General Discussion

As a domestic animal, chickens are more work than dogs or cats. They get noisy and want to be let out early (every day). Feed is actually not that cheap (we used a mix of feed and scraps). They'll wander and of course predators are a constant threat. If a malicious predator gets a hold of them they'll leave you with a maimed chicken, which can be a traumatizing experience.

Building or buying a coop will set you back probably $500-$1000 worth of time/money.

The eggs though, are fantastic and noticeably better. If you raise them at home you'll even be able to notice when their diet is suffering as their shells will get thinner, yolks not as golden, etc. They make adorable, soothing sounds as they wander and feed.

So even at nearly $1 an egg, the store eggs might be a better deal for most.