If you’ve ever dreamt of owning an African Grey Parrot, you already know they’re one of the most intelligent and captivating birds out there. But before you bring one home, you need to understand the **African Grey Parrot cost**—not just the upfront price but also the long-term expenses like food, vet bills, and enrichment.

From african grey parrot price to their care requirements and diet needs, this guide covers everything you’ll need to budget for. Whether you’re considering buying a baby African Grey or adopting an older bird, let’s dive into the real costs of owning one of these remarkable parrots.

How Much Does an African Grey Parrot Cost? (2025 Prices)

The African Grey Parrot price can vary dramatically depending on several factors, including:

Age (baby vs. adult)
Subspecies (Congo vs. Timneh African Grey)
Breeder reputation (pet store vs. certified breeder)
Location (country, state, or region)

African Grey Parrot Price Breakdown

Type of African Grey	Price Range (2025)	Notes
Baby Congo African Grey	$1,500 – $4,000+	Hand-fed babies from breeders are typically more expensive
Baby Timneh African Grey	$1,000 – $3,000	Slightly smaller and less expensive than Congo Greys
Rescue/Rehomed Adult	$500 – $1,500	Adoption is cheaper, but older birds may need extra care
Specialty/Pedigree Breeder	$3,000 – $6,000	High-end breeders charge premium prices

Why the price difference?

Breeders vs. Pet Stores: Reputable breeders often charge more due to health guarantees and proper socialization.
Proven Talking Ability: If a bird already mimics speech, expect to pay extra. (Learn more about African Grey talking secrets.)
Older Birds: Rescues and older parrots may need medical care, lowering upfront costs but increasing vet expenses.

African Grey Parrot Care Cost: Monthly & Annual Expenses

Buying the bird is just the first expense. African Greys require significant ongoing care, so your African Grey care cost includes:

Initial Setup Costs

Large Cage: $300–$1,000 (minimum 24”x36”x48” size)
Toys & Perches: $100–$300 (they need mental stimulation!)
Carrier (for vet visits): $50–$150

Monthly Care Costs

Expense	Cost (Monthly)
High-quality pellets & seeds	$30–$60
Fresh fruits & veggies	$20–$40
Toys & enrichment	$25–$50
Vet visits (annual check-up average)	$100–$300 per visit
Pet insurance (optional)	$15–$30

Most owners spend $115–$265 per month to keep an African Grey healthy and happy. (Source: Quora discussion on African Grey expenses.)

African Grey Parrot Lifespan: A Long-Term Commitment

One reason the African Grey Parrot cost is high is their impressive lifespan:

Wild African Greys: 25–40 years
Captive African Greys: 40–60+ years (with proper care)

Since they live so long, the total cost of ownership adds up over time:

10 Years: $13,800–$31,800 (avg. $1,380–$3,180 per year)
20 Years: $27,600–$63,600
40 Years: $55,200–$127,200

Key Takeaway: Adopting an African Grey is a decades-long commitment financially and emotionally.

African Grey Parrot Diet: Cost & Nutritional Needs

A proper African Grey Parrot diet is crucial for their health—skimping on food quality can lead to expensive vet bills.

Essential Diet Components

✅ High-quality pellets (60% of diet) – $20–$40/month
✅ Fresh vegetables (leafy greens, bell peppers, carrots) – $15–$30/month
✅ Fresh fruits (berries, apples, mangoes – no avocado!) – $10–$20/month
✅ Nuts & seeds (limited) – $10–$15/month

Avoid toxic foods like chocolate, caffeine, and high-salt snacks.

💡 Pro Tip: Many owners bulk-buy frozen mixed veggies to save money without sacrificing nutrition.

FAQs: African Grey Parrot Cost & Ownership

1. Why are African Greys so expensive?

They’re highly intelligent, long-lived, and demand specialized care, making them a premium pet. Breeding healthy birds also requires significant investment.

2. Can I find an African Grey for under $1,000?

Yes—through rescues or rehoming, but vet bills may offset savings. Some Redditors report finding them for $1,000.

3. How much does a talking African Grey cost?

Birds with proven speech skills can cost $2,000–$6,000+ from breeders.

4. Are African Greys worth the price?

If you’re prepared for their long lifespan, intelligence, and high maintenance, they make incredibly rewarding companions.

Final Thoughts: Is an African Grey Parrot Right for You?

Owning an African Grey Parrot is a major investment—both financially and emotionally. While their upfront cost ranges from $800–$6,000, the real expense comes from lifelong care, food, and vet bills.

For more insights, check out our Bird Species section for in-depth guides!

Got questions? Drop a comment below or share your experiences with African Grey ownership. Happy bird-keeping! 🦜💚