How Much Does It Cost to Raise Egg-Laying Chickens? Beginner’s Guide to Setup, Feed, & Best Breeds

Thinking about bringing a few feathery friends into your backyard but wondering how much it’ll actually cost? Raising egg-laying chickens can feel like a big leap at first, but with a little planning, it’s surprisingly manageable. From the coop you choose to the feed you provide and the breeds you select, every decision plays a role in both your budget and your flock’s happiness.

In this guide, we’ll break down the costs and essentials so you can start your egg-laying adventure with confidence and maybe even a few extra dollars left in your pocket.

The Initial Investment for Your Flock

Housing: Coop Options & Pricing

Providing your flock with a safe, comfortable home is the first step—and one of the largest initial expenses. Chickens need protection from weather, predators, and overcrowding, so your coop choice is critical.

• DIY Coop: For those who enjoy hands-on projects, building your own coop can save money while allowing customization to fit your backyard. Material costs for a small DIY coop can range from $200 to $500, depending on lumber, hardware, and netting quality. Larger coops for multiple hens may cost $500–$1,000 in materials. Don’t forget essentials like nest boxes (one per 4–5 birds), roosts, and proper ventilation.
• Prefabricated Coop: Ready-made coops are convenient and time-saving. Prices vary based on size and features: small coops for 2–6 hens can start around $300, while larger units for 10–12 birds may exceed $1,000. Many come with additional features like built-in nesting boxes, runs, or weatherproofing.
• Security Must-Haves: Regardless of the type, predator-proofing is non-negotiable. Reinforced hardware cloth, lockable doors, and secure runs protect against raccoons, foxes, hawks, and neighborhood dogs. Adequate ventilation and insulation are also critical to maintain healthy, comfortable conditions year-round.

Chicks, Pullets, or Layers? (Flock Sourcing Cost)

Your next decision is choosing the age of your chickens, which significantly affects startup costs and management complexity:

• Day-old Chicks: These are the most affordable option, typically $3–$5 per chick, but they require the most care, including brooding, temperature control, and careful monitoring. Survival rates are not 100%, and sexing is only about 90% accurate, meaning you may end up with unexpected roosters.
• Pullets (8–16 weeks, near laying): Pullets cost more upfront, usually $5–$25 per bird, but they start laying eggs sooner and skip the delicate brooding stage. For beginners seeking faster egg production with less hands-on chick care, pullets are often the ideal compromise.
• Adult Layers: Fully mature hens ready to lay can cost $20–$200 each, depending on breed and rarity. While this option minimizes the waiting time for eggs, it’s generally not recommended for beginners due to the high initial cost and limited acclimation period for the birds in a new environment.

Brooding & Essential Gear

If you’re starting with chicks or pullets, you’ll also need brooding and feeding essentials:

• Heat Sources: Heat lamps or plates are necessary to maintain proper temperature for chicks, especially during their first 6–8 weeks. Expect to spend $20–$50 depending on type and quality.
• Feeders & Waterers: Basic feeding and watering equipment can cost $10–$20, while larger or more durable models may exceed $50. Ensure enough capacity for growing chicks and adult hens.
• Starter Feed: High-quality chick starter feed is crucial for early development. A small flock may consume 3–4 pounds per week initially, translating to $10–$20 per month in feed for the first few months.

Investing thoughtfully in these essentials ensures your flock gets a strong start, reduces stress for both you and the chickens, and sets the stage for consistent egg production. While the upfront costs can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand for larger or prebuilt setups, careful planning makes raising egg-laying chickens both practical and rewarding.

Budgeting for Feed, Bedding, and Care

The Biggest Expense: Feed Breakdown

Feeding your chickens consistently is the largest ongoing cost and directly affects their health and egg production.

