Production
The flock math, real costs and sales condition that decide profitability
A six-hen backyard flock can produce over 1,000 eggs a year, but a 70–100-hen farm may face a true cost of about $12 per dozen once labor is included.
Commercial layers such as ISA Brown or Hy-Line Brown can lay 280–310 eggs annually for 12–18 months. Rhode Island Red and Sussex lay fewer, often larger eggs.
For planning, estimate 260 eggs per hen yearly and about $6 per dozen in direct sales. Feed averages $0.12 per hen daily; labor must be counted separately.
Costs vary by scale: a DIY mobile tractor for 25–50 hens may cost $300–$800, while a small fixed coop for 25–100 hens can run $1,500–$6,000.
Farm-gate sales may bring $4–$7 per dozen, while farmers markets can bring $5–$8 for premium free-range eggs. Markets also require permits, insurance and time.
Producers with fewer than 3,000 hens selling directly to consumers are exempt from USDA inspection and grading requirements, but state rules can still vary widely.
At 25–50 hens, care may take 30–45 minutes daily. At 100–250 hens, allow 1–1.5 hours daily plus market time, with possible licensing and more automation.
Feed accounts for 60–70% of operating costs. Conventional feed may cost $0.10–$0.12 per hen daily; organic feed can cost $0.25–$0.35, especially in small bags.
For 100 hens producing 180 dozen monthly, wholesale at $2.50 brings $450 gross, leaving $100 after $350 in feed and supplies—before labor. Premium direct prices are crucial.
Before buying hens or building, test farmers markets, contact CSA groups and find farm-gate customers. Model costs against the price people will actually pay for your eggs.
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