If you’re thinking about getting a parakeet, you’re probably curious about the costs involved. While generally affordable, factors like the breed, color, and rarity of the parakeet can significantly influence its price.
For the more common parakeets, like budgerigars or budgies, you can typically expect to pay around $20 to $60. However, for rarer species like Alexandrine Parakeets, prices can go as high as $1,500, depending on their age and color.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the costs involved in owning a parakeet. From the initial cost to the ongoing care expenses, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more!
How Much Are Parakeets at Petco?
At Petco, you can get a parakeet for about $45. This price mainly applies to the most common varieties, such as Blue, Green, and Fancy Parakeets.
But if you’re looking for something a bit different, Petco also sells Quaker Parakeets. These birds are not as common, so they cost around $600.
Note that these parakeets are available for purchase only in Petco’s physical stores, not online. This policy ensures potential pet owners can interact with and choose the right parakeet for them.
Now, before you head to the pet store, watch this video on how to pick the best budgie for you:
How Much Are Parakeets at PetSmart?
Parakeets at PetSmart typically cost around $40, but you might find them on sale for as low as $28. The store primarily offers Fancy, Blue, and Green Parakeets, all of which are variations of the standard Budgerigar Parakeet.
Just like at Petco, you can’t buy parakeets online from PetSmart. To bring one of these charming birds home, you’ll need to visit a physical store. You can check out PetSmart’s website to find the nearest store to you.
How Much Are Parakeets From Breeders?
When buying parakeets from breeders, the prices can vary significantly based on the breed, rarity, and the breeder’s reputation.
Generally, you can expect to pay about $60 for a regular parakeet. But if you’re eyeing a rarer kind, be ready to shell out up to $900.
While breeders’ prices are typically higher than pet stores, the extra investment usually means a healthier, better-socialized bird.
Many breeders hand-raise the birds, which makes them tame and comfortable around humans from a young age.
Moreover, good breeders test their birds for diseases and parasites, which means less worry about health issues for you and your new feathered friend.
Different Types of Parakeets and Their Prices
The cost of parakeets can vary greatly depending on the type, so it’s important to understand the differences and what you can expect to pay.
To help you choose your new bird, listed below are the most popular varieties of pet parakeets and their respective price ranges.
1. American Budgerigar ($20 – $60)
Commonly referred to as a budgie, the American Budgerigar is the most common type of parakeet found in pet stores.
These small, vibrant birds are not only affordable but also easy to care for, which makes them perfect for first-time bird owners. They come in a variety of colors, including green, blue, yellow, and combinations thereof.
2. English Budgerigar ($60 – $100)
Larger and fluffier than its American counterparts, the English Budgerigar is often featured in bird shows. They come in colors such as blue, green, yellow, and white and are known for their gentle and affectionate nature.
They cost a bit more than American Budgies because they are usually sold only by breeders, yet they’re still an affordable option for parakeet lovers.
3. Lutino Parakeet ($100 – $300)
The Lutino Parakeet is characterized by its bright yellow feathers and red eyes, which are a result of a rare genetic mutation. This distinctive coloring not only adds to their appeal but also contributes to their slightly higher cost.
These birds are quite popular among parakeet enthusiasts for their unique appearance and are equally as friendly and engaging as other parakeets.
4. Albino Parakeet ($100 – $300)
The Albino Parakeet stands out with its striking white feathers, red eyes, and pink legs. Like Lutinos, they are the result of a unique genetic mutation.
Despite their distinct appearance, they’re pretty much like any other parakeet. They’re fun and friendly, and they love to play and chat.
Their rarity makes them slightly more expensive than regular parakeets, but they are worth the price for those who admire this elegant and unique look.
5. Lineolated Parakeet ($200 – $300)
For those preferring a quieter bird, the Lineolated Parakeet or “Linnie” is an excellent choice. They’re not as loud as other parakeets, which is great if you live in an apartment or just prefer a peaceful household.
These birds are also admired for their barred plumage, which comes in lovely shades of green, blue, and other colors.
Moreover, they’re known for being calm and easygoing, so they’re a good choice if you’re looking for a pet bird that’s not too demanding in terms of noise and care.
6. Quaker Parakeet ($300 – $1,000)
Also known as the Monk Parakeet, the Quaker Parakeet is known for its charming and comical personality.
I’ve had the pleasure of sharing my home with Quaker Parakeets, and I can tell you that their price reflects their complex care needs.
However, these small, bright-green parrots are a bundle of joy. They’re intelligent and social and even mimic speech, which makes them highly engaging. This makes all the costs of owning one worth it.
With an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years, these parakeets are a long-term commitment but offer a fulfilling pet experience.
7. Moustached Parakeet ($500 – $1,000)
The Moustached Parakeet is easily recognized by its unique facial markings that look like a mustache. These birds are not just good-looking; they’re also known for their gentle nature and love for human interaction.
They really shine when it comes to speaking and mimicking sounds, which makes them a hit with pet owners who like to interact a lot with their birds.
Moustached Parakeets are one of the rarer kinds of parakeets. This makes them a more expensive option for those looking to add a feathered friend to their family.