• Starter/Grower vs. Layer Pellets: Chicks and pullets require starter or grower feed, while laying hens need layer pellets that are higher in calcium. A 50 lb bag of starter or grower feed typically costs around $20–$25, while a 50 lb bag of layer feed ranges from $18–$30, depending on brand and quality.
• Cost per Chicken, Per Month: On average, a laying hen consumes about 1/4 to 1/3 pound of feed daily, roughly translating to 5 pounds per month per bird. This means feed costs about $2–$3 per chicken per month for a small flock. As your flock grows, these costs scale proportionally.
• Treats and Supplements: Chickens benefit from occasional treats and essential supplements.
  • Grit: Needed for digestion; free-range birds often find natural grit, but confined flocks should have store-bought grit.
  • Oyster Shell: Provides calcium for strong eggshells. If your layer feed already contains calcium, this may be optional, but many keepers provide it for peak egg production.
  • Scratch and Kitchen Scraps: Give in moderation to supplement their diet without replacing complete feed.

By carefully managing feed quality and portion sizes, you can maintain healthy hens while keeping costs reasonable.

Bedding and Maintenance

A clean, comfortable coop is essential for flock health and odor control.

• Cost of Pine Shavings or Straw: Bedding materials typically cost $5–$10 per month for a small backyard flock. Pine shavings are absorbent and help control odor, while straw can provide extra warmth in colder months.
• Cleaning Methods: You can choose between deep litter—adding fresh bedding on top of old layers, which composts naturally—and frequent cleaning, which involves removing all bedding weekly. Both methods are effective; deep litter reduces labor but requires careful management to prevent odor or ammonia buildup, while frequent cleaning increases sanitation but demands more time.

Healthcare and Emergency Fund

Even with healthy hens, veterinary care and preparedness are important.

• Basic First Aid Kit: A small kit including antiseptic, wound spray, and poultry medications is recommended and costs around $20–$30.
• Potential Vet Costs: While backyard chickens are hardy, occasional vet visits, vaccinations, or treatments for illness may arise. Budgeting $50–$100 annually per small flock ensures you’re prepared for unexpected medical expenses.

By planning for feed, bedding, and healthcare, you can confidently manage your ongoing expenses. A well-fed, well-cared-for flock is not only more productive but also more resilient to seasonal challenges, health issues, and the everyday demands of backyard chicken keeping.

Best Egg-Laying Chickens for Beginners

1. Rhode Island Red

Rhode Island Reds are one of the most popular dual-purpose breeds, known for hardiness and consistent egg production. They lay about 4–6 brown eggs per week and are resilient in cold and hot climates. Reds are friendly but can be a bit assertive, making them better suited for slightly older children or adults.

Pros: Hardy, excellent layers, adaptable.
Cons: Can be territorial if not socialized early.

2. Plymouth Rock (Barred Rock)

Barred Rocks are perfect for beginners due to their calm nature and reliable egg-laying abilities. They produce 4–5 medium brown eggs per week and enjoy human interaction, making them ideal for family flocks.

Pros: Friendly, easy to handle, good with other breeds.
Cons: Slower to mature than some hybrid layers.

3. Buff Orpington

The Buff Orpington is often called the “golden retriever of chickens” for its gentle, affectionate temperament. They lay 3–4 brown eggs per week and are highly tolerant of children’s handling, making them perfect for backyard flocks with young kids.

Pros: Calm, cuddly, beginner-friendly.
Cons: Slower layers compared to hybrid breeds.

4. Australorp

Australorps are calm, friendly, and highly productive, laying around 5 pale brown eggs per week. They adapt well to a range of climates and are excellent for first-time chicken owners.

Pros: Easy to handle, excellent layers, cold-hardy.
Cons: Slightly shy at first, but they warm up quickly.

5. Golden Comet

Golden Comets are hybrid chickens specifically bred for high egg production and friendly temperaments. They lay 5–6 brown eggs per week, making them one of the top choices for beginners focused on consistent egg output.

Pros: Friendly, prolific layers, easy-going.
Cons: Shorter lifespan than some heritage breeds.

6. Ameraucana

Ameraucanas are energetic, curious, and lay beautiful blue eggs, about 3–4 per week. They are friendly and adaptable, making them a fun choice for beginners who want a colorful egg basket and a lively, approachable flock.

