How Many Eggs Will 6 Chickens Lay? The Complete Guide

Six chickens can lay approximately 30 to 36 eggs per week, assuming each hen lays about 5 to 6 eggs weekly.

If you’re raising backyard chickens, knowing how many eggs to expect from your flock is essential. Six chickens will typically lay around 30 eggs per week during peak season – but many factors influence this number. This guide explains exactly what to expect from your six-hen flock.

Chickens laying eggs in a sunny backyard setting

Egg Production Basics for 6 Chickens

On average, a healthy hen lays 5-6 eggs per week during her prime laying period. This means:

  • 6 chickens x 5 eggs/week = 30 eggs weekly
  • 6 chickens x 6 eggs/week = 36 eggs weekly

However, egg production varies significantly based on breed, age, season, and care conditions. Rhode Island Reds and other prolific layers may exceed these numbers, while ornamental breeds often lay less.

Factors Affecting Egg Production

1. Breed Differences

Breed Eggs/Year Eggs/Week (6 hens)
Leghorn 280-320 32-37
Rhode Island Red 250-300 29-35
Plymouth Rock 200-280 23-32
Silkie 100-120 12-14

2. Seasonal Variations

Chickens lay best when days are long. Expect:

  • Spring/Summer: 5-6 eggs/hen/week
  • Fall: 4-5 eggs/hen/week
  • Winter: 2-3 eggs/hen/week (without supplemental light)

3. Age Impact

Productivity declines each year:

  1. Year 1: 100% production
  2. Year 2: 80% production
  3. Year 3: 65% production
  4. Year 4+: 50% or less
Six chickens produce many eggs daily

Optimizing Egg Production

To maximize your six-hen flock’s output:

1. Proper Nutrition

Feed a balanced layer ration with 16-18% protein. According to Purina Mills, calcium is especially crucial for strong eggshells.

2. Stress Reduction

Keep predators away and maintain a calm environment. Prevent pecking order issues by providing adequate space.

3. Light Management

Provide 14-16 hours of light daily in winter to maintain production. Use timers for consistency.

Real-World Expectations

From our experience with six-hen flocks:

  • Spring peak: 30-36 eggs/week
  • Summer average: 28-32 eggs/week
  • Winter low (no lights): 12-18 eggs/week

As noted by The Happy Chicken Coop, backyard chickens often lay fewer eggs than commercial operations due to more natural conditions.

Space Requirements for 6 Chickens

Proper housing supports consistent laying:

  • Coop: 24 sq ft minimum (4 sq ft/hen)
  • Run: 48 sq ft minimum (8 sq ft/hen)
  • Nesting boxes: 2 boxes for 6 hens

For more on introducing chickens to their home, see our guide on introducing chickens to a new coop.