Corn Snake Cost: Demystifying The Price Tag for Owning These Slithery Pets (2024)

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The cost of a corn snake depends on several factors. Hatchlings usually range from $20 to $50 for normal morphs, while unique ones can be $50 to $150, and rare variants exceed $150. Adults often cost $50 to $150, with higher prices for distinct morphs or captive-bred snakes.

Housing includes a 20-gallon terrarium, heating, lighting, and decor, adding up quickly. Ongoing expenses like food, veterinary care, and maintenance also play a role. Where you buy—breeder vs. pet store—affects the price.

Want to uncover more on Corn Snake costs? Stick around for the details!

How Much Does a Corn Snake Cost?

A corn snake typically costs between $30 and $150, depending on factors like age, morph variety, and purchase source. Prices for hatchlings or common morphs are usually lower compared to rare or unique morphs.

Initial Cost

The initial cost of owning a corn snake largely depends on whether you opt for a hatchling or an adult. Hatchlings typically range from $20 to $50 for normal varieties. Adults can cost anywhere from $40 to $100.

Additionally, the rarer and more unique the morph variety, such as albinos or hybrids, the higher the price tag. Some exceptional specimens reach into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Hatchling Prices

Hatchling corn snakes offer an affordable entry into this captivating hobby. Expect to pay:

1. $20-$50 for normal patterns
2. $50-$150 for unique morphs
3. $150+ for rare genetic combinations

Prices vary based on the hatchling’s age, geographic location, seasonal availability, color patterns, and any special needs. With proper care, these slithery companions make rewarding pets.

Adult Prices

While hatchlings offer an affordable entry point, adult corn snakes come with a higher price tag. You’ll typically pay $50-$150 for a standard adult, depending on age, size, and temperament. However, expect higher costs for captive-bred adults with distinct color morphs or proven breeding history.

Age	Average Cost
1-2 years	$60 – $100
3-5 years	$80 – $150
6+ years	$100 – $200

Older snakes may have health issues, but their calm temperaments can appeal to experienced owners.

Morph Varieties

With corn snakes, you’ll also encounter a dazzling array of morph varieties bred for their unique genetic patterns and coloration variations. Some coveted morphs result from dedicated breeding projects, while others occur naturally due to pattern inheritance. However, certain morphs may carry potential health implications, so research is key before investing.

Housing and Setup

You’ll need an appropriately sized enclosure for your corn snake, typically a front-opening glass or plastic terrarium measuring at least 20-gallons for an adult snake. Proper heating, such as an under-tank heater or ceramic heat emitter, and low-wattage lighting for supplemental basking are essential, as corn snakes require specific temperature gradients.

Enclosure

For an ideal enclosure, you’ll need a cage befitting your corn snake’s mature length, with secure front-opening doors and ample ventilation. Provide hiding spots, a large water bowl, and climbing branches or decor to encourage natural behaviors. Ensure proper cage size for comfortable stretching and movements. A well-designed habitat keeps these semi-arboreal snakes thriving.

Heating and Lighting

You’ll need adequate heating and lighting for your corn snake’s enclosure. Provide:

• UVB lighting for proper metabolic function
• Incandescent bulbs for basking areas around 85-90°F
• Under-tank heat pads for ambient temperatures of 75-80°F
• Thermostats or rheostats for precise temperature control

Ensuring suitable temperatures with proper wattage bulbs and heating elements is essential for your snake’s well-being.

Substrate and Decor

You’ll need a suitable substrate like cypress mulch or coconut fiber to maintain proper humidity. Provide hides, branches, artificial plants, and a burrowing area for enrichment. A heat lamp is essential for maintaining the ideal basking temperature, while hygrometers and careful misting guarantee the right humidity level.

