The Airbnb for Backyard Chickens: How Urbanites Are Renting Hens for Fresh Eggs

In a city where organic brunch spots now rival the number of coffee shops, it was only a matter of time before backyard chickens joined the ranks of must-have lifestyle accessories. But for urban dwellers without the commitment—or the zoning permit—to own their own flock, there’s now a rental solution: short-term chicken leases, the newest twist on the farm-to-table trend that’s capturing the imaginations (and Instagram feeds) of city slickers everywhere.

Known informally as the “Airbnb for backyard chickens,” these services allow customers to lease hens for anywhere from a weekend to an entire summer. For a flat fee—typically around $100 to $150 per week—customers get a small coop, two or three egg-laying hens, a starter feed supply, and a crash course in poultry care. The appeal? Fresh eggs, homegrown bragging rights, and a dash of rustic charm in the heart of the city.

“It’s all about the experience,” says Sarah Finch, co-founder of Urban Henhouse, a Denver-based rental service that’s grown 300% since its launch in 2022. “Our customers want to post photos of their breakfast—eggs they collected themselves that morning. It’s like sourdough starter, but with feathers.”

The trend taps into a wider cultural shift: consumers’ growing appetite for local, sustainable food—without the permanent responsibility of animal ownership. “We started seeing this demand during the pandemic,” says Finch. “People wanted to reconnect with their food. But not everyone’s ready for a 10-year chicken commitment.”

Clients range from families looking to teach kids where eggs come from to influencers eager for that perfect golden-yolked photo op. In San Francisco, entrepreneur Calvin Park rented a trio of hens for his backyard garden this spring. “It was so cool to see them scratching around, pecking at bugs,” he says. “And the eggs were insane—bright orange yolks, better than anything at the farmers’ market.”

Of course, there are some logistics to consider. Chickens are messy, noisy at dawn, and—despite their Instagram charm—require daily care. Rental companies offer 24/7 support hotlines and detailed care guides, including troubleshooting tips for everything from soft-shell eggs to assertive roosters (which most services, for obvious reasons, avoid entirely).

Critics, however, caution that this model risks turning animals into disposable novelties. “Chickens aren’t props,” says Dr. Linnea Kim, a veterinary ethicist. “Even short-term renters need to understand the welfare implications—these are living creatures that deserve proper care and respect.”

Finch agrees but defends the practice. “We screen every renter, and we’re very clear about the responsibility involved. If it inspires even a few people to think more about where their food comes from, that’s a win.”

For now, the trend shows no sign of slowing. Urban Henhouse plans to expand to Chicago and Seattle this year, and at least three similar startups have popped up in Los Angeles and New York. Finch says the growth is driven by a simple human desire: “People want a connection to their food—and they want it in a way that fits their lifestyle.”

So if you’re dreaming of farm-fresh eggs but can’t commit to a permanent flock, short-term chicken rentals might be your perfect compromise. Just be prepared to explain to your neighbors why there’s a coop next to your recycling bin—and why you’re suddenly so proud of breakfast.