Best egg laying chickens.
Not all chickens are created equal when it comes to egg-laying! Some breeds, like Leghorns and Golden Comets, are egg-laying machines, cranking out 300+ eggs per year. Others, like Easter Eggers, may lay fewer eggs but offer gorgeous blue and green hues that make every egg collection feel like a treasure hunt!
Temperament also varies—Buff Orpingtons and Australorps are incredibly friendly and love human interaction, while breeds like Rhode Island Reds can be more independent (and sometimes a little bossy in the flock).
Even their care requirements differ—some breeds handle extreme cold like champs, while others need extra protection in winter. Knowing these differences ahead of time helps you build a flock that fits your needs without surprises!
My Experience with Backyard Chickens and Why Breed Selection Is Key
Growing up, my “backyard” wasn’t what most people imagine—it was a dense forest! Our actual homestead sat on a hilltop, overlooking a beautiful orchard valley, with our front yard as the main space for everything, including our animals. Raising chickens in that kind of setting taught me a lot about how different breeds handle unique environments.
The sheep and rams were actually on the hilltop forest behind our home. They had plenty of munches to forage and roam the forest. They also had plenty of shelter in their pens dad made for them.
However, having sheep roam a forest is technically not a great idea because their wool would become covered with twigs and all kinds of foresty stuff! But this post is not about them. As much as I want to talk about sheep, let’s get back to chickens since that is why you are here in the first place!
Why the Right Breed Matters for Your Flock’s Success for Best Egg Laying Chickens
Some chickens thrived in the open space, while others preferred staying close to the coop. I quickly learned that picking the right breed wasn’t just about how many eggs they laid—it was about their temperament, hardiness, and how well they fit into my specific setup.
That’s why I always emphasize choosing the best breed for your lifestyle, climate, and needs—it makes all the difference in having a happy, productive flock!
What You Can Expect from This Guide for Best Egg Laying Chickens
In this guide, I’m going to break down the best egg-laying chicken breeds so you can choose the perfect fit for your backyard flock. Whether you want high-production layers, colorful egg varieties, or sweet, family-friendly hens, I’ll cover it all.
You’ll also learn how to keep your hens happy and laying all year long, plus my personal recommendations based on real-life experience. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking the best breeds for your homestead—no guesswork needed! Let’s get started and find the perfect chickens for you and me!
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My Top Picks: The Best Egg-Laying Breeds for a Reliable Flock
Overview of the Best Layers and Why I Love Them
After years of raising chickens while growing up, I’ve found that some breeds stand out as egg-laying powerhouses. If you want a steady supply of fresh eggs, breeds like Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, Buff Orpingtons, Australorps, and Golden Comets are top choices. These hens consistently lay 250-320 eggs per year, giving you a reliable source of food straight from your backyard.
But what I love most isn’t just the number of eggs—it’s the personality that comes with each breed. Buff Orpingtons, for example, are fluffy, friendly, and practically beg to be picked up. Australorps are calm and incredibly cold-hardy, making them perfect for unpredictable weather. And Easter Eggers? They bring the fun of colorful eggs, which always makes collecting them feel like an Easter morning surprise.
Each breed has its own charm, and finding the right mix for your flock makes chicken-keeping even more enjoyable.
Factors I Consider When Choosing the Best Egg Laying Chickens
When choosing chickens for my flock, I don’t just look at egg numbers—I consider three key factors: egg production, hardiness, and personality.
Quality Egg Production
First, I want a breed that lays well, especially if I’m relying on my chickens for food.
Hardy Climate Breeds
But laying ability isn’t everything. My flock also needs to be hardy enough to handle the heat of summer and the bitter cold of winter without too much fuss. That’s why I avoid delicate breeds that need constant pampering.
Family Friendly Breeds
Lastly, I think about temperament—some chickens are social and love human interaction, while others are more independent or even a little bossy. Since I enjoy spending time with my chickens, I lean toward friendly breeds like Buff Orpingtons and Australorps.
Choosing the right combination of these traits ensures I have a happy, low-maintenance, and productive flock all year round!
The Heavy Hitters: Chickens That Lay the Most Eggs
Leghorn – The Egg Machine (320+ Eggs Per Year)
If you want a hen that lays eggs like clockwork, the Leghorn is your girl! These sleek, active birds are true egg machines, producing 320+ large white eggs per year with incredible consistency. What I love about Leghorns is their efficiency—they don’t eat as much feed as heavier breeds, yet they still outlay most other chickens.