Substrate	Decor	Heating/Humidity
Cypress Mulch	Artificial Plants, Branches	Heat Lamp
Coconut Fiber	Hide Boxes, Burrowing Area	Hygrometer
Proper Depth	Natural Look	Misting System

Ongoing Expenses

You’ll need to factor in the recurring costs of feeding your corn snake an appropriate diet, such as whole animal prey like mice and rats, which should be approximately 1.5 times the width of the snake’s midsection as outlined in the complete corn snake feeding guide. This typically consists of frozen rodents that can range from a few dollars to over $10 per feeding, depending on the size of your snake.

Regular veterinary checkups and potential medical expenses should also be considered. Even minor ailments can incur substantial bills for specialized reptile care.

Food and Feeding

You’ll need to factor in the cost of feeding your corn snake – typically frozen rodents like mice or rats. Avoid live feeders to prevent injury. Adults eat every 7-14 days, while juveniles require more frequent meals. Buy in bulk from reputable suppliers for better prices and convenience.

Veterinary Care

Regular vet visits are essential for preventative care and addressing common health issues like respiratory infections or mouth rot. While exotic pet insurance is uncommon, setting aside funds for emergency vet visits is advisable. Reptile insurance plans are emerging but still rare, so budgeting for potential medical expenses is key.

Supplies and Maintenance

You’ll need to guarantee proper water availability, enclosure size, hiding spaces, and humidity levels for your corn snake’s well-being. Invest in quality substrates, hides, and enclosure furnishings, but don’t forget enrichment activities like climbing branches or prey-scented hides to keep your scaly companion engaged. Regular enclosure maintenance is key to a healthy, stimulating environment.

Factors Affecting Cost

The cost of a corn snake can vary greatly depending on whether you acquire it from a breeder or a pet store.

While breeders typically offer a wider selection, including rare and unique morphs, purchasing from a local pet store may be more convenient but potentially more costly for certain varieties.

Online purchases can provide access to a broader range of options, but shipping costs and the absence of in-person inspection should be considered.

Breeder Vs Pet Store

Regarding the purchase of a corn snake, you’ll need to make a choice between a breeder or pet store.

Reputable breeders often have healthier, well-started snakes with diverse morphs, but limited availability.

Pet stores offer convenience with more selection, but snakes may have unknown histories or health issues.

Consider your priorities—reputation and health versus convenience and variety—to make the best choice.

Online Vs Local Purchase

Regarding corn snake purchases, online retailers often offer a larger selection, including rare morphs. However, local breeders or pet stores may provide better value and eliminate shipping costs. Consider the availability of desired morphs and the potential shipping expenses for online orders.

Rare or Unique Morphs

When diving into rare or unique morphs, expect costs to fluctuate based on:

1. Genetic traits: Certain color and pattern variations demand higher prices.
2. Origin and availability: Imported snakes can be more expensive.
3. Future value: Some morphs may appreciate in value over time, serving as potential investments.

   These factors intricately influence the overall price of your corn snake.

Cost-Saving Tips

You can save money by building your own enclosures, which often cost less than store-bought options. Buying supplies in bulk and considering adoption or rescue options instead of purchasing can further reduce overall expenses.

DIY Enclosures

Building your own corn snake enclosure can save money. Use materials like wood or glass for sturdy construction. Prioritize safety by smoothing edges and ensuring proper ventilation. Provide enough space for your snake to move comfortably. Enhance aesthetics with plants and decor, creating a habitat that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Bulk Buying Supplies

After crafting DIY enclosures, you can save more by bulk buying supplies. Seek wholesale vendors and consider joint purchases with other owners to get negotiated discounts. Subscription services for regular orders or participating in group orders can further reduce costs, ensuring you have everything needed without blowing your budget.

Adopting or Rescuing

Adopting or Rescuing a corn snake can save you a bundle:

• Adoption process: Usually inexpensive, sometimes free.
• Rescue organizations: Offer rehabilitated snakes needing homes.
• Fostering snakes: Temporarily care for them, often at no cost.
• Rehabilitation costs: Usually covered by the rescue.
• Volunteer opportunities: Gain experience, possibly leading to low-cost adoption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)