Have you noticed that eggs are more expensive lately?
Whether it’s in the grocery store or fresh from the farm, you can’t deny the increasing price of eggs.
And as much as we would like to lessen our egg consumption, this staple food has become a big part of the majority’s diet.
Talk about having breakfast without eggs–what a nightmare!
So, why is this happening? Why is there a continuous increase of egg prices in the U.S.?
Why has it reached to the expensive price it is now and why did it happen so quickly?
Is there a possibility that egg prices could still go down?
In this article, we have compiled the answers to these questions from experts.
Let’s explore why the egg price increase in the U.S. is happening, how it affects us, and what might happen next.
Why Are Egg Prices Going Up?
The egg price increase in the U.S. is caused by several factors. Let’s take a closer look at what’s making eggs more expensive.
1. Bird Flu Outbreak
One of the biggest reasons for the egg price increase in the U.S. is the avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak.
This virus spreads quickly among birds, and when a farm detects bird flu, they must cull (kill) all infected chickens to stop it from spreading.
According to the USDA, the bird flu has killed over 13.2 million egg-laying commercial hens in December. This has depopulated the flock and dented the supply for 2025.
- In 2022 and 2023, millions of egg-laying hens were lost due to bird flu. It has not fully recovered ever since.
- Fewer hens mean fewer eggs, causing prices to skyrocket due to limited supply.
- Even though farmers are working to replace lost flocks, it takes months for new hens to start laying eggs.
2. Higher Production Costs
It costs more to raise chickens and produce eggs than before. Farmers are spending more on:
- Chicken Feed: The price of corn and soybeans, which are key ingredients in chicken feed, has increased.
- Labor Costs: Farmworkers’ wages have gone up, making egg production more expensive.
- Transportation Costs: Gasoline and diesel fuel prices have risen, making it more expensive to transport eggs from farms to stores.
- Packaging Costs: Even the cost of cartons and egg boxes has increased, adding to the overall price.
Since farmers must cover these higher expenses, they raise the price of eggs, which consumers see at the grocery store.
3. Increased Demand for Eggs
Eggs are a staple food in many households because they are affordable compared to other protein sources like meat.
However, during inflation or food shortages, more people buy and stock up on eggs, which increases demand.
- The holiday season (Thanksgiving and Christmas) leads to a spike in egg consumption for baking and cooking.
- Many health-conscious consumers prefer high-protein foods like eggs, further increasing demand.
- When demand goes up and supply stays the same (or decreases due to bird flu), prices rise.
4. Market and Inflation Impact
Inflation affects almost every industry, including food production. When the general cost of goods goes up, egg prices also increase.
- Grocery stores and suppliers raise prices to keep up with inflation.
- The cost of farming equipment, barn maintenance, and utilities has also gone up, making egg production more expensive.
- Unpredictable weather conditions (droughts, heat waves) can affect grain production, raising feed costs and impacting egg prices.
The combination of bird flu, rising production costs, increased demand, and inflation has led to a significant egg price increase in the U.S.
Understanding these factors helps us see why eggs have become more expensive at the grocery store.
How Much Have Egg Prices Increased?
In December 2024, the average price for a dozen large, grade-A eggs was $4.15, up from $3.65 in November. This is a significant egg price increase in the U.S. compared to previous years.
Experts report that the price of eggs has reached its all-time high this year, and it’s unlikely to go down.
ALSO READ: Egg Price Spike With Avian Flu Affecting 27 States
Egg Price Increase: Impact on Consumers
The egg price increase in the U.S. affects everyday consumers in several ways, making a common grocery staple more costly and forcing people to rethink their food budgets.
Here’s how rising egg prices are impacting households, businesses, and the overall economy:
1. Higher Grocery Bills
Eggs have long been considered an affordable source of protein, but with prices nearly doubling in some areas, families are feeling the strain.
Households that rely on eggs for breakfast, baking, and cooking now have to spend more or find alternative ingredients.
For those on tight budgets, the higher cost of eggs means cutting back on other grocery items or purchasing fewer eggs per trip.
2. Restaurant Menu Changes
Restaurants, bakeries, and food businesses that use eggs in their recipes are paying more for their ingredients.
Many eateries increase menu prices to make up for the higher cost of eggs, meaning customers pay more for egg-based dishes like omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods.
Some restaurants may even reduce portion sizes or find alternatives to keep costs manageable.
3. Increased Baking and Cooking Costs
Home bakers and small bakeries are particularly affected because eggs are essential in cakes, bread, and pastries.
The higher cost of eggs can make homemade goods more expensive, forcing bakers to raise prices or adjust recipes to use fewer eggs.
This can be frustrating for families who love to bake or for small business owners trying to keep their products affordable.
4. Possible Egg Shortages
In some areas, the demand for eggs is so high that stores struggle to keep shelves stocked.
Consumers may notice that grocery stores limit the number of cartons a customer can buy.
Supply chain disruptions and transportation delays can also make eggs harder to find, especially during peak seasons like the holidays.
5. Impact on Other Food Prices
Since eggs are used in many processed and packaged foods, their rising cost affects other grocery items as well.
