US households with backyard chickens have surged to 11 million, making chickens the third most popular pet in the country. This trend is driven by growing concerns about food security and a desire for sustainable living.
Co-owners of Rent The Chicken, Jenn Tompkins, report taking reservations for rentals starting in April or May. While keeping two backyard chickens may not be cost-effective, owning them can bring joy and emotional benefits.
Tompkins notes that many consumers want to know the origin of their food and are turning to backyard chickens as a way to take control of their diet. However, setting up a coop and caring for hens comes with significant upfront costs, including $500 for a decent coop and fencing, plus $20 monthly for food and upkeep.
The benefits of owning backyard chickens, however, go beyond the financial aspect. Many owners report emotional rewards from watching their hens roam and interact with them. Tompkins notes that Rent The Chicken’s customers enjoy “Chicken TV” – a term coined to describe the entertainment value of watching hens engage in activities like high-jumping.
As for concerns about bird flu, the company has strict biosecurity measures in place. Tompkins advises renters to take precautions such as wearing special shoes and washing hands after interacting with chickens.
While regulations on backyard chickens vary by municipality, owning them can be a rewarding experience for those willing to invest time and resources. With 48-84 eggs produced over six months, the ROI of owning backyard chickens may not be immediate but can be significant in the long run.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/02/15/egg-shortage-price-backyard-chickens