Pros: Unique egg color, friendly, cold-hardy.
Cons: Energetic and can be more flighty than calm breeds.

7. Wyandotte

Wyandottes are excellent winter layers, producing 4–5 pale brown eggs per week. They are smart, calm, and have broody tendencies, making them great for beginners interested in raising chicks.

Pros: Cold-hardy, good layers, family-friendly.
Cons: May go broody frequently, which can reduce egg output temporarily.

8. Sussex

Sussex chickens are intelligent, calm, and energetic. They produce 4–5 eggs per week and are excellent for first-time keepers who want a friendly, adaptable breed for a mixed backyard flock.

Pros: Friendly, easy-going, productive.
Cons: Can be slightly flighty if startled.

9. Silkies

Silkies are small, gentle, and quiet, laying about 3 eggs per week. While they aren’t the most prolific layers, their unique fluffy plumage and docile nature make them perfect for beginners and young children.

Pros: Extremely kid-friendly, calm, entertaining.
Cons: Lower egg production, need extra care for weather protection.

10. Cochin

Cochins are large, friendly, and cold-hardy, laying 2–3 brown eggs per week. Their calm temperament and broody instincts make them ideal for families who want pet-like chickens and may want to hatch chicks.

Pros: Sweet, gentle, excellent mothers.
Cons: Low egg production compared to hybrids.

Beginner’s Guide to Raising Chickens for Eggs

From Brooder to Coop: The Transition

Raising healthy chicks begins with proper brooding and gradually introducing them to their outdoor coop.

Temperature Requirements (Week by Week)

Chicks are sensitive to temperature, and maintaining the right warmth is crucial for their survival and growth:

• Week 1: 95°F (35°C) – Provide a heat lamp and ensure chicks can move away from heat if they are too warm.
• Week 2: 90°F (32°C) – Gradually lower the temperature by 5°F each week.
• Week 3: 85°F (29°C) – Watch for signs of crowding under the heat source (too cold) or scattering (too hot).
• Week 4: 80°F (27°C) – Provide plenty of space, clean bedding, and continue monitoring comfort.
• Week 5–6: 75°F (24°C) – Chicks are ready to begin adjusting to outdoor conditions.
• Week 6–8: 70°F (21°C) – Fully feathered chicks can begin their transition to outdoor living.

When to Introduce Outdoor Access

• Start with supervised outdoor time for a few hours a day once chicks are fully feathered, typically around 6–8 weeks.
• Ensure the outdoor run is secure, predator-proof, and has shaded areas to protect chicks from direct sun.
• Gradually increase outdoor time until chicks are comfortable spending full days outside before permanently moving them to the coop.

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Care Checklist

Proper care and routine maintenance ensure your flock stays healthy, productive, and happy. Here’s a detailed checklist for beginners:

Daily Care

• Feeding & Watering: Fresh feed and clean water for all birds. Monitor consumption for signs of illness.
• Egg Collection: Collect eggs at least twice daily to prevent breakage and reduce the risk of hens eating their own eggs.
• Observation: Watch for signs of illness or abnormal behavior, such as lethargy, respiratory issues, or changes in droppings.

Weekly Care

• Coop Cleaning: Remove droppings, replace soiled bedding, and clean feeders and waterers.
• Check Security: Inspect the coop and outdoor run for gaps, loose wire, or signs of predator intrusion.
• Dust Baths: Ensure dust bath areas are clean and accessible to control mites and parasites.

Monthly Care

• Deep Clean: Remove all bedding and scrub the coop with a mild disinfectant. Allow to dry completely before returning chickens.
• Health Checks: Inspect each bird for parasites, feather loss, or other health issues. Provide supplemental grit or oyster shell as needed.
• Equipment Maintenance: Check feeders, waterers, nesting boxes, and perches for wear and repair as necessary.

For beginners, keeping track of care tasks can be simplified with a downloadable “How to Raise Chickens for Eggs Checklist PDF”, covering daily, weekly, and monthly responsibilities. This resource ensures that no step is overlooked and helps new poultry owners stay organized and confident in managing their flock.