Owning an exotic pet like a monkey often seems appealing, but before getting one, an important question to ask is: how much do monkeys cost? The prices of monkeys can vary greatly depending on the breed and source.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Monkeys typically cost between $4,000 and $8,000 from a reputable breeder in the United States. However prices can range from a few hundred dollars for smaller monkey species imported from overseas to over $10,000 for rare breeds from specialty breeders.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about monkey costs including factors that impact price, typical price ranges for popular breeds, monthly expenses for food and care, tips for finding reputable sellers, and more.
Key Factors That Determine Monkey Pricing
Breed and Species Size
The breed and size of the monkey greatly impact price. Tiny monkeys like marmosets and tamarins generally range from $1,500-$4,500. Medium-sized monkeys, like squirrel and capuchin monkeys, cost $3,000-$10,000 on average.
Large primate species such as macaques, baboons, and mandrills typically sell for $7,500-$15,000 or more.
Age and Health
Younger monkeys usually command higher prices than older monkeys. Infant and juvenile monkeys can sell for 2-3 times the price of adult monkeys, as people like adopting babies. Health testing and veterinary care also influence cost.
Sick monkeys or those with medical issues are cheaper, but have higher lifetime care costs.
Source and Seller Reputation
USDA-licensed and accredited breeders charge premium rates since they invest heavily in proper facilities, diets, enrichment and vet care. Their monkeys also undergo strict quarantine and screening. Private owners rehoming pets or roadside zoos tend to price monkeys lower.
However there are ethical issues and health risks with such sources.
Supply and Demand
Pricier monkeys like capuchins see constant demand for use in labs, zoos and as pets. Rarer exotics like uakaris or endangered primates command very high prices. More common species like macaques have seen prices decline recently as breeding outpaces demand.
Seasonality also impacts price, with slightly lower rates in fall/winter off-seasons.
Housing and Feeding Costs
Since most monkeys are exotic species requiring specialized care, their lifetime cost and maintenance is substantial. This factors into upfront purchase rates. Average lifetime care costs:
| Outdoor Housing | $15,000+ |
| Indoor Housing & Enrichment | $5,000+ |
| Yearly Food | $2,000+ |
| Vet Bills | $1,000+ |
Typical Purchase Prices by Monkey Breed
Capuchins
Capuchin monkeys are highly intelligent and energetic New World primates that make popular exotic pets. On average, capuchins cost between $3,000-$10,000 depending on factors like age, sex, and coloration. The most affordable capuchins are young juveniles around 2-3 years old that cost $3,000-$5,000.
Adult capuchins over 5 years old generally range from $8,000-$10,000. Capuchins with rare color morphs like albinos can cost over $15,000. Reputable breeders and brokers like Primrose Exotic Animals offer capuchins of various ages and color morphs.
Squirrel Monkeys
Squirrel monkeys are energetic, acrobatic primates native to Central and South America. These tiny monkeys typically cost $4,000-$6,500 for babies and $8,000+ for adults over 5 years old. Breeders like Exotic Animals for Sale and Primrose Exotic Animals offer various ages and color variations.
Due to their small size and high-energy nature, squirrel monkeys require large secure enclosures with ample vertical climbing space to thrive as pets.
Marmosets
Marmosets are diminutive New World monkeys that measure around 8-15 inches tall as adults. Their compact size makes them a popular exotic pet species. Expect to pay $1,500-$4,500 for a pet marmoset depending on age, species, and color.
The most common species kept as pets are the finger-sized pygmy marmoset and larger cotton-top tamarin. Reputable marmoset breeders include Primrose Exotic Animals, Exotic Animals for Sale, and Marvelous Marmosets.
Tamarins
Along with marmosets, tamarins are small primates native to the rainforests of Central and South America. Tamarins range from $1,500 for young juveniles to $3,500+ for rare color morphs like red-handed tamarins. The emperor and cotton-top tamarins are most commonly kept as pets.
Tamarins are highly active and require a secure, enriched habitat. Ensure proper research and preparation before getting one of these expert-level primates as a pet.
Others
More rare and larger monkey species can cost substantially more than smaller monkeys like capuchins and tamarins. For example, adult macaques typically range from $7,500-$12,000. Larger apes like chimpanzees are rarely sold to private individuals, but can cost over $60,000.
Ensure you check regulations in your state and acquire proper permits before purchasing any exotic primate as a pet. Reach out to reputable brokers like Primrose Exotic Animals to learn more about available monkeys for sale.
Estimated Monthly Care Costs
Owning a monkey can be an expensive endeavor, with costs adding up for food, housing, vet care, and other essentials. Here’s a look at what you might expect to budget for your monkey companion each month.
Food
A nutritionally balanced diet is crucial for a monkey’s health and wellbeing. Depending on the type and size of monkey, you may spend $50-150 per month on high-quality commercial primate diets, fruits, vegetables, treats, and supplements.
