Depending on the breed and where you purchase one, a captive-bred chameleon pet can typically cost anywhere from $30 to $300. The Veiled Chameleon is one of the most common breeds among pet parents, one of the most affordable and one of the most recommended for new lizard pet parents. Panther Chameleons are one of the most expensive breeds due to the difficulty of breeding them and their reputation for being the most colorful and easy to handle.
However, the cost of purchasing a chameleon is just a portion of what you’ll pay over their lifetime. You’ll also spend money on chameleon pet supplies like a habitat, food, lamps and specific bedding for chameleons. Your pet will also require trips to a reptile veterinarian. Still, the cost of food over their lifetime and the amount of time you’ll spend taking care of them are often less than they would be with a cat or dog, which can offset some of this cost depending on your needs as a pet parent.