How much does it cost to build a chicken coop?
How much does it cost to build a chicken coop?
$250 – $700 average DIY cost
$700 – $4,000 average cost with professional installation
Average chicken coop cost
A low-cost DIY chicken coop costs $250 to $700 to build a portable A-frame or tractor-style chicken coop for a small flock. A walk-in coop costs $700 to $1,500 installed and gives you space for more chickens. All-in-one coop kits are convenient for beginners, including all the essentials, like nesting boxes and an attached run.
| Coop style | Average cost |
|---|---|
| A-frame | $250 – $500 |
| Chicken tractor | $300 – $700 |
| Walk-in | $700 – $1,500+* |
| All-in-one (prefab) | $800 – $4,000+* |
*Price includes professional installation.
A-frame chicken coop
A-Frame chicken coops are a popular choice for DIYers because they are affordable and easy to build, costing $250 to $500 for materials or a prefabricated kit. The triangular shape provides excellent stability and efficient use of materials.
A-frame coops are lightweight and portable due to their small size.
This design is best for small flocks, typically featuring a small, enclosed area for roosting and nesting, with an attached run.
They can be difficult to clean due to the size and sloped roof and don’t have the best ventilation.
Chicken tractor coop
A step up from the A-frame is a mobile chicken tractor, costing between $300 and $700 for a small DIY installed model. This mobile coop provides chickens with access to fresh grass, bugs, and grubs daily, while also allowing for easier management of their waste and preventing overgrazing in one area.
Chicken tractor coops usually consist of a wheeled frame with an enclosed roosting area and an attached run.
They are particularly popular among gardeners who want to utilize their chickens for pest control and soil enrichment.
They have a bit more space and better ventilation than an A-Frame but are still best for smaller flocks because of the compact size needed for mobility.
Walk-in chicken coop
Walk-in coops, which range from $700 to $1,500+ with installation, are larger, more permanent structures that allow you to walk in the coop for easy cleaning and egg collection. They provide a safer environment for chickens, offering more space and better protection against predators and harsh weather.
Walk-in coops feature elaborate designs with separate areas for roosting, nesting, and runs, accommodating larger flocks comfortably.
These stationary structures require more space and complex construction but offer better protection and easier maintenance.
Once built, a walk-in coop is not movable, which means you cannot easily rotate it to fresh ground. This could lead to issues with waste buildup and ground degradation over time.
All-in-one chicken coop
All-in-one coops, also known as complete chicken coops, are typically prefabricated coops that cost $800 to $4,000+ installed, depending on the size, materials, and features. Great for beginners, these ready-to-use coops include all the essential components like nesting boxes, roosting bars, and an attached run.
Designs range from small, portable units to large, elaborate structures for bigger flocks.
Optional high-end features such as automatic doors, integrated feeders and waterers, or temperature control systems increase costs
While more expensive, all-in-one coops offer a convenient solution for those seeking a complete setup without extensive DIY work.
Cost to build a chicken coop
Selecting the right materials is essential for building a durable and comfortable chicken coop. The choice of materials affects both the cost and the overall safety of your chickens. The following table outlines various materials commonly used in chicken coop construction to help you plan your budget.
| Material | Average material price* | Used for: |
|---|---|---|
| Reclaimed wood | Varies (often free or low-cost) | Walls, roofing, nesting boxes |
| Softwood lumber | $2 – $5 per board foot | Framing, roosting bars |
| Pressure-treated lumber | $4 – $8 per board foot | Floor joists, support posts |
| Plywood | $15 – $20 per sheet | Walls, flooring, roofing |
| PVC | $1 – $3 per linear foot | Roosting bars, feeder/waterer systems |
| Corrugated metal | $1 – $5 per square foot | Roofing |
| Chicken wire | $0.50 – $2.00 per square foot | Enclosing run areas |
| Hardware cloth | $1 – $3 per square foot | Predator protection |
| Plastic sheeting | $25 – $30 per sheet | Moisture / wind barrier, debris collection |
| Vinyl siding cost | $2 – $6 per square foot | Exterior finish |
| Concrete slab cost | $6 – $12 per square foot | Foundation |
*Prices do not include installation.
Low-cost chicken coop ideas
Building a chicken coop on a budget is entirely possible with some creative thinking. To save money, use repurposed materials and opt for simpler designs like A-frame or chicken tractors, which require fewer materials and are easier to build.