They’re also hardy and can adapt to different climates, but they do tend to be more independent and flighty. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, high-production layer and don’t mind a chicken that prefers to keep her distance, Leghorns are an excellent choice for any serious egg producer.
Golden Comet – A Hybrid Powerhouse (300+ Eggs Per Year)
Golden Comets are one of my absolute favorite breeds for egg production! These hybrid hens were specifically bred to lay an impressive 300+ brown eggs per year, and they start laying earlier than most other breeds. But what really makes them special is their personality—they’re incredibly friendly, calm, and easy to handle, making them a perfect choice for beginners or anyone who loves hands-on chicken keeping.
They thrive in both hot and cold weather, require minimal care, and have a sweet, docile nature. If you want a dependable egg-layer that’s also a joy to have around, you can’t go wrong with Golden Comets.
Isa Brown – A Prolific Layer (300-350 Eggs Per Year)
When it comes to pure egg production, Isa Browns are hard to beat. These hybrid hens can lay 300-350 large brown eggs per year, making them one of the most prolific layers out there. What I love most about Isa Browns is their gentle and affectionate personality—they love human interaction and are super easy to care for.
They’re also incredibly hardy and adaptable, doing well in both backyard coops and free-range setups. If you’re looking for a breed that combines high egg output, low maintenance, and a sweet disposition, Isa Browns is a fantastic choice for any flock.
Heritage Breeds That Pull Their Weight for Best Egg Laying Chickens
Rhode Island Red – Tough and Productive (250-300 Eggs Per Year)
If there’s one breed that can handle just about anything, it’s the Rhode Island Red. These hardy, no-fuss birds are some of the best all-around layers, producing 250-300 brown eggs per year while thriving in both hot summers and freezing winters. What I love about Rhode Island Reds is their resilience—they’re independent, excellent foragers, and don’t mind a little chaos in the coop.
That said, they do have a bold personality and can sometimes be a bit bossy with other hens. If you want a low-maintenance, highly productive bird that can take care of itself and still keep the egg basket full, Rhode Island Reds are a solid choice.
Australorp – The World Record Holder (250-300 Eggs Per Year)
The Australorp holds a special place in my flock, not just because of their striking black feathers with a beautiful green sheen, but because they’re record-breaking egg layers. In fact, one Australorp once laid 364 eggs in a single year—that’s practically an egg a day! While most will produce 250-300 eggs per year, that’s still an impressive amount.
What I love about Australorps is their calm, friendly nature—they’re one of the sweetest, most docile breeds I’ve raised, making them great for families or first-time chicken keepers. Plus, they handle cold weather like champs, so if you live in a place with harsh winters, Australorps are a fantastic addition to your flock.
Sussex – Dual-Purpose and Reliable (250+ Eggs Per Year)
If you’re looking for a dependable layer that also makes a great meat bird, the Sussex is a breed worth considering. These beautiful, speckled birds lay 250+ large eggs per year, and they have one of the most easygoing temperaments of any chicken breed. What I love about Sussex hens is how curious and friendly they are—they love to follow me around the yard, always hoping for a snack.
They’re also fantastic foragers, making them a great choice for free-ranging. Hardy in both heat and cold, Sussex chickens are an excellent dual-purpose breed that fits into just about any backyard setup.
Unique Layers: Chickens That Lay Colorful Eggs
Easter Egger – The Surprise Egg Basket (Blue, Green, Pink Eggs)
If you love a little mystery in your egg basket, Easter Eggers are the perfect addition to your flock! These quirky, lovable chickens lay beautiful eggs in shades of blue, green, pink, and even olive, and you never know exactly what color you’ll get until they start laying!
While they aren’t an official breed, Easter Eggers are hardy, low-maintenance, and lay around 200-250 eggs per year. What I love most about them is their fun, curious personalities—they’re some of the friendliest, most entertaining chickens I’ve ever raised. Plus, their fluffy cheeks and unique feather patterns make them absolutely adorable! If you want to add some color and personality to your backyard flock, Easter Eggers are a must-have!
