I have 2 salty tanks. it really depends how big of a tank you go for how much works it requires and what kind of equipment you're willing to pay for. on my 120 gallon I bought all top of the line equipment and it needs probably twice weekly maintenance just for things like cleaning the protein skimmer and filter socks, wiping out salt from the sump and tank lid, and stuff like that. then I do about bi-weekly water changes and change about 25% everytime. then on my 16 gallon, it's still cycling so no water changes just yet, but I have been doing tests quite often, and I'll need to be doing at least 25% water changes each week instead of bi-weekly, but it is only 4 gallons a week anyways so not too bad. I will offer you this one piece of advice. it isn't too much work but it will be A LOT more expensive if you want to do it right, (especially if you want coral) and BIGGER IS MUCH BETTER! (in terms of your tank size. more margin for error)