Egg Prices Are Soaring! Here’s Where to Find Cheaper Eggs

If you’ve been to the grocery store lately, you’ve probably noticed that eggs are getting ridiculously expensive. What used to be an affordable staple is now inching toward luxury status, and shoppers are feeling the pinch. So, why are eggs so expensive right now? A combination of factors is at play, but the biggest culprit is the ongoing bird flu outbreak, which has wiped out millions of egg-laying hens across the country. As a result, egg supplies are tight, and prices have surged by more than 40% this year alone, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

It’s not just about supply and demand. Some states are adjusting their policies to make eggs more accessible, grocery stores are limiting purchases, and even restaurants are adding extra charges to egg-based dishes. So, if you’re tired of sticker shock in the dairy aisle, you’re not alone. However, there are ways to find cheaper eggs if you know where to look. I’ve done the legwork to track down the best places to buy eggs at a reasonable price

Why Are Eggs So Expensive?

Egg prices aren’t just creeping up—they’re soaring. The main driver behind this increase is the bird flu, which has led to the culling of more than 13 million birds since late 2024. With fewer hens laying eggs, the supply has taken a serious hit, making eggs harder to find and significantly more expensive.

Inflation and rising feed costs also contribute to the problem, but they aren’t the primary reason for the spike. The USDA describes the national egg supply as “light with little chance for improvement,” meaning we’re unlikely to see prices drop anytime soon. States like Ohio, Indiana, and Missouri—major egg producers—have been hit particularly hard by the outbreak.

Some states, like Nevada and Colorado, have even reconsidered their cage-free egg laws in an effort to ease supply constraints. But industry experts say these policies don’t have much impact compared to the massive losses caused by the bird flu. Until egg production stabilizes, prices will remain high, and consumers will have to be strategic about where they shop.

Where to Find Cheaper Eggs

If the prices are soaring and they are not likely to come down in the near future, should we stop eating eggs? Not exactly, here is how you can find eggs in cheaper prices. 

Discount Grocery Stores

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to save, start with discount grocery chains. Aldi used to be unbeatable for budget-friendly eggs, but prices have gone up in recent months. That said, their cage-free brown eggs still tend to be a better deal than standard Grade A eggs at many other stores.

Trader Joe’s is another solid option. Their eggs are consistently well-priced, especially if you’re looking for organic or free-range options that won’t break the bank. Walmart’s Great Value brand often undercuts competitors which makes it one of the best places to find cheaper eggs without sacrificing quality. Even Target, which isn’t always known for grocery savings, has remained competitive in the egg aisle.

Bulk Retailers

If you go through eggs quickly, buying in bulk can save you money. Costco and Sam’s Club typically offer some of the best prices per dozen, provided you have a membership. Sam’s Club, in particular, has consistently low prices for large quantities which makes it an excellent choice for big families or frequent egg consumers.

There’s one catch—availability. Some Costco locations have struggled to keep eggs in stock, and many sell out quickly. If you’re shopping at a warehouse club, your best bet is to go early in the morning when shipments arrive. Employees at some locations have confirmed that egg deliveries come in daily, but they don’t always last long.

Local Farms and Farmers’ Markets

If you want fresh eggs at a reasonable price, checking out local farms or farmers’ markets will be worthwhile. Not only will you get higher-quality eggs, but you’ll also be supporting small-scale farmers. Some farms even sell eggs directly to consumers at roadside stands or through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

Pricing can vary, but in many cases, buying local is comparable to or even cheaper than grocery store prices—especially with the current shortage. If you bring your own carton or buy in bulk, some farmers offer discounts as well.

Unexpected Places

It may sound strange, but you might find cheaper eggs in places you wouldn’t normally think to look. Some gas stations and convenience stores stock eggs at surprisingly reasonable prices, and because fewer people buy them there, they may not be selling out as fast as grocery stores.

Pharmacy chains, like CVS and Walgreens, also carry eggs, though availability can be hit or miss. In some cases, these stores offer eggs at lower prices than supermarkets, particularly when grocery chains are struggling to keep shelves stocked. If you’re having trouble finding eggs at your usual store, it’s worth stopping by one of these alternative spots.

Online Grocery Services

Online grocery shopping isn’t just convenient—it can also save you money. Many grocery apps offer exclusive discounts or loyalty rewards, and some even allow you to compare prices across multiple stores without leaving home.

Subscription-based grocery services that source from local farms may also be an option. These services often provide fresher eggs with ethical sourcing while helping you avoid inflated grocery store prices. While they may not always be cheaper than discount stores, they offer a good alternative when supply is tight.

What Alternatives to Look for When Prices Get Too High

If you’re open to substitutes, consider liquid eggs or plant-based alternatives. Products like Egg Beaters provide an easy, cost-effective way to get the protein and versatility of eggs without paying premium prices.

For those who prefer plant-based options, JUST Egg—made from mung beans—is a solid alternative. While it may not always be cheaper than regular eggs, it’s a useful backup when grocery stores are struggling to keep shelves stocked.

Smart Shopping Strategies to Save Money

Beyond knowing where to shop, timing can also impact your savings. Grocery stores often receive fresh shipments in the morning, so shopping early increases your chances of finding eggs in stock. Some stores also discount eggs nearing their sell-by date, making it possible to grab a deal if you’re willing to use them quickly.

Additionally, keep an eye out for holiday promotions. While shortages have disrupted typical pricing trends, Easter and Thanksgiving still tend to bring temporary price drops on eggs.