Ameraucana – Beautiful Blue Eggs (200-250 Eggs Per Year)
If you’ve ever wanted a steady supply of stunning sky-blue eggs, the Ameraucana is the breed for you! Unlike Easter Eggers, Ameraucanas are a pure breed, meaning they will always lay blue eggs—no surprises. They produce around 200-250 eggs per year, making them a solid layer, but what really makes them stand out is their gorgeous beard and muffs, which give them a fluffy, owl-like appearance.
I’ve always loved Ameraucanas for their calm yet independent nature—they aren’t as cuddly as some other breeds, but they’re friendly and great at foraging. If you’re looking for a beautiful bird with unique eggs and an easygoing personality, Ameraucanas are a fantastic choice.
Marans – The Chocolate Egg Layer (200-250 Eggs Per Year)
There’s something special about collecting rich, dark chocolate-colored eggs, and no breed does it better than the Marans! These elegant birds lay 200-250 eggs per year, with some producing eggs so dark they look like they’ve been dipped in cocoa. What I love about Marans is that they’re not just about the eggs—they’re also gentle, quiet, and easy to care for.
They do well in both cold and warm climates, and their beautiful feathering, especially in the Black Copper Marans variety, makes them a standout in any flock. If you want a breed that adds both beauty and a touch of luxury to your egg basket, Marans are an excellent pick!
Factors That Affect Egg Production (And How to Maximize It) for Best Egg Laying Chickens
The Role of Nutrition in Keeping Hens Productive
If you want a steady supply of eggs, nutrition is everything. I’ve learned that what my hens eat directly affects how well they lay. A balanced diet with at least 16% protein keeps them in top laying shape, while extra calcium (like crushed oyster shells) ensures strong eggshells.
I also like to mix in kitchen scraps and garden greens for variety, but I’m careful to avoid things like onions, chocolate, and avocado, which can be harmful. When my hens get the right nutrition, their eggs are bigger, their shells are stronger, and they stay happy and healthy—so it’s definitely worth paying attention to what’s in their feed.
Seasonal Changes and Why Hens Slow Down in Winter
The first time my hens stopped laying in winter when I was growing up, I panicked! Were they sick? Stressed? However, after my parents explained to me what was happening, I learned that shorter daylight hours naturally slow down egg production. Chickens need around 14-16 hours of light per day to lay consistently, so when winter hits, they take a break.
Some people add artificial lighting to their coops, but I usually let my girls follow their natural cycle—this gives their bodies a well-deserved rest and helps them lay strong, healthy eggs when spring returns. Besides, eggs can stay fresh on the counter for months if they are unwashed, so the last of the season can last me a fairly good time. Besides, I can live without eggs for a few short months!
Proper Housing, Space, and Stress-Free Environments
Happy hens lay more eggs, and I’ve seen firsthand how much a comfortable, low-stress environment makes a difference. Chickens need at least 3-4 square feet of space per bird inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in the run to stay content. If they’re overcrowded or stressed, egg production drops fast.
I also make sure their nesting boxes are clean, private, and cozy because no hen wants to lay eggs in a chaotic or dirty space. Keeping predators away, reducing loud noises, and ensuring they have plenty of fresh air and sunshine all help keep them relaxed and laying consistently.
Why Age Matters and How Long Chickens Lay Consistently
I always tell new chicken keepers: don’t expect eggs forever from the same hens. Chickens lay the most eggs in their first two years, and after that, production slowly declines. By the time they reach 5-7 years old, many will only lay occasionally. That doesn’t mean older hens aren’t valuable—I keep some around for pest control and composting benefits—but if egg production is the goal, planning for younger replacements every couple of years is key. I rotate in new pullets so my flock stays productive, while still letting my older girls enjoy a well-earned retirement.
My Personal Recommendations: Which Breed Is Right for You and Me?
Best Breeds for Beginners – And Why I Still Consider Myself One for Best Egg Laying Chickens
Even though I helped raise chickens as a kid on our homestead, I still consider myself a beginner in many ways. There’s always something new to learn! If you’re just starting out, I recommend hardy, low-maintenance breeds that are easy to care for and forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Buff Orpingtons, Australorps, and Rhode Island Reds are all great choices—they’re reliable layers, friendly, and not too fussy about their environment. Even if you’ve had chickens before, choosing beginner-friendly breeds makes the whole experience smoother, especially if life gets busy (and it always does!).
Best Breeds for Hot and Cold Climates – Surviving Utah’s Extremes
Living in northern Utah means dealing with scorching summers and freezing winters, so I need chickens that can handle both.
