Broiler chickens typically sell for $1.50 to $3.00 per pound, depending on market conditions, location, and whether they are sold live or processed.
Broiler chickens typically sell for $3-$5 per pound when processed, with live birds fetching slightly less. Prices vary based on breed, weight, and whether you’re selling directly to consumers or through commercial channels. This guide covers everything from pricing factors to profit calculations.
Current Broiler Chicken Market Prices
As of 2023, broiler chicken prices fluctuate based on several market factors:
| Product Type | Price Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Live weight | $1.50-$3.00/lb | $2.25/lb |
| Processed whole | $3.00-$5.00/lb | $4.00/lb |
| Organic/pasture-raised | $5.00-$7.00/lb | $6.00/lb |
Factors Affecting Broiler Prices
- Breed: Cornish Cross (6-8 weeks) vs Freedom Ranger (11-12 weeks)
- Feed costs: Organic feed adds $0.50-$1.00/lb to final price
- Processing method: Home processing vs commercial facility
- Market demand: Local restaurants pay premium for pasture-raised
Cost Breakdown for Raising Broilers
Understanding your costs is essential before selling chickens. A typical 4.7 lb broiler costs $13.70 to raise:
Variable Costs Per Bird
- Chicks: $2.15 each
- Feed (19.2 lbs @ $0.42/lb): $8.06
- Processing: $3.50
Fixed Costs (One-Time Investments)
- Brooders and heat lamps
- Chicken tractors or mobile coops
- Processing equipment (scalder, plucker)
For those considering raising chickens, learn about proper coop sizing to maximize your space.
Maximizing Profit From Broiler Sales
Premium Pricing Strategies
Consumers pay more for:
- Organic certification (adds 30-50% value)
- Pasture-raised claims (verified by photos/videos)
- Specialty breeds like Freedom Rangers
Direct-to-Consumer vs Wholesale
Farmers markets yield $5-7/lb while restaurant sales average $3-4/lb but in bulk quantities. Consider a mix of both channels.
Processing Options and Costs
Your processing method significantly impacts final profit:
| Method | Cost Per Bird | Time Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Home processing | $3.50 | 5-10 minutes per bird |
| Mobile processor | $4.50-$6.00 | Drop-off service |
| USDA facility | $8.00+ | Required for retail sales |
For those new to chicken care, our guide on feeding broiler chickens covers optimal nutrition strategies.
Seasonal Price Variations
Broiler prices follow predictable seasonal patterns:
- Spring: Higher demand, premium prices
- Summer: Increased supply, competitive pricing
- Fall: Best time for bulk sales to restaurants
- Winter: Limited availability commands highest prices
Marketing Your Broiler Chickens
Effective strategies to command top dollar:
Product Differentiation
- Emphasize pasture rotation practices
- Highlight non-GMO or organic feed
- Offer unique packaging (vacuum sealed vs shrink wrap)
Sales Channels
- Farmers markets (highest margins)
- CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares
- Local grocery co-ops
- Online sales with local pickup
According to From Scratch Farmstead, proper breed selection and feed management can make or break your profit margins.
Legal Considerations for Selling
Regulations vary by state but generally:
- Under 1,000 birds annually often exempt from USDA inspection
- 20,000 bird limit for small producer exemption
- Labeling requirements for “organic” or “pasture-raised”
The USDA Poultry Labeling Guide provides complete requirements for commercial sales.