The initial cost is more, but once I got set up, the only thing I had to keep an eye on was the salt level and everything seems to take care of itself. I just don't have luck with fresh water (besides the koi pond). With my fresh water tanks, I was always messing with pH and everything else. Plus, you just can't beat the different personalities that saltwater fish offer! I miss having my tanks. We moved a few years ago and have not gotten another one yet.