How Big Should Your Chicken House Be for 6, 10, or 20 Chickens?

So, you’ve finally decided to raise chickens? Good call! Nothing beats the joy of collecting fresh eggs every morning or hearing that happy cluck-cluck in your backyard.

But before you start sketching plans and hammering nails, one question always comes up:

How big should the chicken house be?

Getting this right is just as important as learning how to build a chicken house in the first place.

Why Space Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be honest — chickens need their space just like we do. Pack them too tightly, and they get stressed, which affects both their health and egg production.

Here’s the basic rule most backyard chicken keepers follow:

• 3–4 square feet per chicken inside the coop, and

• 8–10 square feet per chicken in the outdoor run.

That said, your exact setup depends on your climate, breed, and how often your flock gets to roam.

For 6 Chickens 

Starting small? Perfect. Six hens are a sweet, manageable number.

You’ll need about 18–24 square feet inside the coop — think 4x6 ft or 5x6 ft. For the outdoor run, aim for at least 60 square feet.

A taller design can help you save ground space, as long as it’s well-ventilated. Chickens love roosting high up, so add a few perches at different levels. Keep things simple — clean, dry, and airy always beats fancy.

For 10 Chickens 

Now we’re talking! Ten chickens need about 30–40 square feet inside the coop — something like 5x8 ft or 6x7 ft works nicely.

The run should be around 80–100 square feet minimum.

Here’s the thing — once you hit double digits, the mess doubles too. Plan for easy cleaning. A slightly raised coop with a removable floor tray or a swing-open side door can save hours. Trust us, your future self will thank you.

For 20 Chickens 

At this point, you’re basically running a mini farm.

You’ll need about 60–80 square feet inside the coop — think 8x10 ft or even 10x10 ft if space allows. For the outdoor run, go for 200 square feet or more.

Ventilation becomes even more important now. Keep moisture out to prevent respiratory issues. Also, plan for one nesting box per 4–5 hens and plenty of roosting bars — no one likes sleeping shoulder-to-shoulder every night!

Bonus Tip: Comfort Counts

A few thoughtful touches can make a huge difference.

Add a small dust bath area, a shaded corner, or a window for sunlight. Happy chickens lay better eggs — it’s that simple. Some people even sprinkle dried herbs or lavender inside the coop for a fresh, calming scent.

And don’t overlook creativity. You can build beautiful coops using recycled wood, old pallets, or leftover fencing. It saves money and gives your setup a rustic, one-of-a-kind feel.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the right chicken house size depends on three things:

• How many chickens you plan to keep

• How often they roam outside

• And what kind of climate you live in

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect coop — just one that’s safe, roomy, and easy to maintain. Start small, grow as you go, and before long, you’ll have the happiest flock in the neighborhood.

And if you love hands-on projects like this, check out a few DIY home improvement efficiency hacks — because once you start building, it’s hard to stop.