How Much Does It Cost to Feed Chickens in Ontario? 2026 Calculator

The average cost to feed chickens in Ontario is approximately $2–$4 per hen per month, depending on feed prices, flock size, season, and whether you buy feed in bulk. A typical laying hen eats around 100–120 grams of feed per day, meaning a 25 kg bag can feed approximately 8–10 hens for about one month.

Introduction

Raising backyard chickens in Ontario has become increasingly popular among homeowners, hobby farmers, and small-scale poultry keepers. Many new chicken owners ask the same question:

“How much does it cost to feed chickens in Ontario?”

Feed is one of the biggest ongoing expenses when keeping hens. Understanding your monthly chicken feed cost helps you plan your budget, choose the right feed, and maintain a healthy flock.

In this guide, we will calculate the cost to feed chickens in Ontario in 2026, including:

• Daily feed consumption

• Monthly feed costs

• Cost per hen

• 25 kg bag calculations

• Ways to reduce feed expenses

• Choosing the right chicken feed

How Much Feed Does a Chicken Eat Per Day?

A mature laying hen typically consumes:

Chicken Type	Daily Feed Requirement
Small backyard hen	90–110 grams/day
Average laying hen	100–120 grams/day
Large breed hen	120–140 grams/day

For budgeting purposes, most backyard flock owners can estimate:

100 grams of feed per hen per day

This means:

• 1 hen = about 3 kg feed/month

• 5 hens = about 15 kg feed/month

• 10 hens = about 30 kg feed/month

• 25 hens = about 75 kg feed/month

Winter Chicken Feed Costs in Ontario

Ontario winters can increase feed consumption because chickens use more energy to maintain body temperature.

During colder months:

• Feed intake may increase

• Birds need higher energy availability

• Free-range opportunities decrease

  
  

Tips for reducing winter feed costs:

✓ Keep feeders protected from snow and moisture

✓ Reduce feed waste

✓ Use quality complete layer feed

✓ Store feed in sealed containers

Layer Pellets vs Layer Crumble: Which Is Better?

Both provide complete nutrition, but the choice depends on your flock.

Layer Crumble

Benefits:

• Easier for smaller hens to eat

• Suitable for backyard flocks

• Less intimidating for young birds

• Easy transition from starter feeds

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Layer Pellets

Benefits:

• Less waste

• Cleaner feeding area

• Good for larger flocks

  
  

For many backyard chicken owners, crumble feed is preferred because it is easy for hens to pick up and consume.

How to Reduce Chicken Feed Costs in Ontario

1. Buy Larger Bags

Buying 25 kg bags or larger quantities can reduce the cost per kilogram.

2. Prevent Feed Waste

Use:

• Proper feeder height

• Covered feeders

• Clean feeding areas

  
  

3. Choose Complete Chicken Feed

A balanced feed reduces the need for additional supplements.

4. Allow Safe Free Ranging

Chickens may supplement their diet with:

• Insects

• Grass

• Plants

  
  

However, complete feed should remain the main nutrition source.

Choosing the Right Chicken Feed

A quality layer feed should provide:

✓ Balanced protein

✓ Calcium support

✓ Essential vitamins

✓ Minerals

✓ Proper energy levels

Farmers Choice Chicken Crazy Crumble is designed for laying hens with an easy-to-feed crumble texture, making it suitable for backyard chicken flocks.

FAQ

How much does it cost to feed chickens in Ontario?

The average cost is around $2–$4 per hen per month depending on feed price, flock size, and feeding habits.

How much feed does a laying hen eat per month?

A laying hen typically eats around 3 kg of feed per month.

How long does a 25 kg bag of chicken feed last?

A 25 kg bag usually lasts around 25–30 days for approximately 10 hens.

Is chicken feed expensive in Ontario?

Feed costs vary by supplier and formula, but buying quality feed in larger quantities can help control costs.

What is the cheapest way to feed backyard chickens?

The most economical approach is reducing waste, buying appropriate bag sizes, and using complete poultry feed.