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We Got Rid of Joe Biden For Good, But Why Are Egg Prices Still High?

At grocery stores across the country, Americans are doing a double take at the dairy produce section. Last December, the average cost of a dozen large, grade-A eggs jumped from $3.65 in November 2024 to $4.15, a 13.7% increase in just one month. Compared to 2023, egg prices have surged by over 36% last year. Now, market sources are predicting another 20% rise in costs for 2025. While inflation plays a role, there are other real culprits in play.
A History of Rising Egg Prices
Historically, egg prices have always fluctuated. But the real surge began in 2022 when avian flu wreaked havoc on poultry farms across America. In January 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that egg prices reached a historic peak of $4.82 per dozen. While prices dipped briefly in mid-2023, they remained high compared to pre-pandemic levels when a dozen eggs typically cost around $1.50 to $2.00.
Usually, food prices increase at a moderate pace, but recently, eggs have behaved particularly jumpy. While overall food inflation stood at 2.2% last year, egg prices jumped more than 36%. During the recent elections, egg prices became a focal point of the presidential debate. Why can’t the administration at the time lower egg prices? Fast forward to 2025, however, egg prices remain far above pre-pandemic levels. So what’s wrong?
Why Egg Prices Won’t Drop Anytime Soon
The primary driver behind soaring egg prices is the relentless spread of avian flu. In the final months of 2024, the USDA reported that 17.2 million egg-laying hens were culled to contain the virus. That accounted for nearly half of all birds lost that year. It’s already 2025, but the outbreak continues. In fact, new cases in California, Indiana, and North Carolina have already resulted in the loss of another 8.3 million birds in early 2025. Unlike previous strains, this virus isn’t fading with the seasons. It’s a year-round problem that keeps disrupting supply, sending prices higher.
Avian flu isn’t the only factor at play. Several additional challenges are keeping prices elevated. New regulations in states like California and Massachusetts require cage-free egg production, which increases costs. Cage-free facilities need more space, feed, and resources, all of which drive up production costs. In some areas, cage-free eggs now cost as much as $6.19 per dozen, compared to $4.49 for conventional eggs.
Soaring demand has also played a role. Despite rising costs, eggs remain essential in most households. The American Egg Board reports demand has been at record highs for over 20 consecutive months. With the upcoming Easter season expected to further boost demand, prices may rise even higher. Additionally, supply chain disruptions continue to plague the industry. Feed costs remain elevated, and transportation costs have increased, affecting egg prices nationwide. Wholesalers in New York and California have already raised prices to as much as $8.35 per dozen.
Will Egg Prices Keep Rising This Year?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. The USDA predicts another 20% increase in egg prices this year, as U.S. supplies remain tight. Organic and cage-free eggs are even pricier, sometimes exceeding $6 per dozen.
With no quick fix in sight, Americans will need to adapt to a new normal. Some grocery chains have started limiting purchases to prevent stockpiling. More shockingly, shoppers in certain regions are already paying double the national average. In New York, for example, wholesale prices for large eggs reached $7.24 per dozen, while the Midwest saw prices climb to $6.84.
No Quick Fix
As long as avian flu persists, the industry remains in limbo. Scientists are working on potential vaccines, but widespread implementation is a challenge. Some importing countries may even reject vaccinated eggs, making matters more complex.
In the meantime, the U.S. government is exploring better testing, increased biosecurity measures, and potential financial relief for struggling farmers. However, without a major breakthrough, prices are expected to stay high for the foreseeable future.
How are you adjusting to rising egg prices? Do you see it going down anytime soon? Tell us what you think!

