Backyard Chickens in France: How Many Hens Do You Really Need?

Thinking about keeping chickens in France? Discover how many hens your family really needs, how much it costs, and why fresh eggs are worth the effort.

More families and expats across France are turning to backyard chickens — not just for the fresh eggs, but for a taste of rural simplicity. Yet one question always comes up first: how many chickens does a family actually need? The answer might surprise you. With just a few hens, it’s possible to enjoy a steady supply of eggs while keeping costs and care low.

In this practical guide, we explore the ideal flock size for families, how much it costs to feed and house them, and why home-laid eggs often taste far better than anything in the supermarket. Whether you live in the countryside or a village, keeping a small flock can be a rewarding, sustainable part of life in France.
Read the full guide here