Housing
Monkeys need lots of space to climb, swing, and engage in natural behaviors. For an indoor cage or enclosure, expect to spend at least $500-2,000 upfront, with ongoing costs for bedding, toys, and cleaning supplies. Outdoor housing is ideal, but can add $1,000+ in construction.
Veterinary Care
Annual vet exams, vaccines, and emergency care for illness or injury quickly add up. Budget $100-300 per month to cover exams, lab work, procedures under anesthesia, medications, and more.
Enrichment
Preventing boredom is crucial. Puzzle feeders, foraging boxes, swings, tunnels, and similar items run $50-100 per month. You may also enroll your monkey in a special training or enrichment program for socialization and mental stimulation.
Supplements
Certain vitamins, minerals, and nutritional supplements support immune system function and general health. These average around $30-60 per month.
Grooming
Nail clipping, brushing, bathing supplies, and professional grooming average $20-50 monthly.
Miscellaneous
Other potential costs include damage-proofing your home, exotic pet sitting fees while traveling, waste removal services, permits and insurance. Budget an extra $100 or more to be safe.
Tips for Finding an Ethical Seller
Finding an ethical and reputable seller is crucial when looking to purchase a monkey. Here are some tips to help ensure you find a seller that prioritizes animal welfare:
Research Breeders Thoroughly
Take time to thoroughly research any breeder or seller you are considering. Search online for reviews, complaints, licensing information, and inspection reports. Reputable breeders will be transparent about their practices and facilities.
Beware of sellers without much of an online presence or those with concerning reviews.
Ask Lots of Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask potential sellers lots of questions. Here are some important things to ask about:
- What species and breeds do they have experience with?
- Where are the monkeys born and raised?
- What are their housing conditions like?
- What is their diet and enrichment plan?
- How often are they handled and socialized?
- Will they provide veterinary records?
Reputable sellers will happily answer all your questions. Be wary if a seller seems evasive or annoyed.
Visit the Facility in Person
Ideally, you should visit a seller’s facility in person before purchasing. This allows you to see firsthand how the monkeys are cared for. Watch for any red flags like overcrowding, small enclosures, lack of enrichment, etc. Some warning signs could indicate neglect or unethical treatment.
Ask for Referrals
Ask the seller for referrals from past customers. Reach out to these references and ask about their experience. This can provide valuable insight into the seller’s business practices. Responsible breeders should have no problem providing references.
Confirm Proper Licensing
Make sure the seller has all required state and federal licenses to legally breed and sell monkeys. Licensing helps ensure they adhere to certain care standards. Be extremely wary of any unlicensed sellers.
Consider Primate Sanctuaries
As an alternative to breeders, you may want to adopt a monkey from a primate sanctuary. These nonprofit organizations provide lifetime care to rescued monkeys. Adopting from a sanctuary supports their mission and provides a home to a monkey in need.
Finding an ethical monkey breeder requires diligence and patience. Following these tips can help you make an informed decision and find a responsible seller prioritizing animal welfare. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Permit and Legal Requirements
Owning a monkey can be complicated due to the extensive permit and legal requirements involved. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering getting a monkey:
Exotic Animal Permits
Most states require an exotic animal permit to own a monkey. This involves submitting an application and paying a fee that can range from $100-$500 per year depending on your state. You may also need to undergo a home inspection to ensure your facilities meet requirements for housing a monkey.
Import Licenses
If you plan to import a monkey from overseas, you’ll need approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This requires obtaining a Wildlife Import/Export License and having your animal cleared by a USDA veterinarian upon arrival to the U.S.
Local Laws and Regulations
Many cities and counties have additional rules regarding ownership of exotic pets like monkeys. Some have outright bans, while others restrict the species allowed or require spaying/neutering. Be sure to check your local exotic pet ordinances.
For example, owning a monkey is illegal within city limits in New York, Denver, and parts of California. Meanwhile, Wisconsin, Idaho, and Alabama have no statewide exotic animal laws, so regulations are determined locally.
Veterinary Care
It can be difficult to find a vet qualified to treat monkeys. Exotic animal vet clinics are sparse, so be prepared to drive for care. Vet costs for monkeys also tend to run higher due to their specialization.
| Average Annual Vet Costs for a Monkey | $800-$2,500+ |
Make sure to factor ongoing vet care into your budget if considering monkey ownership.
As you can see, the permit and legal requirements involved with owning a monkey are extensive. From state and federal licenses to local laws and veterinary considerations, proper Monkey ownership involves in-depth planning and preparation. Be sure to do your homework before taking the plunge!
Conclusion
While monkeys can make intriguing pets, it’s important to carefully consider the substantial purchase price along with monthly care and permit costs before getting one. Working with an ethical, regulated breeder is also key to getting a healthy pet and avoiding supporting capture from the wild or inhumane breeding practices.
With the right research and preparation, a pet monkey can be a delightful lifelong companion for the properly equipped owner. Just be sure you have both the financial means and ability to meet all of a monkey’s complex needs before embarking on owning one.
