By Christian Franklin
Opinion Editor
Egg prices in the U.S. have seen an alarming increase, with the average price per dozen climbing to levels not seen in over a decade. As of January 2025, the national average for a dozen eggs has more than doubled compared to the same time last year, with some regions experiencing even steeper increases.
So, what’s driving this sharp rise? Industry insiders and economists have identified several interconnected causes for the spike, from disruptions in supply chains to natural disasters and market fluctuations. One of the most significant contributors to the rise in egg prices is the ongoing avian influenza outbreak that has affected poultry farms across the country. The deadly flu, which began in late 2022, has led to the culling of millions of hens, significantly reducing the number of eggs available on the market. With fewer hens laying eggs, the supply has been unable to keep up with demand, pushing prices up.
The impact of inflation on agricultural production has also contributed to the rising cost of eggs. As the prices of key inputs like feed and fuel climb, so too does the cost of raising hens and transporting eggs. Feed costs have been especially volatile due to disruptions in global grain markets, as well as supply shortages linked to extreme weather events like droughts and floods. Farmers who rely on affordable feed to maintain healthy flocks are now paying more for these essential supplies, and these increased costs are ultimately passed on to consumers in the form of higher egg prices.
The rising cost of eggs is a stark reminder of how fragile our food supply chains can be. From disease outbreaks to global inflationary pressures, multiple factors have collided to create a perfect storm of rising prices. While consumers are feeling the impact, the agricultural industry continues to adapt and find solutions to rebuild supply and lower costs. How quickly these solutions will work remains to be seen, but for many, the cost of eggs is likely to remain an unwelcome strain on household budgets in the near future.
Cost of a dozen eggs
January:
1980- $0.88
1990- $1.22
2000- $0.98
2010- $1.79
2020- $1.46
2021- $1.47
2022- $1.93
2023- $4.83
2024- $2.52
2025- $4.95
Prices have fluxuated over the years, but have steadily risen, like most other food. Eggs are one of the food items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to calculate inflation in the U.S.