The cost to raise 100 chickens typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, including feed, housing, and healthcare expenses.
Raising 100 chickens costs $1,500–$3,000 per year for feed, bedding, and essentials. Prices vary based on breed, feed type, and climate. This guide covers all expenses to help you budget effectively.
Annual Costs for 100 Chickens
Here’s a detailed breakdown of yearly expenses:
| Item | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Feed | $1,200–$2,400 | 17-20% protein layer/meat feed |
| Bedding | $200–$500 | Pine shavings, straw, or hemp |
| Supplements | $100–$300 | Grit, calcium, probiotics |
| Healthcare | $50–$200 | Vaccines, dewormers, first aid |
| Total | $1,550–$3,400 | Varies by region and management |
Feed Costs Explained
Chickens eat 0.25–0.5 lbs of feed daily. For 100 birds:
- Standard feed: $15–$20 per 50lb bag (4-5 bags weekly)
- Organic feed: $30–$40 per 50lb bag (doubles costs)
- Winter impact: 20-30% more feed when foraging is limited
Free-ranging cuts feed costs by 15-25% in warm months. Learn alternative feeding methods to reduce expenses.
One-Time Setup Costs
Coop Requirements
A coop for 100 chickens needs:
- Space: 100-200 sq ft (1-2 sq ft per bird)
- Construction: $800–$2,000 for materials
- Predator-proofing: $200–$500 for hardware cloth
See our guide on coop sizing scaled for larger flocks.
Brooder Essentials
For chicks 0-8 weeks:
- Heat lamps ($30)
- Waterers/feeders ($50)
- Thermometer ($15)
Monthly Expense Breakdown
Sample Budget
- Feed: $160–$200
- Bedding: $20–$40
- Supplements: $10–$25
- Miscellaneous: $15–$50
Seasonal Variations
Winter adds costs for:
- Extra feed (less foraging)
- Heated waterers ($50 each)
- Coop insulation materials
Money-Saving Tips
Feed Reduction Strategies
- Ferment feed to improve digestibility
- Grow fodder (barley, wheatgrass)
- Supplement with kitchen scraps
Alternative Bedding Options
- Shredded leaves (free in fall)
- Sand systems (reusable)
- Hemp bedding (lasts longer)
For free-ranging flocks, read about keeping chickens contained safely.
Profit Potential
Egg Production
100 laying hens produce:
- 70-90 eggs daily (peak season)
- 25,000 eggs annually
- $5,000–$12,500 revenue at $2–$5/dozen
Meat Birds
Cornish Cross chickens:
- Ready in 8-10 weeks
- Dress weight: 4-6 lbs
- Potential profit: $10–$15 per bird
External Resources
For feed calculations, use the Poultry Extension feed guide. The Backyard Chickens cost calculator helps estimate expenses.
Key Considerations
Breed Differences
- Bantams: Eat 1/3 less than standard breeds
- Dual-purpose: Slower growth but better foragers
- Meat birds: Require high-protein feed (20-22%)
Regional Price Variations
Feed costs fluctuate by:
- Local grain availability
- Transportation costs
- Seasonal crop yields
Always source feed locally when possible to reduce costs. Bulk purchases (ton bags) can save 15-30% over bagged feed.