I am an unapologetic chicken lady. You know – the one on Instagram reels (because I’m too millennial for TikTok) carrying around her chickens like babies and treating them as part of the family. That’s me, and I don’t hide from it! While I can’t help but espouse how much I love raising chickens for fun, there are plenty of practical reasons to do so.
Namely, the highway-robbery egg prices we’re experiencing right now.
As of the publishing of this article, the cost of a dozen eggs is roughly $5. Just seven years ago, families could purchase those same eggs for between $1 and $1.99. While the cost may not seem like much, it all adds up when trying to create nutritious meals on a military budget.
Why you should consider raising chickens
Raising your own free-range chickens can provide you with fresh, nutrient-dense eggs that are often higher in vitamins A, D and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, compared to store-bought eggs. And despite what you may think, you don’t need a lot of acreage to make it work.
But it’s more than just nutrition: raising chickens can impact your mental wellness, too.
Chickens can be wonderful companions, and interacting with them can help reduce stress and anxiety. One of my favorite things to do is sit on my porch and watch them chase bugs or scratch around the ground looking for goodies. Their antics always bring on laughter — we all know how beneficial that can be.
Lessons learned, lessons taught
The first time we decided to raise chickens, it was 2015. We lived in the city of St. Petersburg, Florida, and the only rule was no roosters — easy. We had a modest backyard when we acquired our baby chicks, and that was the beginning of the end. Once you start, it’s hard to go back. My son was only four years old, and not only did he enjoy raising the chicks, but it also taught him the importance of responsibility by engaging in the care for them.
We explained the importance of their diet, fresh water and keeping their home clean. He was a willing helper in raising them from chicks to hens and loved their fresh eggs every morning for breakfast.
When we got orders to New Jersey and had to part with them, I was devastated. Though I did my best to implore the Coast Guard base housing to allow them, they weren’t having it. It wasn’t until 2022 when we were able to dive back into raising chickens.
This time, we had the space to increase how many we raised. My daughter had come along since the last time we had chickens, and she was four years old. It was such a beautiful experience watching my son teach her what he learned at her age.
Store bought vs. home grown
There are those who will say it’s more costly to have your own chickens than simply purchasing eggs at the store. Here’s why I think that perspective is flawed:
- Yes, you have to make a healthy investment initially when you begin raising chickens. The coop, even if built by you, will cost a few hundred dollars or more depending on how many chickens you plan to have. Ours was American made and cost us about $900 but can hold up to 15 chickens. Though we have plenty of space, we wanted a secure chicken run for their food given that we have predators in the area. That was another $300 to build ourselves.
- Once they’re laying eggs, they will be the best eggs you’ve ever had. When we had to buy organic eggs from the store this winter, my teenage son commented on the difference in yolk color and creaminess he tasted. Your investment will give you a more nutritious result than anything bought (unless you’re buying straight from a farm).
- My chickens free range all day long and enjoy a variety of bugs and greens. I love to buy them dried worms as treats to enjoy but also so I can watch them go crazy. Chickens can eat table scraps, which reduces waste and garbage heading to the landfill, reduces the cost of chicken layer feed and helps the environment. We have eight hens, and they produce an egg a day (outside of winter). We sell the surplus for $4 a dozen, which pays for their layer feed each month.
One thing leads to another
Today I have a half-blind turkey and two 4H pigs to go along with those hens. Our family chose to fully embrace country living with a large garden, growing our own fruits and vegetables. In just a few months, we’ll be adding goats and sheep to our family farm.
Yes, I’m also a crazy sourdough lady, and I am constantly looking for ways to make our own ingredients to avoid processed foods. My husband makes our vanilla extract, and we’ve dabbled in pickling. One of those 4H pigs will supply our pork for the year and we’re in heavy negotiations regarding a beef cow. Stay tuned!
Long term, raising chickens will pay for itself. Your eggs will be high quality, nutritious and pay back the costs you incurred while getting started. You’ll also be smiling and spending time outside, boosting those happy hormones.
But beware: raising chickens is definitely a gateway to going from city to country living.
