Pasture-Raised eggs and small flock business

Neighbors, farmers market shoppers, local grocers, cafes and co-ops that want local eggs.

Price per dozen eggs, sold from a farm stand, at markets, by subscription or wholesale to local stores.

• Animal care and handling
• Daily routine and reliability
• Basic building and fencing
• Selling and customer service

• Check your state's rules on egg sales, such as licensing, labeling, cartons and refrigeration
• Check zoning, HOA or lease rules before keeping animals
• Bird flu and disease risks, ask your state department of agriculture or a vet about biosecurity
• Predators, heat and cold, and daily care mean you cannot easily take time off
• General liability insurance and farm coverage, ask an agent

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on flock size, housing, fencing and equipment. These are estimates, so price out your setup before buying birds.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on flock size and where you sell. These are estimates, and daily care means you cannot easily take time off, so factor in your hours.

Check your state's rules on egg sales, such as licensing, labeling, cartons and refrigeration. Also check zoning, HOA or lease rules before keeping animals, and ask your state department of agriculture or a vet about bird flu biosecurity.