Cold-Hardy Chicken Breeds
Cold-hardy breeds have thick feathers and can keep laying through winter with proper care.
- Australorp – Thick feathers, great egg production, and calm temperament.
- Buff Orpington – Super fluffy, friendly, and excellent winter layers.
- Plymouth Rock – Hardy, dependable, and lays well in cold weather.
- Wyandotte – Dense feathering, small comb (less frostbite risk), and cold-tolerant.
- Rhode Island Red – Tough, dual-purpose, and keeps laying through winter.
- Sussex – Heavy-bodied, cold-resistant, and friendly.
- Brahma – Large size, feathered feet, and one of the most winter-hardy breeds.
- Chantecler – Specifically bred for cold climates, small combs, and fluffy plumage.
- Dominique – Hardy heritage breed with a rose comb that resists frostbite.
These breeds handle snow, freezing temperatures, and shorter daylight hours better than others. Just make sure they have a dry, draft-free coop, plenty of food and water, and extra bedding in the winter months!
Heat-Tolerant Chicken Breeds
For the hot months, I look for heat-tolerant breeds that have lighter body frames and large combs to help them stay cool.
- Leghorn – Lightweight body, large comb for cooling, and lays tons of eggs.
- Easter Egger – Hardy in both hot and cold weather, plus colorful eggs!
- Welsummer – Heat-tolerant, friendly, and lays gorgeous dark brown eggs.
- Ancona – Active, alert, and handles heat well due to its small body size.
- Minorca – Large comb and wattles help with heat regulation.
More Heat Tolerant Chicken Breeds!
- White-Faced Black Spanish – Built for the heat, with striking white faces and black feathers.
- Sumatra – Sleek, active, and naturally adapted to hot weather.
- Catalana – Originated in Spain, thrives in hot, dry climates, and lays well.
- Egyptian Fayoumi – Originally from Egypt, extremely heat-resistant and disease-resistant.
Lighter-bodied breeds with large combs, light-colored feathers, and active foraging habits tend to handle the heat best. Keep them cool with shade, fresh water, dust baths, and frozen treats during extreme summer temperatures!
Best Dual-Climate Chicken Breeds (Cold & Heat Hardy)
If you live in a place with extreme weather like I do, picking the right breed can make all the difference in keeping your flock happy and productive year-round. Therefore, if you need chickens that can handle both extreme heat and freezing cold, these versatile, all-weather breeds are the best choices:
- Australorp – Thick feathers for winter, but does well in heat with shade and water.
- Easter Egger – Hardy in all seasons, plus fun-colored eggs!
- Plymouth Rock – Cold-resistant yet adaptable to hot summers.
- Rhode Island Red – Tough, productive, and handles temperature swings well.
- Sussex – Heavy-bodied for winter, but active enough to stay cool in summer.
- Wyandotte – Small comb reduces frostbite risk, but can handle heat with good airflow.
- Orpington – Fluffy and winter-hardy, but does fine in heat with shade and cool water.
- Dominique – Hardy, adaptable, and naturally good at regulating body temperature.
- Welsummer – Handles both extremes with ease and lays beautiful dark brown eggs.
These breeds are hardy, adaptable, and great for year-round egg production, no matter the season. Just make sure to adjust their care—extra bedding and wind protection in winter, plenty of shade, and fresh water in summer!
Best Breeds for a Friendly, Family-Friendly Flock for Best Egg Laying Chickens
As I get closer to the grandparent era, I find myself wanting a flock full of friendly, docile hens—the kind that will come running when they see me and let little hands collect eggs without a fuss!
Buff Orpingtons, Sussex, and Cochins are some of the best breeds for a family-friendly flock. They’re gentle, love attention, and don’t mind being held, which makes them great for kids (and, let’s be honest, for me too!). There’s something special about having chickens that not only provide eggs but also become part of the family!
My Favorite Chicken Breed!
The Buff Orpington!
When it comes to backyard chickens, I wanted a breed that was not only a great egg producer, but also sweet-natured and easy to care for. That’s why the Buff Orpington quickly became my favorite! These fluffy golden beauties are some of the friendliest chickens you’ll ever meet, always waddling up for attention and happy to be held.