Products like mayonnaise, pasta, and baked goods may become more expensive due to the higher cost of eggs used in production.
Consumers might see price increases across multiple food categories, making it even harder to stay within budget.
With these challenges, many people are looking for ways to manage their spending and adjust to the rising cost of eggs.
Future Projections on Egg Price Hike
Experts predict that egg prices may continue to rise. The U.S. Department of Agriculture forecasts an additional 20.3% increase in 2025.
What Can Consumers Do?
Even though egg prices are rising, there are several strategies consumers can use to save money and still enjoy eggs in their diet. Here are some practical tips:
1. Look for Sales and Discounts
Many grocery stores offer weekly promotions or discounts on eggs, especially for loyalty card members.
Checking different supermarkets or local farm markets can help consumers find the best deals.
Buying eggs when they’re on sale and storing them properly can help stretch a grocery budget.
2. Buy in Bulk
If possible, consider purchasing eggs in larger quantities at wholesale stores like Costco or Sam’s Club.
Bulk purchases usually come at a lower price per dozen, helping families save in the long run.
Freezing eggs for later use is also an option—crack eggs into ice cube trays, beat them slightly, and freeze for future cooking or baking.
ALSO READ: Can You Freeze Eggs? How to Safely Do It
3. Try Egg Substitutes
In baking and cooking, some recipes can use egg substitutes such as:
- Mashed bananas or applesauce (for baking).
- Flaxseed meal mixed with water (as an egg replacer in some recipes).
- Commercial egg substitutes like Just Egg for plant-based diets.
Using substitutes occasionally can help reduce overall egg consumption and save money.
4. Support Local Farmers
Buying eggs from local farms or farmers’ markets may be cheaper than purchasing from big grocery stores.
Local farms often offer fresh, organic, and free-range eggs at competitive prices. Supporting small-scale farmers also helps strengthen local food systems.
5. Consider Raising Backyard Chickens
One long-term solution is raising backyard chickens, which provides a steady supply of fresh eggs at home.
Although there’s an initial cost for setting up a coop, feeding chickens is often more affordable than continually buying eggs.
Many cities and suburban areas allow small flocks, making this a great option for families who have the space.
ALSO READ: How to Build a Chicken Coop (The Complete Step by Step Guide)
6. Be Mindful of Egg Waste
Making eggs last longer by properly storing them in the fridge (in their original carton) can prevent waste.
Try using every part of the egg—for example, using egg whites for certain recipes and yolks for others instead of throwing any part away.
Planning meals that make the most out of a carton of eggs helps avoid unnecessary purchases.
By following these strategies, consumers can better manage their grocery budgets, still enjoy eggs, and adjust to the egg price increase in the U.S. without too much financial strain.
How Raising Chickens is the Solution
With the egg price increase in the U.S., many people are looking for ways to save money on eggs.
One of the best solutions is raising backyard chickens. Here’s why:
1. A Steady Supply of Fresh Eggs
When you have your own chickens, you don’t have to worry about grocery store prices.
Chickens lay eggs regularly, so you’ll always have a fresh supply at home.
2. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
The initial cost of setting up a chicken coop and buying chickens might seem expensive, but over time, it saves money.
Instead of paying high grocery store prices, you get free-range, organic eggs straight from your backyard.
ALSO READ: 18 Ways on How To Save Money When Keeping Chickens
3. Healthier and Better-Tasting Eggs
Store-bought eggs come from large commercial farms where chickens may not get the best nutrition.
Backyard chickens eat a balanced diet, leading to richer, tastier, and more nutritious eggs.
4. Less Dependence on Grocery Stores
If egg prices keep rising, having chickens means you won’t have to rely on store-bought eggs.
You become more self-sufficient, which is great for families looking to cut food costs.
5. A Fun and Educational Experience
Raising chickens is not only practical but also fun!
Kids and adults can learn about animal care, responsibility, and sustainable living.
ALSO READ: 10 Best Chicken Breeds for Kids
6. Extra Benefits: Fertilizer and Pest Control
- Chickens naturally produce fertilizer for gardens.
- They also eat insects, helping control pests in your yard.
By raising backyard chickens, you can fight against the egg price increase in the U.S. and enjoy fresh, healthy eggs at home. It’s a smart and sustainable solution!
ALSO READ: Beginner’s Guide to Raising Backyard Chickens
Why Egg Prices Are Rising: In a Nutshell
The egg price increase in the U.S. has made a basic grocery item much more expensive for families.
Factors like bird flu outbreaks, rising production costs, increased demand, and inflation have all contributed to higher egg prices.
While farmers are working to rebuild their flocks and stabilize supply, prices may continue to fluctuate in the near future.
For consumers, adjusting shopping habits—such as buying in bulk, looking for sales, or considering egg substitutes—can help save money.
Another great solution is raising backyard chickens, which provides a fresh and steady supply of eggs while reducing dependence on grocery stores.
While egg prices may not drop overnight, understanding the causes behind the increase helps us make informed choices.
Whether you choose to buy smarter or start your own flock, there are ways to navigate this challenge and still enjoy this nutritious kitchen staple.