Photo Credits: CDC
Egg prices across the U.S. have surged to record highs, leaving consumers frustrated and forcing retailers to impose purchase limits.
The primary reason behind this price spike is the ongoing outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu.
This highly contagious virus has devastated the poultry industry, leading to the culling of millions of egg-laying hens and causing a severe shortage in supply.
Bird flu spreads rapidly among poultry through direct contact, contaminated water, and even through the air in densely populated farms. This year’s outbreak has been particularly devastating, forcing farmers to euthanize infected and exposed birds to prevent further spread.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that over 60 million birds have been affected by the current wave of infections, significantly reducing the number of hens available to lay eggs. With production down and demand remaining high, prices have continued to climb at an alarming rate.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of a dozen large Grade A eggs reached $4.95 in January 2025, up from $4.15 in December 2024. This represents a 60% increase from the previous year, when egg prices were already elevated due to inflation and supply chain disruptions. In some areas, particularly in cities where grocery prices tend to be higher, a dozen eggs now cost as much as $8, with organic and specialty brands seeing even steeper price hikes.
For consumers, this sharp increase in cost has made a household staple much harder to afford. Eggs, which have long been considered an inexpensive source of protein, are now a luxury for many families.
Sarah Mitchel, a mother of three, voiced her frustration over the rising costs.
“I used to buy eggs every week because they were affordable and a great source of protein for my kids,” Mitchell said. “Now, I have to seriously reconsider how often I buy them. The prices are outrageous, and even when I do find them at a reasonable price, they’re often out of stock. I never thought I’d have to budget for eggs.”
Retailers have been struggling to keep shelves stocked as suppliers ration shipments due to the ongoing shortages. Both Kroger and Trader Joe’s have implemented limits of two dozen eggs per customer per day, hoping to prevent panic buying and ensure more shoppers have access to eggs. However, these restrictions have not been enough to ease consumer frustration, as supply remains tight and prices continue to rise.
Experts warn that egg prices may remain high for several more months. It takes four to six months for new hens to mature and begin laying eggs, meaning relief may not come until mid-to-late 2025.
Additionally, if the bird flu outbreak continues to spread, more flocks could be lost, further delaying the recovery of the egg supply. Some industry analysts predict that prices could stabilize by the summer, but that largely depends on how quickly the poultry industry can recover from its losses.
In the meantime, consumers are being forced to adjust. Restaurants which rely heavily on eggs are also facing challenges.
Leona Williams, a Waffle House employee shares they plan to deal with the impact.
“The bird flu made egg prices skyrocket, and since we use so many, it’s definitely been a challenge,” Williams said. “We’re feeling it, we had to make a temporary change and have eggs be 50 cent extra but we’re making it work.”