They lay 250-280 large brown eggs per year, making them a reliable choice for any homestead. Plus, they’re tough enough to handle both hot summers and freezing winters, which is a must for me. Whether they’re free-ranging or hanging out in the coop, Buff Orpingtons are laid-back, gentle, and the perfect mix of adorable and practical.
Why I Love Buff Orpingtons for Best Egg Laying Chickens
- Fluffy & Adorable – They have soft, beautiful golden feathers and a round, plump shape.
- Super Friendly – They love human interaction and are known as the “golden retrievers” of the chicken world.
- High Egg Production – They lay about 250-280 large brown eggs per year!
- Cold & Heat Hardy – Their thick feathers keep them warm in winter, and they handle summer heat well with shade and water.
- Easy to Care For – They aren’t flighty, do well in confinement or free-range, and are beginner-friendly.
Learn More About My Backyard Chicken Coop!
If you’re ready to create the perfect home for your flock, check out My Ultimate Backyard Chicken Coop Plans for Happy Hens! I share everything you need to know about building a safe, comfortable, and predator-proof coop that keeps your chickens happy and laying plenty of eggs. From space requirements to ventilation tips, this guide will help you design a coop that works in any backyard. Read more here!
My Ultimate Backyard Chicken Coop Plans for Happy Hens!
Conclusion: Build Your Own Dream Egg-Laying Flock!
Encouragement to Mix and Match Breeds for Variety
One of the best things about raising backyard chickens is that you don’t have to stick to just one breed! I love having a mix of different breeds in my flock because it adds so much personality, color, and variety—not just in their looks, but also in their eggs.
Some chickens are egg-laying machines, while others are a little more laid-back but make up for it with their sweet personalities. Mixing cold-hardy and heat-tolerant breeds also ensures that I have reliable egg production all year long.
Plus, who doesn’t love opening an egg basket filled with white, brown, blue, green, and even dark chocolate-colored eggs? If you’re building your flock, don’t be afraid to mix and match!
Final Tips for Happy, Healthy Hens!
No matter what breeds you choose, keeping your hens happy and healthy should be your top priority. Fresh water, high-quality feed, and a secure, well-ventilated coop are the foundation of a thriving flock. I also make sure to give my girls plenty of space to roam, dust bathe, and forage—happy chickens are productive chickens!
Keeping an eye on their health, watching for any signs of stress or illness, and making small seasonal adjustments (like extra bedding in winter or frozen treats in summer) will go a long way in ensuring they stay strong and keep laying. When you take good care of your hens, they’ll take good care of you in return!
Now I want to hear from you! What are your favorite egg-laying breeds? Do you prefer the classic powerhouse layers like Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds, or do you love having colorful egg layers like Easter Eggers and Marans?
Maybe you have a sweet, fluffy Orpington who follows you around the yard! Drop a comment and share your experiences—I’d love to hear about your flock and what breeds have worked best for you. Let’s swap chicken stories!
Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.
- Guide to the Best Egg Laying Chickens for the Backyard – By Little House Living
- The 10 Best Egg Laying Chicken Breeds – By Grubbly Farms
- The Best Chickens for Laying Eggs – By Artful Homemaking
1. What is the best chicken breed for the most eggs?
Leghorns are one of the top egg producers, laying 320+ eggs per year. Golden Comets and Isa Browns are also prolific layers, producing 300+ eggs annually.
2. Which chicken breed is best for beginners?
If you’re new to raising chickens, Australorps, Rhode Island Reds, and Buff Orpingtons are great choices. They’re hardy, friendly, and easy to care for.
3. Do different breeds lay different colored eggs?
Yes! Leghorns lay white eggs, Rhode Island Reds lay brown eggs, and Easter Eggers lay blue, green, or pink eggs. If you want a variety, mix different breeds in your flock.
4. How long do chickens lay eggs?
Most chickens lay consistently for 2-3 years, with production slowing after that. However, some heritage breeds, like Australorps and Sussex, can lay for 5+ years, just at a lower rate.
Summary
I hope I have inspired you to enjoy a backyard chicken coop with these tips and products.
If you were encouraged by this post, I invite you to check out my FREE Printables Page for fun free printables, planners, and charts.
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Here are some more of my backyard chicken coop inspiration posts to check out!
My Ultimate Backyard Chicken Coop Plans for Happy Hens!
How to Build a Backyard Homestead
Blessings,
The Off Grid Barefoot Girl
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