How much does a chicken cost to raise?

To answer simply, the maximum cost to raise chickens in your backyard will be about $69/month, for a flock of 5 hens, kept for 5 years. This includes the birds, feed, bedding, a brand-new high-quality coop, and miscellaneous costs like medicine, pest control, and feeders and waterers.

How much does it cost to raise broiler chickens?

Average Price Per Pound: $2.70/lb. Cost of Local, Ranged Broiler: $3.49/lb.

Is raising chicken worth it?

If you spend $7 weekly for a dozen farmers market eggs, then yes, raising chickens probably will save you money, says Sarah Cook, founder of Sustainable Cooks. Cook estimates that it costs her $3.50 per dozen eggs to feed and care for her admittedly “spoiled” chickens.

Can I raise my own chicken?

Chickens are most productive in the first two years of their lives; after that, egg production will slow, so you’ll need to think about replacing your flock with younger birds eventually. Young chicks can be bought from suppliers quite easily, or you can hatch your own if you have a rooster (which we do NOT recommend).

How do you buy a live chicken?

Where to Buy Chickens

1. Mail Order Chickens. The easiest way to get the chicken breeds that you want most is to mail order.
2. Buying Chickens from Local Farms.
3. Shelters for Chickens.
4. Check Craigslist to Buy Chickens.
5. Farm Stores.
6. Check Reviews.
7. Nostrils.
8. Eyes.

How much do live meat chickens sell for?

TOTAL COST: $3.52 per pound for Organic, NON-GMO Chicken.

Is it cheaper to butcher your own chicken?

Whole chickens are dollars cheaper per pound than the plastic trays of bundled chicken parts, and only slightly more expensive per pound than chicken backs and offal. While food costs are always important to keep in mind, the main benefit to buying whole chickens and cutting them up isn’t the savings.

How many chickens should you start with?

Chickens are extremely flock-oriented, so a good starter flock size is no fewer than three chickens. You should collect about a dozen eggs from three laying hens. A flock of five or six hens is a good choice for slightly larger families.

What to know before buying chickens?

chickens are a serious commitment.

• Buy from a reputable breeder or hatchery, not an auction or swap if at all possible.
• A hen does not necessarily lay an egg every day.
• Do it right the first time and don’t cut corners.
• Coop placement is important.
• Don’t plan on just getting a few… it’s an addiction.