Why Are Egg Prices in the U.S. So High in 2025?

Photo by Peter Werkman

Egg prices in the United States have hit historic highs in 2025, with Los Angeles standing out as one of the most expensive markets in the country. The average cost for a dozen large eggs in California recently soared to $8.97, with some retailers charging even more. At Ralphs, a dozen eggs is priced at an eye-popping $8.99, while Whole Foods offers them for a relatively lower price of $3.79. For consumers navigating these fluctuating prices, grocery shopping has become a balancing act between necessity and affordability.

The primary driver of this spike is the ongoing avian influenza outbreak, which has decimated the U.S. egg supply. Millions of egg-laying hens have been culled to prevent the spread of the virus, leaving farmers struggling to maintain production. California, in particular, has felt the brunt of the outbreak due to its dependence on both local and out-of-state egg supplies.

In addition to the virus, rising production costs are fueling the price surge. Farmers are paying more for feed, fuel, and labor, and those increases are reflected on grocery store shelves. With demand for eggs at an all-time high, particularly in the restaurant industry, prices have remained stubbornly elevated.

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Despite the impact of these market pressures, some industry watchers are raising questions about the extent of the price hike. Major egg producers like Cal-Maine Foods have reported significant profit growth during this period, sparking concerns about potential price manipulation. Consumer advocacy groups have called for greater transparency, urging an investigation into whether supply is intentionally being limited to drive up prices.

In Los Angeles, where egg prices have left many shoppers shell-shocked, alternatives like farmers’ markets and local suppliers offer some relief. However, the overall cost remains steep, and there’s no immediate sign of prices returning to pre-crisis levels.

Looking ahead, experts predict that the elevated egg prices could persist into 2026, depending on how quickly the egg supply recovers and whether additional measures are taken to curb inflation. For now, consumers are left adjusting their grocery budgets, hoping for relief as investigations continue and market conditions stabilize.

Editor’s Note: This article will be updated as more information becomes available from market analysts and government investigations.