Chicken Coop Size Calculator
Enter your flock size and bird type to see the coop, run, and nesting-box space you need.
Interior coop space24 sq ft
Outdoor run space60 sq ft
Nesting boxes2
Rule of thumb
4 sq ft indoor + 8–10 sq ft run per standard bird, and one nesting box per 3–4 hens.
How we calculate it
Indoor = birds × 4 sq ft (standard breed). Run = birds × 8 to 10 sq ft. Nesting boxes = 1 per 3 to 4 hens.
Based on:
- Indoor space guidelines run about 2 to 4 sq ft per standard bird (Poultry Extension)
- An outdoor run of about 5 to 10 sq ft per bird (Penn State Extension)
- General housing and space guidance for backyard flocks (UGA Extension)
Figures are typical guidelines for planning. Your birds, breed, climate, and feed will vary.
Frequently asked questions
How much space does a chicken need in a coop?
Standard-size hens need about 4 sq ft of interior coop space each, plus 8–10 sq ft each in an outdoor run. Bantams need less; large breeds like Brahmas need more.
How big should the run be?
Aim for at least 8–10 sq ft of run per standard bird. More is always better, since crowded runs lead to bullying, feather-picking, and disease.
How many nesting boxes do I need?
One nesting box per 3–4 hens is the standard rule. Hens tend to share favorite boxes, so you rarely need one each.