In response to skyrocketing egg prices and rationing in American supermarkets, residents are turning to poultry rental services to secure their egg supply.

Yong-mi Kim of La Crescenta, California, recently opted to rent chickens through the service "Rent the Chicken," which delivers hens and equipment directly to households.

Kim, who received her two hens on April 21, 2025, expressed a desire to test the waters of chicken ownership before committing fully.

The trend towards chicken rental gained momentum following recent outbreaks of avian influenza that resulted in the culling of entire flocks, significantly driving up egg costs.

At the peak of the crisis, Americans faced prices exceeding $10 for a dozen eggs, approximately three times the usual cost.

In light of this situation, supermarkets were compelled to implement purchase limits on egg cartons.

Victoria Lee, a local provider of the service from her farm in Agua Dulce, noted a significant increase in interest, with demand reportedly rising three to four times compared to the previous year.

The phenomenon, dubbed "eggflation," has become a prominent symbol of the rising cost of living, influencing discussions throughout the recent presidential campaign.

Despite a commitment from political figures like Donald Trump to address food price inflation, the average price of eggs remains about 60% higher than the same time last year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

While renting chickens may not necessarily be less expensive than purchasing eggs from stores, it offers a higher quality of product, as Lee points out that store-bought eggs are typically 48 to 60 days old by the time they reach consumers.

The rental service provides a range of packages, costing between $500 to $1,000 for a six-month period, depending on the number of chickens and location.

These packages include hens, feed, watering and feeding devices, guidance for care, and a high-quality portable coop.

This coop, designed as a mini-house on wheels, enables renters to relocate the henhouse daily, allowing chickens to access fresh grass and forage for insects while being protected from predators.

While Kim appreciates the practical benefits of the service, including receiving a dozen free eggs during delivery, she also envisions broader educational opportunities for her family.

With the potential to produce up to 14 eggs per week, her rental experience may serve not only as a temporary solution during the crisis but also as a learning tool for her children about food sources and sustainability.