Americans raising backyard chickens surge by 28% due to soaring egg prices and bird flu outbreaks; 11 million households now own flocks.

Americans raising backyard chickens surge by 28% due to soaring egg prices and bird flu outbreaks; 11 million households now own flocks.

The nationwide egg shortage and subsequent surge in prices have pushed many Americans to start raising their own chicken flocks. According to the American Pet Products Association, the number of U.S. households owning backyard chickens has increased by 28% since 2023, reaching 11 million households [2]. This trend is driven by high egg prices and the ongoing avian flu outbreaks that have decimated commercial flocks.

Tractor Supply Co., a leading rural retailer, has seen a record number of chick sales this year as novice and experienced poultry farmers alike seek to take control of their food supply. The company's Chief Executive Officer, Hal Lawton, noted that the demand for chicks has been so strong that they are selling out "instantly" at many locations [1]. While the initial cost of chicks ranges from $2 to $4 each, secondary purchases such as coops, feed, and heat lamps can add up to $300 to $400 per year, driving recurring customer visits [1].

The surge in egg prices has been attributed to several factors, including the avian flu outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that over 168 million birds have been affected between January 2022 and April 2025 [2]. Additionally, inflation and supply chain disruptions have contributed to higher prices, with the consumer price index for eggs increasing by 60.4% from a year ago [2]. The push for cage-free chickens, particularly in California, has also impacted egg production and prices.

The increased demand for backyard chickens has led to a decline in commercial egg production. The United Egg Producers reported that egg production totaled 93.1 billion in 2024, down 1% from 2023 [2]. Despite the decrease in commercial production, per capita egg consumption has remained relatively stable, with Americans consuming nearly 295 eggs per year in 2019 [2].

As the trend of backyard chicken ownership continues to grow, it is essential for investors and financial professionals to monitor this developing market. The increase in demand for chicken-related products and services, such as feed and coop supplies, presents potential opportunities for growth in the agricultural sector.

References:
[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-24/egg-prices-drive-more-americans-to-start-own-chicken-flocks
[2] https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/04/20/a-look-at-egg-prices-and-where-the-fight-against-avian-flu-is/