Chicken Prices in the United States from 2020 to 2025

Chicken prices in the United States from 2020 to 2025 have been influenced by a variety of factors, including production levels, demand shifts, supply chain disruptions, and external pressures like avian influenza and feed costs. Below is an overview based on available data and projections up to the current date, February 27, 2025.

In 2020, chicken prices experienced volatility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Wholesale boneless, skinless chicken breast prices averaged around $0.99 per pound, according to export data, reflecting a dip as demand shifted from restaurants to grocery stores. Production adjusted downward as the industry grappled with uncertainties, and retail prices for fresh whole chicken hovered around $1.69 per pound, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

By 2021, prices began to rebound as demand surged with economic reopening. Wholesale chicken breast prices rose to $1.23 per pound, driven by tight supplies and increased restaurant demand. Retail prices for boneless chicken breast averaged $3.37 per pound, while fresh whole chicken reached about $1.76 per pound. The poultry sector struggled to ramp up production quickly enough to meet this spike, compounded by rising feed costs.

In 2022, chicken prices hit record highs. Wholesale boneless, skinless chicken breast prices peaked at $1.36 per pound, reflecting production cuts by major producers like Tyson Foods to boost margins amid inflation. Retail prices soared, with boneless chicken breast averaging $4.75 per pound in the summer, though the yearly average settled around $4.10 per pound. Fresh whole chicken prices climbed to $1.92 per pound. Strong consumer demand for chicken as a cheaper protein alternative to beef and pork fueled this trend, despite a slight production increase to 44.8 billion pounds.

For 2023, prices moderated slightly but remained elevated. Wholesale chicken breast prices dropped back to around $1.27 per pound as supplies grew marginally, with production hitting nearly 45 billion pounds. Retail boneless chicken breast prices averaged $4.08 per pound, and fresh whole chicken was about $1.96 per pound. The industry stabilized somewhat, though avian influenza continued to pose risks to supply.

In 2024, chicken prices showed resilience despite production challenges. The USDA projected broiler production at around 46.5 billion pounds, with wholesale broiler prices averaging $1.29 per pound. Retail prices for boneless chicken breast held steady at approximately $4.10 per pound in December, while fresh whole chicken prices were close to $2.00 per pound. Demand remained strong, though egg shortages and high feed costs kept upward pressure on poultry prices.

For 2025, based on USDA projections as of early January, broiler production is expected to reach 47.5 billion pounds, signaling continued growth. Wholesale broiler prices are forecasted to ease slightly to $1.27 per pound, reflecting stable supply increases. Retail price data for 2025 is not fully available as of February 27, but early trends suggest boneless chicken breast prices could remain near $4.00-$4.10 per pound, with fresh whole chicken potentially around $2.00-$2.05 per pound, assuming no major disruptions. However, mid-February 2025 indicate a 22% increase in chicken breast prices from 2021 to 2024, aligning with retail data showing a rise from $3.37 to $4.10 per pound over that period, suggesting 2025 prices may still reflect inflationary pressures.

Overall, chicken prices from 2020 to 2025 have risen from pandemic-era lows to sustained highs, driven by demand, production adjustments, and external factors. While 2025 projections suggest a slight softening, prices remain above pre-2020 levels, with potential volatility if avian influenza or feed costs spike again.