You're seeing it everywhere... Facebook, Instagram, your neighborhood… and now you're tempted to give it a try.
Yes, the backyard chicken phenomenon that is sweeping through suburbs across the nation is real.
If you're looking to buy your first chicken coop online, here’s a comprehensive guide with 5 essential tips to help you confidently choose the right coop.
What this article is not:
You're probably aware your coop needs doors, maybe some roosting bars, reliable safety (like a predator-proof protection kit), and should be easy to clean. You'll find this info on every other chicken coop site. The problem is it can become information overload and won't help you narrow down your chicken coop options.
This guide simplifies your decision-making process by highlighting practical considerations, so you can make the best choice for your first chicken coop.
DANNY'S PRO TIP: Sometimes the hardest part of buying a coop is convincing everyone you live with how great they are! This can sometimes be the hardest part. This article can help with this. So let’s get started!
5 Steps to Buy a Chicken Coop Online
1. Be Confident - You’re already a pro!
You’ve made thousands of purchasing decisions in your lifetime, and over the past decade, you have become a master at vetting products online.
Chicken coops can still be purchased in stores, but the majority are sold online, opening up a wide range of options.
The process of buying a coop online is very similar to other purchases, so trust your instincts and shop with confidence. Remember, you'll be looking for size, safety, and materials—all of which are key to making sure your chickens are happy and secure.
2. Know your budget
If you’ve already done the math, you know that having chickens won’t necessarily reduce your grocery bill. However, life is short, and not everything is about saving money.
The tangible and emotional benefits of having backyard chickens, like fresh eggs and outdoor fun, are priceless.
Some would never pay more than $20 for a pet, while others might pay up to $10,000. Like all pets, chickens require initial costs and ongoing maintenance. Your chicken coop will be the largest part of your initial investment. Here’s how to budget for your first chicken coop:
- The Coop: Prices vary from $199 to $5,000, depending on size, materials, and design.
- The Accessories: Essential items like feeders, waterers, and nesting boxes.
- The Feed: Your flock will require ongoing food supplies.
Pro Tip: As with most things, you get what you pay for. Consider your budget carefully and balance it with quality. We’ll dive into high, medium, and low-priced coops later in the article.
3. Choose Your Style, Size, and Function
Whether you’re shopping for a coop, shirt, or car, we tend to start with aesthetics! The #1 reason people hesitate to join the backyard chicken movement is that they struggle to find a coop they like the look of.
Getting the style you want will get you started, and your love for the chickens will keep you going.
How to Choose Your First Chicken Coop’s Style
Do you want luxury, practicality, or both? There's a coop for everyone—rustic barns, modern houses, or even plastic molds (not my style, but proof that there’s something for everyone!).
Tip: Pick a style that complements your home and yard. You can also accessorize your coop to make it stand out. For example, add a rooster weathervane, exterior lighting, or fun elements like bells for your kids and chickens to enjoy.
How to Choose Your Coop’s Size
When determining the right coop size, think about the number of chickens you want to keep, but also consider the space in your yard.
General rule of thumb: Allocate 3-4 square feet per chicken inside the coop and 8-10 square feet per chicken in the run.
Start by measuring the area where you plan to place the coop, and visualize it using blankets or boards.
Pro Tip: If you’re on a budget, opt for a smaller coop model that fits your space. You can also add a chicken run extension to give your chickens more room to roam while keeping them protected. A walk-in run extension can make it easier for you to access feeders or perform routine cleaning. Also a run extension roof for the run extension can help keep the run from becoming a muddy mess and therefore your coop a muddy mess.
How to Choose Your Coop’s Function and Customization
Does the coop allow for customization? Can you paint it? Add accessories? Choose a coop that fits your style and can be easily maintained.
Here are a few popular coop features to consider:
- Light fixtures for nighttime visibility
- Signs or planter boxes for aesthetic appeal
- Cameras for monitoring the chickens
Make sure the coop is designed for easy maintenance. Features like large doors for cleaning and secure nesting boxes for egg collection are important for first-time buyers.
4. Getting the Most for Your Dollar
There are $199 coops, and there are $5,000 coops. Price usually reflects factors like size, materials, and build quality. Here’s how to find the right balance:
- Low-Cost Coops ($199-$499): Expect basic structures made from lighter materials, often requiring more maintenance over time.
- Mid-Range Coops ($500-$1,500): These coops usually offer better quality materials and durability, making them suitable for most backyard chicken keepers.
- High-End Coops ($2,000+): These offer premium materials, customization, and often more aesthetic appeal, like weather-resistant features and detailed craftsmanship.
Keep in mind: The size of the coop will have the biggest impact on your budget. If you find a style you like but it’s too expensive, consider reducing your flock size or choosing a smaller version of the same model.
5. Buying a Partner for the Journey
Trust is the currency when shopping online. Without it, we’d still be shopping face-to-face.
Here are 3 ways to ensure you choose your first chicken coop from a trustworthy source:
- Customer Support: Reach out to the company. Do they respond quickly? Are they helpful? Whether it's a family business or a large company, make sure someone is available to answer your questions.
- More Than Just a Seller: Choose a company that offers ongoing support, including delivery assistance and advice on repairs.
- Repair and Replacement Options: A well-made coop is an investment. Look for companies that offer replacement parts for worn-out items, which can extend the life of your coop.
Ready to Buy Your First Chicken Coop Online?
We hope this guide has built your confidence in choosing the right coop for your backyard. If you have any questions, we’re here to help!
Final Checklist for First-Time Chicken Coop Buyers:
Budget: Have you determined your coop budget, including accessories and feed?
Size: Have you calculated the space you need based on your yard and the number of chickens?
Style: Does the coop match your home’s aesthetics and offer customization options?
Functionality: Are you comfortable with maintenance requirements, like cleaning and feeding access?
Support: Have you chosen a company that offers reliable customer support and replacement options?
About Danny
Chicken Coop Specialist
Danny was raised in a family business in a small town USA, where his upbringing instilled a deep sense of community and relationship in business. With experience in “door-to-door” sales and leading customer experience and sales teams in the tech industry, Danny has mastered the art of connecting with people and understanding their needs.
Connect with Danny on LinkedIn.
