Egg prices have surged over 100% since 2021, far outpacing all other food categories. Bird flu outbreaks and supply chain issues have made eggs the most inflated grocery item in America.
The Data
Since 2021, Americans have watched grocery prices climb steadily. But no category has seen anything close to the dramatic surge in egg prices, which have more than doubled while other staples rose 20-30%.
| Food Category | Price Change | 2021 Price | 2024 Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eggs (dozen) | +100% | $1.79 | $3.58 |
| Butter | +32% | $3.50 | $4.62 |
| Chicken | +28% | $1.92/lb | $2.46/lb |
| Milk | +22% | $3.54/gal | $4.32/gal |
| Bread | +18% | $1.44 | $1.70 |
Analysis
Bird flu is the culprit. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak has killed tens of millions of laying hens, drastically reducing supply while demand remained steady.
Supply can't keep up. Rebuilding hen populations takes time—roughly 18-24 months to restore a flock to full production. This lag keeps prices elevated even after outbreaks subside.
Essential status. Unlike luxury foods, eggs are a staple protein source for millions. When supply drops, prices spike because consumers have few substitutes for this versatile ingredient.
Methodology
Price data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index and USDA retail price reports. Comparison shows cumulative price change from January 2021 baseline.
