How Long Do Goldfish Live? Expert Tips To Increase Their Lifespan

The life expectancy of a goldfish is 10–15 years on average, notes Jessie Sanders, DVM, DABVP (Fish Practice), an aquatic veterinarian and owner of Aquatic Veterinary Services in Santa Cruz County, California. Some can live even longer than this, especially with optimal care.  

Factors that affect goldfish life expectancy include tank size (the more water the better), water quality, and a balanced diet. Stress from overcrowding, improper water conditions, and poor tank maintenance can all impact goldfish longevity, so it’s important to stay on top of these things when you become the proud owner of one of these beauties.  

 Goldfish Lifespan by Habitat

As you can see, goldfish kept in bowls or small containers typically have a shorter lifespan. This is due to poor water quality, lack of oxygen, and limited swimming space.   

“Fish should not be kept in small bowls; they need room to move around,” says Jena Questen, DVM, CertAqV, an aquatic veterinarian at Aspen Park Vet Hospital in Conifer, Colorado. “More water is always better. Always get the largest tank you possibly can. Even the smallest fish should really be in nothing less than 10 gallons, if possible.” 

The condition of a goldfish’s habitat is the primary factor affecting their lifespan. But some types of goldfish are known for living longer than others. Dr. Sanders says that, generally speaking, long-bodied goldfish—sarasas, shubunkins, comets, and common varieties—live much longer than fancy goldfish varieties, which include ranchus, pearlscales, and lionheads.

If you want to make sure your goldfish reaches their life expectancy—and has the happiest time doing it—then it’s important to set your aquatic pet up for success.   

Choosing a Healthy Goldfish 

When purchasing a new goldfish, look for signs that they’re healthy. Signs of a healthy goldfish include:   

• Clear, vibrant coloring  
• Smooth, clean scales  
• An alert and active appearance 
• Clear eyes 
• Smooth gill movements 
• Steady, unlabored breathing  

Dr. Questen recommends purchasing from a reputable fish breeder or dealer who specializes in aquatics, because they’re more likely to care for the fish properly before they’re sold.   

Setting Up Your Tank   

Remember, the more water for your goldfish, the better. Filtration and temperature are also factors to consider.

• Size: The tank should be no less than 10 gallons, but ideally it’s between 20 and 50 gallons, says Dr. Sanders. The more water, the more oxygen, the healthier your fish. Larger tanks are also easier to keep clean.  
• Filtration: Dr. Sanders stresses the importance of equipping your tank with a quality filtration system that aerates and circulates the water. She recommends the AquaClear® Powerhead Water Pump.  
• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Keeping the Tank Clean  

It’s important to keep your goldfish tank clean, but be mindful to not overclean their delicate habitat.  

“Most fish do great with a 25% water change once a week,” Dr. Questen says. “Some of that muck in the tank is fish poop and some is old food. But invisible to your naked eye are thousands of beneficial bacteria that live on the gravel, on the walls, and on the ornaments in the tank, as well as in the filter pads.”  

These invisible bacteria are what’s eating all the fish waste and keeping the tank clean, so sticking to only a weekly 25% water change is best.  

Feeding and Diet Requirements 

Choose a high-quality pellet food and follow the on-label feeding directions according to your goldfish type and number of goldfish. Dr. Sanders recommends Omega One® Medium Sinking Goldfish Pellets Fish Food. Goldfish generally don’t need supplements or other dietary additions as long as they’re fed a balanced diet. If you’re interested in supplements that enhance coloring or immunity, speak with your fish veterinarian first.  

Recognizing and Treating Illnesses 

Just like any other creature, goldfish are susceptible to illness and disease. “Learn to watch your little friends’ behavior each day and how they eat,” says Dr. Questen. “Are they stuck at the top or bottom of the tank? Is their skin clear of lumps and bumps? Are they happy to see you, and do their colors look bright? Being happy to see you and having good color are signs of a healthy fish. 

If you notice something is awry, consult an aquatic expert. Showing images and providing detailed information about their behavior/appearance can help assess and treat any issues, as well.