For more than two years, U.S. farmers have been battling a deadly strain of bird flu that continues to disrupt the nation's egg supply. Since October, widespread outbreaks across multiple states have severely impacted egg-laying hen populations. With supply dwindling, consumers are facing soaring prices, purchasing limits, empty shelves, and even restaurant surcharges on eggs.
Egg Prices Surge 53% in a Year
In January, the average price for a dozen Grade A large eggs hit a record $4.95, up from $4.15 in December, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report shows that egg prices have jumped 53% compared to a year ago—far outpacing the overall food inflation rate of just 2.5% over the same period.
BLS records show that in 1980, a dozen large Grade A eggs cost just $0.88 (not adjusted for inflation). Before February 2022, egg prices had largely remained under $2 since March 2016. However, from early 2022 onward, prices more than doubled, peaking at $4.82 per dozen in January 2023. After a brief decline, costs began rising again in late 2023, culminating in January 2025’s record high of $4.95 per dozen.
What’s Driving the Price Spike?
While inflation and pandemic-related supply chain issues have played a role, the primary driver behind skyrocketing egg prices is an ongoing outbreak of H5N1—a highly contagious and deadly strain of avian influenza. The outbreak, which began in early 2022, has since become the worst in U.S. history. As of February 18, approximately 162.59 million birds have been affected, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
More specifically, about 126.5 million egg-laying hens have been impacted, per data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. When a flock is exposed to the virus, USDA policy mandates culling to prevent further spread—leading to a sharp reduction in the number of eggs available in stores.
With supply shrinking and consumer demand remaining strong despite higher prices, the imbalance is pushing costs even higher.
