How Much Does It Cost to Raise & Own Backyard Chickens?

In recent years, with the cost of eggs and other essentials rising at the grocery store, many people have decided to raise and own their own chickens. After all, there are many benefits to fresh eggs and meat, organic pest control, and self-sufficiency. However, like any endeavor, there are costs associated with raising and owning backyard chickens. Before you decide to pick up a horde of chicks from your local farm store, consider how much it costs to raise and own backyard chickens. By understanding the one-time and ongoing costs, you can better prepare for your chicken-keeping life.

Initial Setup Costs of Raising and Owning Backyard Chickens

When embarking on backyard chicken keeping, the first step is to set up an appropriate housing environment for the birds. The cost of initial setup can vary depending on the size and complexity of the coop and the number of chickens you plan to keep. However, a fair estimate of the initial investment is between $500 and $1,500. You may end up spending more or less than this, depending on various features of your setup.

Ask yourself first, do you plan on keeping your chickens in a coop and run? Or will you let them roam free? How big of a flock do you want? Knowing these answers can help you better estimate the dimensions or number of the following:

Coop

Fencing

Nesting Boxes

Feeding and Watering Equipment

The Cost of Purchasing Chicks or Chickens

Once you have prepared the environment for your chickens, the next cost to consider is that of the flock. Acquiring feathered friends is also an expense. While you could adopt chickens or get them for free, these chickens are usually old enough to no longer produce eggs. Thus, procuring fertilized eggs from a reputable breeder is your best option. Keep in mind that the cost of the chicks is going to depend on their age, breed, and demand. Some popular breeds will be harder to obtain, and you will have to pay more per chick to get them.

Here is the general cost of chicks, pullets, and hens:

• Chicks: Purchasing chicks is an economical choice but requires additional care and time before they mature into productive layers. The cost of day-old chicks ranges from $2 to $5 each, depending on the breed.
• Pullets: Pullets are young female chickens nearing the point of lay. They are more expensive than chicks but can start producing eggs sooner. The cost of pullets typically ranges from $15 to $25 each.
• Hens: Mature hens that are already producing eggs are the most expensive option, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 per bird, depending on the breed and age.

Popular Chicken Breed Costs

Most chicks are going to run around the same price, but the popularity or rarity of the breed may also influence the cost. Here is a look at what some popular chicken breeds cost to obtain:

Breed	Chicks	Pullets	Hens
Rhode Island Red	$2 to $5	$15 to $25	$20 to $30
Plymouth Rock (Barred Rock)	$2 to $5	$15 to $25	$20 to $30
Sussex	$2 to $5	$15 to $25	$20 to $30
Leghorn	$2 to $5	$15 to $25	$20 to $30
Wyandotte	$2 to $5	$15 to $25	$20 to $30
Orpington	$3 to $7	$20 to $30	$25 to $40
Australorp	$3 to $7	$20 to $30	$25 to $40
Easter Egger (Araucana/Ameraucana mix)	$3 to $7	$20 to $30	$25 to $40
Silkie	$5 to $10	$25 to $35	$30 to $50

You can also watch this funny video with life hacks on choosing places to buy chickens:

Ongoing Cost of Raising and Owning Chickens

Now that you have made a lovely backyard for your flock and have chicks that will soon be laying eggs, the next thing to keep in mind is the upkeep. The ongoing costs of raising and owning backyard chickens is, fortunately, not as pressing as the initial investment. Generally, the maintenance costs of owning chickens is going to set you back around $200 to $400 a year. You could potentially recoup some of that expense by selling dozens of eggs or fresh poultry to the community.

With that in mind, here are more details on the various ongoing costs:

Chicken Feed

Healthcare Costs

Maintaining the health and well-being of your chickens is vital. While chickens are relatively low-maintenance animals, they may still require occasional veterinary care and preventative measures. Regular monitoring of your chickens’ health, practicing good biosecurity measures, and providing a clean and safe environment can help minimize the need for extensive veterinary care and reduce associated costs. Here are some potential costs to consider:

Medications and Vaccinations

Vaccinations are an important aspect of chicken health management, especially in areas where certain diseases are prevalent. Generally, vaccines for common diseases such as Marek’s disease, Newcastle disease, and infectious bronchitis can range from $2 to $5 per dose per bird. Some vaccines may require multiple doses or boosters, which can increase the overall cost. So, if you have a larger flock, that may amount to $100-$300 easily.

For example, if your flock of 10 chickens becomes infected with worms, you can find over-the-counter options for $10-30 per package. The cost may be higher than this, especially if you plan on purchasing a larger package.

In addition to vaccinations, occasional expenses for medications or treatments may arise if your chickens fall ill or require parasite control. Costs for medications can vary based on the type of medication, dosage requirements, and the number of birds being treated. It is advisable to consult with a veterinarian or poultry health expert to determine the appropriate medications and their associated costs for specific health conditions or preventive measures.

Veterinary Care

While chickens are generally hardy animals, there may be instances where professional veterinary care is necessary. Veterinary fees for chickens can vary depending on the location, the expertise of the veterinarian, and the complexity of the treatment required. It is wise to budget for potential veterinary costs, especially if you have a large flock or encounter any health issues.

Finding a veterinarian experienced in poultry care is crucial for the best possible treatment of your chickens. They can provide routine health checks, diagnose and treat illnesses, and offer guidance on flock management. Veterinary fees may include consultation charges, examination fees, diagnostic tests, medications, and any additional procedures or treatments. It’s recommended to inquire about the fees and services offered by local veterinarians to get a better understanding of potential costs.

Miscellaneous Costs of Raising and Owning Backyard Chickens

In addition to the costs mentioned above, there are other expenses that may arise when caring for backyard chickens.

Maintenance and Repairs

Over time, your chicken coop and other equipment may require maintenance or repairs. This could include replacing worn-out parts, repairing fences, or improving the overall infrastructure. The cost of this may be off-set by your own ability to tackle these things. However, if you are unsure of how to go about repairing something, you may need to allocate those tasks to a professional, which is going to cost you. Generally, you can estimate about $20-$50 per year on coop and ground maintenance.

Regulations and Permits

Before starting a backyard chicken flock, it is essential to research and comply with any local regulations or permit requirements. Some areas may have specific rules regarding the number of chickens allowed, coop placement, or noise restrictions. These permits, if required, may involve additional fees.

Heating and Lighting

If you live in a colder climate or experience long winter nights, you may need to provide supplemental heating and lighting for your chickens. As such, you should factor in the cost of purchasing and operating heat lamps, heating pads, or other heating sources. Additionally, you may need to invest in artificial lighting to ensure consistent egg production during shorter daylight hours. Consider the energy costs associated with these additional requirements.

Cleaning

Regular cleaning of the coop and replacing soiled bedding is crucial for maintaining the health of your chickens. Depending on the size of your coop and the frequency of cleaning, this expense can vary. Budgeting for bedding replacement and cleaning supplies is recommended.

Accessories

While not essential, you may choose to invest in additional accessories to enhance the comfort and well-being of your chickens. This could include items like perches, toys, dust bath materials, or automatic door openers. You could also DIY these items, saving you money.

Final Thoughts on the Cost of Owning Backyard Chickens

Overall, you are looking at spending $200-$700 per year on your small backyard flock. Meanwhile, initial start-up costs may run between $500 and $1,500, depending on the chicken breeds and coop size. Raising and owning backyard chickens can be a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor. While there are initial setup costs and ongoing expenses to consider, the benefits of fresh eggs, organic pest control, and the joy of interacting with these feathered friends often outweigh the financial investment.