Why Are Eggs So Expensive Understanding Egg Price Hikes

Eggs, once one of the most affordable staples in the American kitchen, have seen dramatic price increases over the past few years. What used to cost less than a dollar per dozen now regularly exceeds $4–$6 at many grocery stores. For households relying on eggs as a budget-friendly protein source, this surge has been both surprising and burdensome. The answer isn’t simple—it’s a convergence of biological, economic, and logistical factors that have disrupted supply while demand remains steady or even grows.

Understanding why eggs are so expensive requires looking beyond supermarket shelves. It involves examining poultry health, feed costs, labor challenges, and broader market forces. This article breaks down the key drivers behind recent egg price hikes and offers practical insight for consumers navigating this new reality.

Avian Influenza: The Primary Disruptor

The most significant factor behind soaring egg prices is the recurring outbreak of avian influenza—commonly known as bird flu. Since 2022, the U.S. has faced one of the worst bird flu epidemics in history, affecting tens of millions of laying hens across multiple states.

When an outbreak occurs, entire flocks must be culled to prevent further spread. According to the USDA, over 58 million birds were lost during the 2022–2023 outbreak alone—nearly 4% of the nation’s total poultry population. These losses directly reduce egg production capacity.

Rebuilding flocks takes time. It can take up to five months for newly hatched pullets (young hens) to mature and begin laying eggs. During this gap, supply remains constrained, driving prices upward.

“Avian flu doesn’t just kill birds—it destabilizes the entire supply chain. Recovery isn’t immediate, and prices reflect that lag.” — Dr. Margaret Kolling, Poultry Health Specialist, Cornell University

Tip: Check local farmers' markets or co-ops; smaller farms may not be affected by large-scale outbreaks and could offer better pricing.

Rising Feed and Production Costs

Even in the absence of disease, egg production is sensitive to input costs—especially feed. Chickens consume vast quantities of corn and soybean meal, which together make up nearly 70% of their diet. When global commodity prices rise, egg producers feel the impact immediately.

In recent years, extreme weather events, geopolitical conflicts (such as the war in Ukraine), and increased biofuel demand have driven grain prices higher. Between 2021 and 2023, corn prices rose over 30%, directly increasing the cost of raising hens.

Labor, transportation, and energy costs have also climbed. Modern egg facilities rely on automated systems for feeding, climate control, and egg collection—all of which require electricity and skilled maintenance. As utility rates increase, those expenses are passed on to consumers.

Cost Factor	Impact on Egg Prices	Timeframe of Influence
Avian Influenza	High – destroys flocks, reduces supply	Long-term (months to years)
Feed (Corn & Soy)	High – primary operating cost	Ongoing, fluctuates seasonally
Labor	Moderate – staffing shortages increase wages	Medium-term
Fuel/Transportation	Moderate – affects distribution costs	Short to medium-term
Packaging Materials	Low to moderate – cartons made from recycled paper	Short-term

Inflation and Market Consolidation

Beyond direct production costs, broader economic trends play a role. The U.S. experienced its highest inflation rates in decades between 2021 and 2023. Food-at-home prices rose by more than 20% during that period, with eggs among the hardest-hit categories.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, egg prices surged by over 60% in 2022 alone—the largest single-year increase in recorded history. While inflation has cooled slightly, prices have not returned to pre-pandemic levels due to structural changes in the industry.

Another often-overlooked issue is market consolidation. A small number of companies control the majority of U.S. egg production. Cal-Maine Foods, Hillandale Farms, and Rose Acre Farms collectively produce nearly half of all table eggs. With limited competition, these producers have greater pricing power, especially during supply shocks.

Consumer Behavior and Demand Shifts

Demand for eggs hasn’t decreased—in fact, it’s grown. Eggs are a nutrient-dense, low-cost protein source, making them attractive during economic uncertainty. Diets like keto and intermittent fasting have also boosted egg consumption.

Additionally, the rise of plant-based alternatives has not significantly reduced egg demand. While products like Just Egg exist, they remain more expensive and less accessible than real eggs, limiting their market share.

During holiday seasons—particularly spring and Easter—demand spikes further. Many traditional recipes call for eggs, and some families engage in egg decorating, increasing short-term pressure on already-tight supplies.

