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Chicken Coop Size Calculator

Estimate the right coop space, run space, roost length, and nest boxes for your flock. Then match the result to practical coop and run supplies before you buy.

Calculator

Size your coop and run

Recommended plan

6 hens need 24+ sq ft inside

A balanced setup for most backyard flocks. Check your city rules before buying, because flock limits, setbacks, and coop placement can change what actually fits.

Minimum coop

24 sq ft

Comfort target: 30 sq ft

Minimum run

60 sq ft

Comfort target: 72 sq ft

Roost space

6 ft

Plan on about 12 inches per bird.

Nest boxes

2

One box per 3-4 hens is usually enough.

Products matched to this setup

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Quick chart

Standard chicken coop size chart

These are practical minimums for standard-size hens. For heavier breeds, hot climates, or mostly confined birds, choose the comfort target from the calculator above.

Flock size Minimum coop space Minimum run space Example footprint
3 hens 12 sq ft 30 sq ft 4 ft x 3 ft coop with a 5 ft x 6 ft run
4 hens 16 sq ft 40 sq ft 4 ft x 4 ft coop with a 5 ft x 8 ft run
6 hens 24 sq ft 60 sq ft 6 ft x 4 ft coop with a 6 ft x 10 ft run
8 hens 32 sq ft 80 sq ft 8 ft x 4 ft coop with an 8 ft x 10 ft run
10 hens 40 sq ft 100 sq ft 8 ft x 5 ft coop with a 10 ft x 10 ft run

How much coop space do chickens need?

A good planning rule for standard backyard hens is at least 4 square feet of indoor coop space per bird and 10 square feet of outdoor run space per bird. This is the baseline for normal-size hens with access to both a coop and a run.

More space is better when chickens spend most of the day enclosed. Crowded flocks are more likely to create odor, bare ground, bullying, feather picking, and neighbor complaints.

When should you size up?

  • Choose more space for large breeds like Orpingtons, Brahmas, and Jersey Giants.
  • Choose more run space when hens are mostly confined by city rules or predators.
  • Choose more shade and water capacity in hot climates.
  • Choose winter water support and wind protection in cold climates.

Check local chicken laws before buying

Coop size is only one part of planning. Many cities also regulate flock limits, roosters, permits, coop setbacks, and where the coop can sit on your lot. Before buying a coop, check your city page in the backyard chicken laws directory.

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A quick pre-buy checklist for sizing, placement, water, feed storage, predator proofing, and local law checks.

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