Owning pet fish can be a rewarding and affordable way to enjoy the beauty of aquatic life at home. Some species require minimal investment, both in terms of cost and care, making them perfect for beginners or budget-conscious fish enthusiasts. Let’s dive into ten affordable fish species that are not only easy on your wallet but also bring life and color to your tank.

1. Guppies

Guppies are one of the most popular choices for beginner aquarists due to their affordability and low-maintenance needs. These small, colorful fish can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them hardy and easy to care for. They come in various vibrant colors and patterns, adding a lively touch to any aquarium. A small group of guppies can thrive in a 10-gallon tank with minimal equipment, such as a basic filter and heater. They are also very social, so keeping them in groups of three or more is recommended. Best of all, they are widely available at pet stores, with prices often starting as low as $1 per fish.

2. Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, active fish that is also incredibly hardy. Their striped black-and-white pattern gives them their “zebra” name and their energetic swimming habits make them entertaining to watch. These fish are very adaptable and can tolerate a range of water conditions, including cooler temperatures. A school of five or six Zebra Danios can easily fit into a 10-gallon tank, making them perfect for small setups. They’re also community-friendly, getting along well with other peaceful fish species. With prices ranging from $1 to $2 per fish, they’re a cost-effective option for both beginners and seasoned aquarists. 

3. Betta Fish

Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are stunningly beautiful and incredibly budget-friendly. Known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, Bettas are a favorite among aquarists of all levels. Despite their reputation for aggression, male Bettas can be kept alone in smaller tanks, making them a perfect low-cost pet for those with limited space. A single Betta requires a minimum of a 5-gallon tank equipped with a heater and filter to maintain optimal health. Female Bettas can sometimes be kept in groups, known as sororities, but this requires careful planning and a larger tank. With prices typically ranging from $3 to $10 depending on their coloration, Betta Fishes offers exceptional value and beauty in a small package.

4. Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras are tiny, vibrant fish famous for their striking blue and red stripes. These peaceful schooling fish are incredibly affordable and easy to care for, making them a great option for beginners. Their vibrant colors stand out beautifully in any aquarium, especially when kept in groups of six or more. Neon Tetras thrive in a 10-gallon tank with a consistent water temperature and some plants or decorations for hiding spots. They’re compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish, making them a popular choice for community tanks. At an average cost of $1 to $2 per fish, Neon Tetras is a budget-friendly way to create a lively and colorful aquarium. Their active swimming patterns and social behavior make them a delight to observe.

5. White Cloud Mountain Minnows

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are often called “the poor man’s Neon Tetra” due to their similar coloration and lower price point. These small, hardy fish feature a shimmering silver body with red-tipped fins, creating a subtle yet attractive appearance. They are undemanding and can thrive in unheated tanks, making them ideal for beginners or those on a tight budget. A school of six White Cloud Mountain Minnows can comfortably live in a 10-gallon tank. They are peaceful and coexist well with other community fish, though they do best in groups of their kind. With prices starting at around $1 per fish, they’re one of the most economical options for aquarists. Their adaptability and resilience make them a worry-free choice for new fish keepers.

6. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras catfish, often referred to as “Cory Cats,” are small, bottom-dwelling fish that are perfect for keeping your tank clean while adding charm to your aquarium. These peaceful fish are known for their playful personalities and adorable whisker-like barbels. They come in various species, such as the Bronze Cory and the Panda Cory, with most being very affordable. Corydoras are social creatures that thrive in groups of at least three to five. Cory Cats are quite hardy, and their diet is simple, consisting of sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional treats like bloodworms. With prices ranging from $2 to $5 per fish, Corydoras are an excellent choice for budget-conscious aquarists looking for a lively, functional fish.

7. Platies

Platies are vibrant, easygoing fish that come in an array of colors and patterns, including red, yellow, and even speckled varieties. These fish are easy to take care of and can adjust to various environments, which is why they’re often chosen by beginners. Their affordability and active, peaceful nature make them a delightful addition to any freshwater tank. Platies thrive in small groups of three to five in a 10-gallon tank, and their diet is simple, including flakes, pellets, and occasional vegetables like blanched zucchini. At $2 to $4 per fish, Platies are an economical and colorful choice for any aquarium enthusiast.

8. Mollies

Mollies are another great option for affordable and low-maintenance fish. These versatile livebearers come in a variety of shapes and colors, including black, dalmatian, and lyretail varieties. Mollies are hardy fish that can adapt to both freshwater and slightly brackish water conditions, making them a flexible choice for hobbyists. They thrive in tanks of 10 gallons or larger, with plenty of space to move around. Like Platies, they can breed rapidly, so keeping a single gender is recommended unless you’re prepared to handle fry. Their diet is simple, consisting of high-quality flakes, algae wafers, and occasional veggies. At an average cost of $3 to $6 per fish, Mollies offer a lot of value for their stunning appearance and engaging behavior.

9. Swordtails

Swordtails are a close relative of Platies and share many of their characteristics, such as hardiness and ease of care. What sets Swordtails apart is the elongated tail fin on males, resembling a sword. These eye-catching fish are available in different colors like red, orange, and green, making them a great addition to community tanks. Swordtails are active swimmers and prefer a 15-gallon tank or larger to accommodate their energy. Swordtails are omnivores and enjoy a diet of flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods. Priced around $3 to $5 each, Swordtails are an attractive and affordable option for aquarists looking to add some flair to their tanks.

10. Cherry Barbs

Cherry Barbs are small, peaceful fish known for their bright red coloration, which becomes even more vibrant in males during breeding. These hardy fish are ideal for beginners and budget-conscious fish keepers alike. They are not demanding in terms of water parameters and are relatively easy to care for. Cherry Barbs do best in groups of six or more, which helps bring out their natural schooling behavior and reduces stress. A 15-gallon tank with plants and decorations for hiding spots is ideal for these fish. Their diet is straightforward, consisting of flakes, pellets, and occasional treats like brine shrimp. With prices ranging from $2 to $4 per fish, Cherry Barbs provide a pop of color without breaking the bank.