Backyard Chicken Coop Cost Calculator
Chicken coop costs vary widely based on flock size, materials, and how much predator protection you build in. Enter your flock size and preferences below to get a realistic total budget for materials, run fencing, and extras.
About this calculator
Estimate the total cost of building or buying a backyard chicken coop based on flock size, materials, and add-ons like runs and predator-proofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much coop space does each chicken need?
A general rule is 2-4 square feet of coop space per bird, plus 8-10 square feet of outdoor run space per bird for a happy, healthy flock.
Is it cheaper to build a coop or buy a kit?
Building from scratch is often 20-40% cheaper than a pre-fab kit, especially for larger flocks, but kits save significant time and require less carpentry skill.
What predator-proofing features are worth the extra cost?
Buried hardware cloth skirting, secure locking latches, and a hardware cloth roof over the run are the most valuable additions since they stop digging and climbing predators.