8. Indian Ringneck Parakeet ($400 – $1,500)
The Indian Ringneck Parakeet stands out with its distinctive neck ring, which is especially noticeable in males. In contrast, females typically do not display this bold neck ring, which makes them generally more affordable.
Indian Ringneck Parakeets come in all sorts of colors, like green, blue, yellow, and even albino. Depending on the mutation, their cost can vary, with rarer colors fetching higher prices.
Renowned for their ability to mimic human speech, these birds are known for their social and intelligent nature, making them perfect companions for anyone seeking a pet that’s both engaging and fun.
9. Alexandrine Parakeet ($500 – $1,500)
Renowned for its bright green feathers and eye-catching red patches, the Alexandrine Parakeet is one of the largest parakeets out there.
These birds are on the pricier side, usually costing between $500 and $1,500, with variations in price depending on color mutations.
Their intelligence and trainability make them highly sought after, but they also require more space and enrichment, which contributes to their higher cost.
Moreover, they’re known for their long lifespan, often living up to 30 years, which makes them a commitment as long-term companions.
Fun Fact: There are over 120 different species of parakeets around the world. This incredible variety not only makes parakeets fascinating pets but also means there’s a parakeet out there to suit almost every bird enthusiast’s preference and budget!
First-Time Expenses of Owning a Parakeet
Getting a parakeet is a fun and exciting experience. These little birds are pretty easy to take care of and don’t need much space or an overly complex setup.
But before you bring one home, it’s good to be prepared for the initial costs to ensure they have everything they need to be happy and healthy. Here’s a breakdown of the typical first-time expenses for owning a parakeet:
| Expense Item | Price Range (USD) |
| Cage and Enclosure | $60 – $100 |
| Cage liners | $10 – $25 |
| Perches | $10 – $20 |
| Toys and Enrichment | $10 – $50 |
| Food and Water Dishes | $10 – $30 |
| Food and Treats (Initial) | $10 – $30 |
| Cleaning Supplies | $10 – $20 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $50 – $100 |
| Travel Carrier | $10 – $40 |
| Books and Resources | $5 – $20 |
| Total Initial Cost | $185 – $435 |
As you can see, getting ready for a parakeet isn’t too hard on your wallet, but it’s important to get all the right things. Plan your budget, choose quality products, and enjoy the delightful experience of having a parakeet as a pet!
Pro Tip: Consider getting two parakeets. Parakeets in pairs tend to be happier and more active, which can reduce the need for extra entertainment expenses.
If you’re going to do this, it’s usually best to choose two males, as females can be more territorial and prone to conflicts over space.
Annual Cost of Owning a Parakeet
Owning a parakeet is a great choice, especially if you’re new to pet ownership. These birds are known for being beginner-friendly and relatively inexpensive to care for.
Here’s a quick look at how much you’ll probably spend each year on caring for your parakeet:
| Expense Item | Yearly Estimate (USD) |
| Food and Treats | $120 – $240 |
| Toys and Accessories | $20 – $100 |
| Vet Visits | $50 – $200 |
| Cage Maintenance | $30 – $50 |
| Cleaning Supplies | $30 – $60 |
| Pet Insurance | $80 – $240 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $50 – $100 |
| Yearly Total | $380 – $990 |
| Average Monthly Cost | $32 – $82 |
Remember, these costs can vary depending on where you shop and what your parakeet needs. Pet insurance is optional but can be helpful for unexpected health issues.
While parakeets are relatively low-maintenance compared to larger pets, it’s nonetheless essential to be financially prepared for their care.
By considering these yearly costs, you can ensure that your parakeet leads a happy and healthy life while keeping your budget in check.
Other Potential Expenses
When budgeting for parakeets, it’s smart to consider some additional expenses that might pop up. Here are five potential costs to keep in mind:
- Emergency Vet Visits: Even with good care, parakeets can get sick unexpectedly, and emergency vet visits can be costly. On average, an emergency visit can range from $100 to $300, depending on the treatment needed.
- Grooming Services: While you can take care of your parakeet’s grooming needs at home, professional grooming services for nail and beak trimming can be a good option if you prefer to leave these tasks to experts or if your parakeet is particularly resistant to grooming. These services typically cost between $10 and $30 per session.
- Bird-Sitting Services: If you need to travel and can’t bring your parakeet, you’ll need bird-sitting or boarding services. These can cost you about $15 to $30 per day.
- Breeding Costs: If you decide to breed your parakeet, you’ll have to spend more on things like a bigger cage, nesting materials, and potential vet care. This can add up to between $100 and $300, depending on the needs.
- Replacement of Cage and Accessories: Over time, cages and accessories like perches, feeders, and toys will wear out and need replacing, especially if your parakeet is particularly active or a bit of a chewer. This can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on what needs replacing.
While parakeets are generally affordable to keep, these additional costs are something to keep in mind. Planning ahead for these expenses can help you avoid any surprises and ensure that your parakeet stays happy and healthy.
Just like any pet, they need your care and attention, and budgeting for these potential expenses is all part of the journey of being a great parakeet owner.
Have you ever owned a parakeet? We’d love to hear your stories and help answer any questions you might have regarding parakeet costs. Feel free to share your experiences and inquiries in the comment section below.
