturnal nature makes them enjoyable companions for all ages.

6. Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches

Madagascar hissing cockroaches climbing on rocks in a tank — Image Credit: Vladimir Srajber/Pexels.

While they may not be everyone’s first choice, Madagascar hissing cockroaches are low-cost, low-maintenance pets. Their fascinating behavior and unique hissing sound make them intriguing pets for insect lovers. A small enclosure with food like fruits and vegetables is all they need to thrive, and their upkeep is minimal.

7. African Dwarf Frogs

African dwarf frogs are small, fully aquatic amphibians that require minimal care. A small tank with a water filter, some plants, and a diet of frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp is enough to keep them healthy. These frogs are active and fascinating to watch as they swim around their habitat.

8. Anoles

Green Anole — Image Credit: Hilary Halliwell/Pexels.

Anoles are small, colorful lizards that can be kept in compact terrariums. With their vibrant green or brown coloration and ability to change color based on their environment, they offer a unique and beautiful display. Anoles require a simple setup with a few plants and a diet of small insects.

9. Ghost Shrimp

Ghost shrimp are tiny, translucent creatures that can be kept in a small aquarium. These peaceful scavengers help keep tanks clean by feeding on leftover food and algae. Their low cost and easy care make them a popular choice for aquarium owners looking for an exotic pet without a high price tag.

10. Millipedes

Giant African millipede eating vegetables in a tank — Image Credti: Aga Przybylska/Shutterstock.

Millipedes are fascinating, non-threatening arthropods that make great exotic pets. They are easy to care for, requiring only a small terrarium with moist substrate and some vegetables to munch on. Their slow, rhythmic movements and unique appearance make them interesting pets to watch and maintain on a budget.

Owning an exotic pet doesn’t have to be a costly endeavor. Many creatures, from reptiles and amphibians to insects and fish, can provide an extraordinary pet experience for under $50. Whether you’re interested in a colorful betta fish, a quirky African land snail, or a unique Madagascan hissing cockroach, there’s an exotic pet that fits both your budget and your desire for something special. These affordable pets offer an opportunity to explore different species, enhance your living space, and learn about animal care—all without breaking the bank.