Complete leopard gecko setup: what starting budget do you need?
A complete leopard gecko setup represents a starting budget of 250 to 450 €, animal not included. It is one of the most affordable reptiles to house: no powerful UVB fixture required under classic protocols, economical under-tank heating and a reasonably sized terrarium are enough for a solid start.
What equipment makes up a complete leopard gecko kit?
The heart of the kit is a terrarium of at least 80 × 40 × 40 cm (100 to 200 €). Add a heat mat with thermostat (40-70 €), three hides including a humid shedding hide, a suitable substrate, two bowls and calcium and vitamin supplements (15-25 €).
Which criteria keep you from getting it wrong?
- Length first: as a ground-dwelling species, the gecko needs floor space;
- Heat mat under one third of the terrarium, set to 31-33 °C at the warm spot;
- Thermostat is mandatory: a bare mat can exceed 45 °C;
- Three hides minimum: warm, cool and humid;
- Gentle lighting: low-output UVB (2 to 5%) is a welcome bonus, never a scorching spot lamp.
How much does monthly upkeep cost?
The leopard gecko is frugal: 15 to 25 € a month covers crickets or insects and calcium, a few handfuls of substrate and modest electricity (a 15 W mat uses very little). Breeding your own feeder insects cuts the bill further. Also set aside a small reserve for an exotics vet visit in case of a health issue.
Ready-made kit or build your own?
Pet-shop kits at 150-200 € often include a 45 cm tank, fine for a juvenile but quickly outgrown. Building your setup piece by piece costs barely more and avoids buying twice. Compare terrariums and accessories before purchasing: price gaps between retailers easily reach 30% on strictly identical equipment.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a leopard gecko cost?
Expect 40 to 60 € for a standard animal, and up to 150-300 € for certain morphs. Choose a captive-bred gecko with a plump, well-filled tail.
Does a leopard gecko really need UVB?
It can live without it thanks to rigorous calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation, but a low-intensity UVB tube (2 to 5%) is increasingly recommended by vets: placed over only part of the terrarium, it lets the animal choose whether or not to bask.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Reptiles universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.