Here are some inexpensive ideas for your chicken coop:
Straw bale coop: Use straw bales to create a temporary coop extension that is easy to assemble and provides good insulation.
Repurposed structures: Convert unused items like dog houses, garden sheds, or even old greenhouses into functional coops with minimal modifications.
Upcycled nesting boxes: Transform items like old drawers or bowls into nesting boxes, ensuring they are secure and spacious enough for your chickens.
Natural accessories: Use foraged materials like branches for roosting bars and rocks for water holders to enhance your coop without spending extra money.
For fencing, chicken wire mesh is an economical choice, costing between $2 and $5 per linear foot, including installation. This option helps keep your chickens safe from predators while staying within your budget. For other low-cost and creative fencing solutions, check out our Cheap Fencing Ideas guide.
Chicken coop cost factors
Building a chicken coop is part of the overall cost to raise chickens. It can be an exciting project, but understanding the various costs involved is essential for effective budgeting. Keep these key cost factors in mind:
Size: A small coop for a few chickens may cost around $300, while larger coops for 10 or more chickens can range from $500 to $2,000 or more.
Design complexity: Simple, rectangular designs are usually cheaper to build than complex structures with multiple levels or intricate features, which increase costs. Adding feeders, waterers, and bedding can add $50 to $200 to your overall costs.
Nesting boxes and roosting bars: These necessary components can range from $50 to $200, depending on the materials used and the number needed.
Ventilation and insulation: Adding windows or vents can cost $50 to $300, while insulation also increases costs for coops in colder climates.
Predator-proofing: Measures such as hardware cloth, buried fencing, or reinforced doors can add $50 to $300 to your budget.
Building plans: Detailed coop plans or blueprints can cost from $10 to $30 and may provide better guidance and reduce errors during construction.
Permits and regulations: Local laws may require permits for chicken coops. Always check local and HOA regulations before starting your project.
Experts recommend 1 nesting box for every 4 to 5 hens and at least 8 inches of roosting space apiece.
FAQs about building a chicken coop
What should be inside a chicken coop?
A chicken coop should include nesting boxes for laying eggs, roosting bars for sleeping, and a place for food and water. Good ventilation is important to keep the air fresh and reduce moisture for the health of the chickens.
How many square feet per chicken in a coop?
Each chicken needs at least 2 to 3 square feet of space inside the coop and 8 to 10 square feet per chicken in the outdoor run. This space allows them to move around comfortably and prevents overcrowding. For larger breeds, provide more space to ensure they are happy and healthy.
Where can I buy a chicken coop?
You can buy a chicken coop from local farm supply stores, online retailers, or specialized poultry websites. Many stores offer pre-made coops for convenience, while others sell kits that you can assemble yourself.
Who can install a chicken coop?
You can hire a handyperson, carpenter, or specialized chicken coop installer to build your chicken coop. Additionally, a landscaper experienced in assembling outdoor structures can often assemble prefab coops. In some cases, barn builders may construct larger custom chicken coops.
Do chicken coops need windows?
Yes, chicken coops should have windows to provide light and ventilation. Windows help keep the air fresh and reduce humidity inside the coop. It is important to secure the windows with strong mesh to protect the chickens from predators while allowing for airflow.
Getting estimates from chicken coop builders
If DIY is not your thing or you have elaborate plans for your chicken coop, consider hiring someone to create a comfortable, safe space for your chickens. These suggestions can help:
Research local companies with experience constructing chicken coops.
Ask for references and check reviews from previous customers on HomeGuide and Google.
Get at least 3 to 4 quotes to compare prices and services.
Provide detailed information about your property and any site challenges.
Discuss customization options and associated costs.
Ask about their experience with predator-proofing coops.
Inquire about ventilation and insulation methods.
Ask if they can provide design ideas or work from your plans
Request itemized estimates to understand cost breakdowns.
Inquire about permits and whether they handle the paperwork.
Ask about warranties, timelines, and payment schedules.
Questions to ask a chicken coop installer
To find the best chicken coop builder for your project, ask these important questions:
What is your experience with building chicken coops?
Can you provide references from previous clients?
What materials do you recommend for durability and safety?
How long will the construction take?
What is included in your estimate, and what other costs might come up during the project?
Do you handle permits and inspections?
What features do you recommend for ventilation and insulation?
Can you customize the design based on my needs?
What type of warranty do you offer on your work?
How do you ensure the coop is predator-proof?
Will you provide maintenance tips after installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.