Egg prices have recently surged, causing sticker shock for shoppers as a dozen eggs can cost over $9 at some stores. This price hike has left many wondering, “Why are eggs so expensive all of a sudden?”
In December 2024, the average wholesale price for eggs in the U.S. was $4.62 per dozen, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. However, regional prices can vary significantly due to factors like transportation costs, local demand, and market competition. For instance, on January 10th, 2025, the average cost reached $8.04 in California and $6.25 in New York.
The primary driver behind these elevated egg prices is the ongoing outbreak of avian flu. This highly contagious virus, which began in early 2022, has led to the culling of millions of egg-laying hens across the country. With a reduced supply of eggs and consistent consumer demand, prices have naturally increased.
This isn’t the first time egg prices have spiked since 2022. A previous wave of avian flu also decimated hen populations, leading to supply shortages and price surges that year. Since the major outbreak began in early 2022, avian flu has resulted in the loss of over 100 million chickens in the United States.
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When Will Egg Prices Go Down?
Unfortunately, there’s no immediate relief in sight for consumers. As the supply chain continues to struggle to recover and avian flu cases persist, grocery store egg prices are unlikely to decrease in the short term. However, prices are expected to eventually decline.
While the U.S. Department of Agriculture doesn’t provide national wholesale price forecasts, the New York wholesale average per dozen serves as a benchmark for the industry. Last month, the USDA projected that New York’s average price would remain high at $4.80 in early 2025 but is anticipated to fall to $2.35 per dozen by the end of 2025. This is a slight increase from an earlier projection of $2.10 per dozen.
Although egg prices are predicted to drop from their late 2024 peaks, they are expected to remain above pre-outbreak levels throughout 2025. It’s also important to note that the egg market is volatile. Further avian flu outbreaks or disruptions to the supply chain could easily push prices up again, as egg prices are known to react quickly to changes in market conditions.
