Just wondering....

[MDG3]

In 1.5 years since I started I've spent $1500.00 and that was "NOT" including a used free tank, stand, DIY canopy, live rock, sand/crushed coral substrate, 2 clownfish and 1 flame hawkfish.

If you get used like some have said, It helps a little.

[Snappy]

Originally Posted by BMW Rider

Well, I just looked it up in my accounting software and since setting up my first reef tank three years ago I've spent about $20K

Of course I'm addicted to expensive toys and upgrades.

I have spent at least that as well, but I don't smoke or drink or do drugs so my money has to go somewhere. I can't really afford it but I also can't afford not to do it. I find this hobby extremely rewarding, (and at times extremely frustrating) so it is hard to attach a price-tag to both the enjoyment and mood swings it creates. When it's going well I love it and when it's going bad, I hate it, but I still love it.
If I could start over with the knowledge I have gained it would cost a lot less. The school of "hard knocks" has an expensive tuition.
I found out that spending the extra and doing it right the first time costs far less than cutting corners trying to save a buck or two, and then eventually having to fix it to make it right anyway.

[Canadbis]

Well I dont make a ton of money, and I have three Kids and a whack of other creatures. But hey you have to have a hobby
My boss spent more on golf in the summer
a friend bought a bike worth more than what I have spent
I make sure the family has everything we need then ALL the rest goes into the addict....err...ummm.....Hobby, yeah hobby thats right
Everyone has a hobby and most are expensive, Heck I have a few hobbies but fish is the expensive one

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Yeah...I don't have kids, so I should quit complaining about costs

And I quit smoking, so....now I can spend the money on the aquarium instead of filling my body with toxins!

Oh, and I hate golf. *shudder*