Mini Case Study: The 2023 Spring Shortage

In early 2023, many shoppers found empty shelves where eggs used to be. Despite recovery efforts from the prior year’s bird flu outbreak, new cases emerged in major egg-producing states like Iowa and Ohio. At the same time, Easter approached, and wholesale orders surged.

One Midwestern grocery chain reported a 70% increase in egg sales volume compared to the previous month. With limited inventory, stores imposed purchase limits. Retailers responded by sourcing from farther away, but transportation delays and higher fuel costs only added to the final price tag.

This scenario illustrates how seasonal demand, when combined with fragile supply chains, can amplify price volatility.

How Long Will High Egg Prices Last?

While some relief has arrived, experts caution against expecting a full return to $1-per-dozen pricing anytime soon. The industry is rebuilding, but long-term resilience remains uncertain.

Climate change increases the risk of future disease outbreaks and crop failures. Warmer temperatures can stress poultry and accelerate virus transmission. Meanwhile, feed costs are unlikely to drop significantly due to sustained global demand for grains.

Producers are investing in biosecurity measures—such as improved ventilation, restricted farm access, and rapid testing—but these upgrades come at a cost. Some smaller farms have exited the business entirely, reducing overall competition and flexibility in the market.

Step-by-Step: How Egg Prices Are Determined

1. Hatcheries raise pullets – Takes 16–20 weeks before hens start laying.
2. Flocks begin egg production – Each hen lays about 250–300 eggs per year under optimal conditions.
3. Eggs are collected, cleaned, graded, and packed – Done daily using automated systems.
4. Distribution to warehouses and retailers – Requires refrigerated transport to maintain freshness.
5. Retail pricing set based on supply, demand, and regional competition – Influenced by national trends and store policies.

Tip: Buy in bulk when prices dip, and freeze whisked eggs for later use—they last up to a year in the freezer.

Practical Tips for Consumers

While you can’t control the market, you can adapt your habits to manage rising egg costs. Here’s what works:

• Compare unit prices – Larger cartons often offer lower cost per egg.
• Consider store brands – Often sourced from the same suppliers as name brands but priced lower.
• Buy direct from farms – Many local producers sell eggs at farmers’ markets without markup.
• Freeze surplus eggs – Whisk whole eggs before freezing; avoid freezing shells.
• Use alternatives strategically – Tofu scramble or chickpea flour omelets can stretch meals.

Checklist: Reducing Egg Expenses

• ☐ Track egg prices weekly to identify low points
• ☐ Join a food co-op or buying club for group discounts
• ☐ Learn basic egg freezing techniques
• ☐ Rotate between eggs and alternative proteins
• ☐ Report price gouging to local authorities if observed

FAQ

Are organic or cage-free eggs worth the extra cost?

That depends on your values and budget. Organic and cage-free eggs typically cost more due to higher production standards and lower yields. If animal welfare or pesticide exposure is a concern, they may be worth it. However, nutritionally, there’s little difference between conventional and specialty eggs.

Will egg prices ever go back down?

Prices may stabilize somewhat as flocks recover and supply normalizes, but a full return to pre-2022 levels is unlikely. Structural cost increases in feed, labor, and logistics mean higher baseline prices. Expect fluctuations, but plan for eggs to remain more expensive than in the past.

Can I trust cheaper eggs from discount stores?

Yes. All eggs sold in the U.S. must meet federal safety and grading standards regardless of price point. Discount eggs may come from older flocks or less premium packaging, but they are safe and nutritious.

Conclusion

The high cost of eggs is not a temporary glitch—it’s a signal of deeper vulnerabilities in our food system. From disease outbreaks to climate pressures and concentrated industry control, the factors driving egg prices are complex and interwoven. While consumers can adopt strategies to mitigate the impact, lasting solutions will require investment in resilient agriculture, diversified supply chains, and transparent pricing.

As you navigate grocery lists and meal planning, remember that awareness is power. Understanding the “why” behind rising prices empowers smarter choices and informed advocacy. Share this knowledge with others, support sustainable producers when possible, and keep asking questions—because affordable, reliable food should be a given, not a luxury.

💬 Have you noticed changes in egg availability or pricing in your area? Share your experience in the comments and help build a clearer picture of this ongoing challenge.