Egg prices in US are finally cracking under pressure—in the best way possible. After 18 months of record-breaking costs that left consumers scrambling, wholesale prices have dropped to $3.00 per dozen, a 9% weekly decline according to USDA data released this morning. This dramatic shift offers much-needed relief to households that have watched egg prices soar 137% since the avian flu pandemic began devastating poultry farms in late 2022. The price drop comes just in time for spring baking season and passover celebrations, when egg demand traditionally peaks.
Why the Egg Prices in US Are Finally Falling?
Three key factors are driving prices down in what agricultural economists are calling “The Great Egg Correction of 2025”:
- Bird Flu Retreats Dramatically – USDA reports March 2025 saw just 2.1 million avian flu cases compared to 12.64 million in February and 23.19 million in January. The current infection rate represents a 91% reduction from winter peaks.
- Production Rebounds Faster Than Expected – Major producers like Cal-Maine Foods report flock replenishment is proceeding 30% faster than projections. Retailers nationwide have lifted purchase limits that were common earlier this year, with supermarket chains reporting 98% stocking levels compared to just 63% in December 2024.
- Global Imports Make Historic Impact – The U.S. has imported over 287 million eggs from Brazil, Türkiye, and South Korea since January under emergency agricultural provisions. While most went to food manufacturers, the imports helped stabilize the entire supply chain. The USDA is now negotiating long-term import agreements with three additional countries to create a buffer against future disruptions.
Regional Egg Price Differences Emerge
While the wholesale market shows uniform improvement, retail prices vary significantly by region according to the latest NielsenIQ grocery data:
- Northeast (NY/NJ/CT): $3.86 per dozen, reflecting a modest 2% decrease.
- Midwest: $3.69 per dozen, with a notable 32% wholesale drop. Being close to production centers, the Midwest has seen the fastest decline.
- California: $5.34 per dozen, marking an 18.6% decrease.
- Southwest: $4.12 per dozen, benefiting from new distribution hubs with a 22% decrease.
“Wholesale prices are falling faster than retail,” explains Ryan Hojnowski of Expana Analytics. “It typically takes 2-3 weeks for grocery stores to work through existing inventory and reflect these changes. The USDA projects regional disparities will narrow by late April as distribution networks adjust.
Political and Economic Impact of Egg Prices in US
The falling egg prices come at a crucial time politically, with food costs becoming a major issue before the 2026 elections:
- US President Trump recently touted the price drop at a campaign stop, taking credit for his team’s work to boost imports. “We’ve cut egg prices nearly in half since February,” he said, referring to the record $5.90 per dozen prices earlier this year.
- Democrats in Congress counter that their $1.2 billion farm aid package deserves recognition for helping producers recover.
- Government data shows prices remain well above 2024 levels – keeping eggs in the political spotlight as a symbol of inflation.
- Financial experts caution that the market isn’t completely stable yet, with egg futures still seeing significant daily swings.
What Shoppers Should Expect Next?
Industry experts advise consumers to:
- Look for deeper discounts in mid-April as stores clear Easter inventory
- Consider buying in bulk at club stores where prices are dropping fastest
- Watch for “manager’s specials” on eggs approaching sell-by dates
- Expect potential short-term spikes around Mother’s Day brunch demand
The USDA’s revised outlook suggests prices may stabilize 25-30% above pre-crisis levels due to:
- Higher biosecurity costs at farms
- Increased insurance premiums
- New refrigeration requirements for transport
The Road Ahead
The egg prices in US crisis appear to be stabilizing thanks to:
- Unprecedented international cooperation on poultry health
- $750 million in USDA modernization grants to egg producers
- Advanced vaccination programs showing 89% effectiveness
- Consumer shift to plant-based alternatives easing some demand
While prices remain 42% above historical norms, the worst seems over. As production continues recovering, consumers can expect gradual improvements at grocery stores through spring. Major chains like Kroger and Albertsons have already announced planned price reductions of 10-15% through May. For now, the dramatic price drop offers welcome relief—and proves that even the most scrambled market situations can eventually unscramble.
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