How Much Does It Cost to Keep Chickens in the UK?
Keeping hens is cheaper than many people expect — but it isn’t free. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what it costs to keep chickens in the UK, from setting up to week-to-week running costs.
Set-up costs
| Item | Budget | Mid-range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coop and run | £100–£200 | £200–£400 | £600–£1,000+ |
| Hens (3 point-of-lay hybrids) | £45–£90 | £60–£90 | £90+ |
| Feeder and drinker | £20 | £60–£100 | £150+ |
| Automatic door | — | £50–£70 | £150–£200 |
| Bedding, feed and grit to start | £30 | £40 | £50 |
Typical ranges based on prices on Amazon UK and from poultry suppliers in October 2026. Rescue hens are often rehomed for a small donation.
Ongoing costs
- Feed: a hen eats roughly 120–150g of layers’ pellets a day. A 20kg sack typically lasts three hens around six weeks.
- Bedding: a bag or bale every few weeks.
- Health: red mite treatment, wormer and occasional vet bills.
- Extras: grit, mixed corn treats and replacement equipment.
For most small flocks, ongoing costs work out at a few pounds per hen per month — plus any vet bills.
Will I save money on eggs?
Honestly, probably not compared with supermarket eggs — especially in the first year. But you get fresher eggs, rich compost, natural pest control in the garden and a lot of enjoyment.
How to keep costs down
- Buy feed in larger sacks and store it in a rat-proof metal bin.
- Use a rat-proof feeder so you’re not feeding wildlife.
- Rehome ex-commercial hens.
- Choose a coop that’s easy to clean and maintain, so it lasts longer.
Getting started? Read our beginner’s guide to keeping chickens.
