US egg prices have skyrocketed due to a wave of avian flu that began in early 2022. The virus has led to the culling of millions of hens, reducing supply and causing prices to rise. As of January 10, wholesale eggs average $8.04 in California and $6.25 in New York.
The main factor behind the surge is the ongoing avian flu outbreak. Since its start, over 100 million chickens have been affected. This is the second time egg prices have risen since 2022, following a previous wave of avian flu that caused supply shortages in 2022.
While prices are expected to ease by late 2024 and early 2025, they will likely remain above pre-outbreak levels until 2025. However, further outbreaks or disruptions could push prices higher again.
The US Department of Agriculture does not forecast national wholesale prices, but estimates New York’s average price will drop from $8.04 to $2.35 per dozen by the end of 2025.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/14/why-eggs-are-so-expensive-when-prices-will-drop.html