Is Renting Chickens the Secret to Fresh Eggs During the Shortage? A Look at This Growing Trend

It seems like every store you visit these days, eggs are either outrageously expensive or completely out of stock. Some people have gotten creative with egg substitutes in their recipes, while others have turned to more unconventional strategies, like renting chickens. Yes, you read that right! Keep scrolling to find out how chicken rentals work and whether they could be your egg shortage solution.

Are people really renting chickens? Here’s how it works 

Last month, the average price of a dozen eggs surged to nearly $5, marking a 53 percent increase compared to the same time last year. The USDA has warned that prices could rise an additional 41 percent.

With costs continuing to climb, you might be looking for a more sustainable solution. Whether you’re tired of getting creative with egg replacements or simply can’t imagine your morning routine without a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg, renting a chicken might be the answer.

So, how can you make it happen? Programs like Rent the Chicken partner with local farmers across the U.S. to deliver the farm experience directly to your doorstep. 

Rentals are available to start at any time of year and last five to six months. A typical chicken package rental includes a portable chicken coop, two to four egg-laying hens and all necessary supplies, such as feed and dishes. 

Within two days of arrival, your chickens will start laying fresh eggs, producing up to two dozen eggs per week.

If you’d like to keep your chickens at the end of your rental period, you can adopt them and purchase their coop at the standard prices listed on Rent the Chicken’s website.

Will renting chickens save you money?

It turns out that hosting your own chickens might be more of a solution to the egg shortage itself, rather than just combating the steep prices of eggs in stores.

Renting backyard chickens might not immediately save you money on eggs, as a standard rental with two chickens costs $495 for six months and four chickens run $959. 

However, programs like Rent the Chicken offer a unique experience. While you’ll still be paying for eggs, you’ll enjoy fresh ones daily and the experience of caring for chickens can be rewarding for the whole family—kids and adults alike. 

It’s a fun and educational way to tackle the egg shortage at home.

Understanding the egg shortage and its impact

The ongoing egg shortage continues to drive prices up, making this kitchen staple increasingly unaffordable for many Americans.

A key factor in the price surge is avian influenza, or bird flu, which led to the deaths of nearly 33 million egg-laying chickens in 2024. 

A particularly devastating outbreak in October resulted in the loss of 2.8 million birds across Utah, Washington and Oregon. 

In addition to the bird flu, supermarkets are also contributing to the rising prices. A 2023 report revealed that major retailers, including Kroger, raised prices on milk and eggs beyond what inflation could account for.