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Rising Egg Prices and Backyard Chickens: Is It Time to Start Your Own Flock?

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If you’ve been to the grocery store recently, you’ve likely noticed the record-breaking price of eggs. It’s no secret that egg price increases have been hitting consumers hard, with near record-breaking increases leaving many wondering what’s behind the rising cost of eggs.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price of a carton of eggs in the United States has skyrocketed compared to last year. Empty shelves and a resulting egg shortage have made people consider creative ways to secure their own food supply—leading to a growing interest in raising chickens at home.

Egg Carton with Dollar Symbol on Brown Egg Highlighting Rising Egg Prices in the USA

Why Are Egg Prices So High?

The high prices we’re seeing are due to several factors, with one major culprit being the recent bird flu outbreak. Avian flu has devastated poultry farms across the country, forcing the U.S. Department of Agriculture to impose strict disease control measures. Additionally, supply costs for commercial eggs have increased, as feed costs, biosecurity measures, and too-few processors have made large-scale egg production more expensive.

Farmer collected chicken eggs from the nesting box and putting them in a basket

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The Appeal of Raising Backyard Chickens

For many, the idea of having their own backyard flock is a big draw. The thought of gathering fresh eggs daily and becoming more self-sufficient is appealing, especially when grocery store prices are unpredictable. Owning chickens can be a great way to save money in the long run while enjoying the benefits of knowing exactly where your food comes from.

Rebecca Thistlethwaite from the OSU College of Agricultural Sciences notes that while raising chickens can be a big money saver, it’s important for prospective chicken owners to be aware hens require consistent care. Chickens stop laying when daylight length decreases, meaning there are times when egg production may slow. Additionally, providing the right amount of nutrients, such as oyster shells for calcium, and good quality feed is essential for egg-laying hens.

close up on chicken in side coop in back yard

What to Consider Before Starting Your Own Flock

Raising backyard poultry isn’t just about getting a bunch of eggs—it requires commitment, time, and proper planning. Here are some key factors to consider before bringing home those cute little chicks.

  • Backyard Chicken Coop Design – Your coop needs proper ventilation, protection from large domestic cats and other predators, and enough space for hens to roost. The OSU Extension’s publication on poultry care suggests approximately 4 square feet of space per bird for the coop, 8 square feet of space for the run, and roughly one foot of roost space per bird.
  • Daily Care and Maintenance – Chickens require regular practice of cleaning coops, fresh water, and balanced hen feed. The daily chore of feeding and checking on them is something every chicken owner should be prepared for. Winters definitely require the most effort!
  • Climate and Shelter – A drafty coop in winter or an overheated one in summer can affect egg production. A solid roofline so heat doesn’t escape and enough wood shavings for insulation are important.
  • Costs and Upkeep – While chickens can be fed kitchen scraps, they still require good quality feed, especially during peak laying seasons. Monthly costs vary depending on geographic location and supply availability.
  • Legal Considerations – Some urban environments have restrictions on backyard poultry, so it’s essential to check local zoning laws before setting up a coop.
  • Health and Biosecurity – Chickens can be susceptible to various diseases, so following proper biosecurity measures, such as quarantining new birds and keeping their living area clean, is critical.
  • Egg Production Fluctuations – Hens don’t lay eggs consistently throughout their lives. They slow down with age and during certain seasons, so you may need to supplement your supply at times.
  • Predator Protection – Foxes, raccoons, hawks, and even neighborhood dogs can pose a threat to backyard flocks. Secure fencing and a well-built coop are necessary for their safety.
  • End-of-Life Planning – Chickens have a natural lifespan of several years, but their egg production slows down after a few years. Consider what you will do with hens at the end of their life cycle.

For more in-depth information on what you’ll need to start your backyard flock, check out my Backyard Chickens 101 article.

A Dixie Rainbow hen and her chicks roam the agricultural fields, grazing freely in the summer sun on the farm in nature. Free range hen eating on an organic egg farm

Is It Worth It?

While keeping a small flock is rewarding, it’s not without extra work. Dirty coops, extra care in the winter, and ensuring biosecurity measures are in place to prevent disease outbreaks all require effort. However, the rewards—free eggs, reduced reliance on commercial eggs, and the joy of watching your flock thrive—often outweigh the challenges. My chickens bring me so much joy, so of course, I find it worth it!   

Bottom Line

If you’ve ever considered starting your own backyard chickens, now might be the perfect time. While raising chickens is a slow process, the golden treasures they provide in the form of fresh eggs make it a fulfilling endeavor. So, whether you’re in an urban setting or have a backyard ready for a coop, taking the step toward self-sufficiency could be a good idea—just don’t forget the right mixture of preparation, commitment, and care!


What questions do you have? Let me know in the comments!

Related Posts:
Backyard Chickens 101
A Guide to Feeding Baby Chicks
Understanding Bird Flu in Chickens
What do Chickens Eat?

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