Are backyard chickens actually worth it?

In partnership with

I get asked this question more than almost anything else.

“Are chickens actually worth it?”

Not “are they fun”
Not “are they cute”
But worth it

And the honest answer is this. It depends. But probably not in the way you think.

So today I want to walk through the real pros and cons of backyard chickens, without sugarcoating it either way.

A big 2026 starts now

Most people treat this stretch of the year as dead time. But builders like you know it’s actually prime time. And with beehiiv powering your content, world domination is truly in sight.

On beehiiv, you can launch your website in minutes with the AI Web Builder, publish a professional newsletter with ease, and even tap into huge earnings with the beehiiv Ad Network. It’s everything you need to create, grow, and monetize in one place.

In fact, we’re so hyped about what you’ll create, we’re giving you 30% off your first three months with code BIG30. So forget about taking a break. It’s time for a break-through.

Start building for 30% off today.

Let’s Start With the Good Stuff

Fresh eggs are hard to beat. Once you’ve eaten eggs from healthy chickens, it’s tough to go back. The yolks are darker, the flavor is better, and you actually know where your food came from.

Chickens also teach consistency. They need water, feed, and basic care every single day. That routine can be grounding in a good way.

And for a lot of people, chickens are their first real step into homesteading. They make food feel personal again.

Now the Part People Skip Over

Chickens are not free eggs.

Between feed, bedding, fencing, and time, eggs cost more than most folks expect. Especially in the first year.

Predators are another reality. You can do everything right and still lose birds. It’s frustrating, and it happens to everyone eventually.

Then there’s the daily commitment. Chickens don’t care if you’re busy, sick, or tired. They still need care.

If you go into chickens thinking they’re low effort, you’ll burn out fast.

The Question You Should Ask Instead

Instead of asking “are chickens worth it,” ask this:

Do I want eggs, or do I want chickens?

If you just want cheap eggs, buy eggs.

If you want responsibility, routine, better food, and a connection to what you eat, chickens start to make a lot more sense.

They’re not an investment. They’re a lifestyle choice.

When Chickens Are Absolutely Worth It

Chickens are worth it if:

• you enjoy daily routines

• you like problem solving

• you want better food, not cheaper food

• you’re willing to learn as you go

They’re worth it when your setup works with your life instead of fighting it.

When They’re Probably Not

Chickens might not be worth it if:

• you travel constantly

• you already feel overwhelmed

• you don’t want daily chores

• you expect them to save money

There’s no shame in that. Knowing what season you’re in matters.

My Honest Take

I don’t regret chickens for a second.

But I also don’t think everyone should have them.

Backyard chickens are incredible teachers. They just demand honesty from the person raising them.

If you’re willing to meet them halfway, they give a lot back.

If you’re raising chickens right now, reply back and tell me what surprised you the most. If you’re still on the fence, tell me what’s holding you back.

Those replies help shape what I write next.

– Tim Parker
Start My Homestead