Out of eggs? Discover the secret to a personal supply–You can get them anytime!

In the midst of a nationwide egg shortage, with prices climbing and shelves emptying, Americans are scrambling for solutions.

If you're over 60 and reminiscing about the days when fresh produce was just a backyard away, you're in luck.

The answer to your egg woes could be as simple as a trip to the backyard, thanks to a novel idea involving chickens.



The bird flu has ruffled feathers across the country, leading to a scarcity of eggs and soaring prices that hit the wallet hard.

But what if you could sidestep the grocery store chaos and secure your own steady supply of fresh eggs?

Enter Rent The Chicken, a Pennsylvania-based business that's hatching a plan to bring farm-fresh eggs right to your doorstep—or rather, your backyard.

Homestead Jenn and Phil, the co-founders of Rent The Chicken, have seen a surge in calls from customers eager to tackle their egg emergencies head-on. But it's not just about the immediate crisis; many are looking for a sustainable solution to ensure long-term food security.


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Rent The Chicken is a Pennsylvania-based business that allows consumers to rent egg-laying hens, offering a solution to egg shortages and high prices. Image source: Inside Edition / Youtube.



Imagine waking up to the gentle clucking of hens and the promise of fresh eggs for breakfast. Rent The Chicken makes this idyllic scene a reality by partnering with affiliate farmers across the US and Canada.

For a starting fee of around $500 for a six-month contract, you can have two egg-laying hens delivered to your yard, ready to lay within two days of their arrival. These hens are no slackers–they'll provide you with roughly a dozen eggs a week.

The rental package is comprehensive, including a portable coop, chicken feed, food and water dishes, and expert advice for any questions that may arise.

If you're feeling ambitious, you can opt for a larger package with four hens, doubling your egg bounty.

Also read: Warning: Egg prices could skyrocket soon! Find out why and how to save on extra expenses in 2025



And if you find that chicken-rearing isn't your cup of tea, you can 'chicken out' and return the birds early. Alternatively, if you've grown attached to your feathered friends, you can purchase them at the end of the rental period.

It's important to note that Rent The Chicken isn't a quick fix for the egg shortage. The available chickens, hatched in the fall, will be ready to lay eggs come spring.

Reservations began in October, with deliveries scheduled for April and May.

With partners in 29 states and shipping options available nationwide, it's best to reserve your hens sooner rather than later, as it takes time for chicks to mature into egg-laying adults.

Before you start dreaming of your own backyard brood, it's crucial to check your local ordinances and homeowners' association rules. While Rent The Chicken likens having a few hens to keeping a tomato plant on your porch, regulations can vary widely.



Concerns about noise and odors are common, but hens are relatively quiet compared to their crowing counterparts, the roosters. Plus, the portable coops can be moved daily to simulate free-range conditions and minimize any mess.

Tyler Kochirka of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, is a testament to the joys of chicken renting. After convincing his mom to try it out, he was hooked. Starting with two rented hens, he eventually expanded his flock to ten, purchasing the chickens at the end of his rental.


Source: Inside Edition / Youtube.​


Now, with a steady supply of eggs, Tyler and his family share their bounty with friends and coworkers, unaffected by the market's extravagant prices.

Also read: Egg limits hit stores, shoppers scramble to stock up!

Key Takeaways
  • Rent The Chicken is a Pennsylvania-based business that allows consumers to rent egg-laying hens, offering a solution to egg shortages and high prices.
  • The rental includes two hens ready to lay eggs, a portable chicken coop, feed, and access to expert advice, with options to rent more chickens or purchase them at the end of the contract.
  • Renting chickens is not an immediate solution to egg shortages, as it takes time for chicks to mature into egg-laying hens, with deliveries occurring in the spring.
  • Potential renters must check local regulations and ordinances before getting chickens and take into consideration any noise or odour concerns, though renting a small number of hens is likened to having a tomato plant on a porch.

Have you ever raised chickens, or are you considering it now? Will you considering renting chickens to have your own supply of eggs? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!
 
Rent,,, NO thank you... Getting into the "business' is easier than U think...I got a coop for "free"(I gave her $50.00) and Tractor supply has chicks in the spring... and So does Rural King... also ur local feed store...YES, U have to wait for them to lay eggs BUT ===Get off ur butt and find out. Quit whining
 
Rent,,, NO thank you... Getting into the "business' is easier than U think...I got a coop for "free"(I gave her $50.00) and Tractor supply has chicks in the spring... and So does Rural King... also ur local feed store...YES, U have to wait for them to lay eggs BUT ===Get off ur butt and find out. Quit whining
That's also a good way to get your own egg supply, @DalCee! Thank you for sharing this tip with The GrayVine. :giggle:
 

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News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

The GrayVine

The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
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