How Much Does a Chicken Coop Cost?
Last updated: June 2, 2026 by the How Much Does That Cost? editorial team. Estimates are informational - see our methodology.
A backyard chicken coop costs $400 to $2,000 to build, averaging around $900. Most people spend roughly $600 for a basic 18-square-foot coop with a run, enough space for about 6 chickens. Simple A-frame designs can start around $250, while a large, premium all-in-one coop with a built-in run can run $3,000 to $4,000 or more.
Size and quality are the two biggest factors — a basic DIY kit or plan-built coop costs far less than a mid-range coop with proper nest boxes and ventilation, and a premium custom-built structure costs more still. Since the coop often becomes a permanent fixture in the yard, it's worth planning its placement as part of your broader landscaping. The calculator below adjusts for your coop size, quality tier, and design.
Quick Answer
Typical range: $400 – $2,000
Low end
$250
High end
$4,000+
Actual pricing varies by location, project size, materials, labor rates, and job complexity. Use the calculator below for an estimate tailored to your project.
a Chicken Coop Cost Calculator
Adjust the inputs below for an estimate tailored to your project.
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Estimated Project Cost
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Typical estimate: —
This is an estimate, not a quote. Actual pricing depends on your specific project details and local contractor pricing.
Cost Breakdown
How a typical project budget breaks down by category.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Coop structure/materials (framing, walls, roofing) | $200 – $1,000 |
| Run/enclosure fencing | $80 – $400 |
| Nest boxes and roosting bars | $50 – $200 |
| Ventilation and flooring | $40 – $200 |
| Hardware (latches, hinges, predator-proofing) | $30 – $200 |
What Affects the Cost
Coop size / flock size
Coops need roughly 3-4 square feet of interior space per chicken, so a coop sized for a larger flock needs more materials and labor.
Materials and quality tier
A basic DIY kit built from budget lumber costs far less than a mid-range coop with proper insulation and ventilation, or a premium custom-built structure.
Coop type
A simple A-frame coop is the cheapest design, a mobile chicken tractor costs somewhat more, a walk-in coop costs more still, and an all-in-one coop with an attached run is the priciest option, comparable in scope to a small shed.
Predator-proofing
Hardware cloth (rather than standard chicken wire), buried skirting, and secure latches add cost but are essential in areas with raccoons, foxes, or hawks.
Run/enclosure size
A larger fenced run for daytime free-ranging adds fencing material and labor on top of the coop structure itself, often at similar per-foot pricing to a standard privacy fence.
Climate and insulation
Coops in cold climates often need added insulation and draft-free but ventilated design, which adds modestly to material cost.
Cost by Coop Size
| Coop Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 10 sq ft (up to 4 chickens) | $200 – $650 |
| 18 sq ft (up to 6 chickens) | $360 – $1,170 |
| 32 sq ft (up to 10 chickens) | $640 – $2,080 |
| 50 sq ft (up to 15 chickens) | $1,000 – $3,250 |
| 65 sq ft (up to 20 chickens) | $1,300 – $4,225 |
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Doing it yourself
Building your own coop from a kit or free/low-cost plans is by far the most common approach for backyard flocks, and using reclaimed lumber or basic materials can bring the cost down to the low end of the range.
Hiring a professional
A contractor or specialty coop builder can frame a larger walk-in or all-in-one coop, add proper insulation and predator-proofing, and typically finish in a few days with a more polished result.
Bottom line: DIY building is the norm for basic to mid-range coops and is a very achievable weekend project; consider hiring it out or buying a premium prefab coop only for a larger flock or a more finished look.
Ways to Save
- Build from a DIY kit or free/low-cost plans instead of hiring a contractor.
- Use reclaimed or scrap lumber and repurposed materials for the frame and siding.
- Start with a coop sized to your current flock rather than building for future expansion you may not need.
- Skip the automatic coop door at first and open/close it manually to save on that add-on.
- Buy hardware cloth and fencing in bulk rather than pre-made predator-proofing panels.
- Choose a simple A-frame or chicken tractor design instead of a larger all-in-one combo unit.
How We Estimated This Cost
We model each calculator from public price ranges, labor data, material pricing, industry surveys, and the regional adjustment method explained in our methodology. Estimates are reviewed for consumer usefulness, then shown as ranges because local quotes, site conditions, materials, and timing can change the final price.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a chicken coop?
A chicken coop costs about $900 on average to build, with most people spending $400 to $2,000 depending on size, materials, and design.
How big of a coop do I need for 6 chickens?
A coop with about 18 square feet of interior space comfortably houses up to 6 chickens, plus an attached outdoor run for daytime space.
Is it cheaper to build or buy a chicken coop?
Building your own coop from a kit or plans is usually cheaper than buying a pre-built or premium custom coop, especially if you use reclaimed materials and provide your own labor.
Do I need predator-proofing for a chicken coop?
Yes — hardware cloth (rather than standard chicken wire), secure latches, and buried skirting are strongly recommended in most areas to keep out raccoons, foxes, and other predators.
How much does an automatic coop door cost?
An automatic coop door typically adds $150 to $400 to a coop build, and opens and closes on a timer or light sensor so you do not have to do it by hand every day.