Why are eggs so expensive?
Egg prices fluctuate by store and location, but they have been climbing steadily. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. was $4.146 in December 2024, up from $2.507 in December 2023 — a staggering 65% increase in just a year.
A Jan. 17 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) report highlighted that a bird flu outbreak has impacted supply: “Outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in commercial table egg layer flocks that resulted in the depopulation of 13.2 million birds in December 2024 continue into the opening weeks of 2025.”
With fewer hens producing eggs — and demand peaking during the holiday season — prices spiked. The USDA report explained, “Losses during the final month of 2024 during the peak shell egg demand period resulted in record-high wholesale and retail prices as producers struggled to provide a consistent supply to consumers.”
Beyond supply and demand, inflation has also played a role in rising egg costs. USA Today reported that higher prices for gas, labor and animal feed have increased the cost of getting eggs onto store shelves.
Policy changes may also be a factor. In California, for example, Proposition 12 imposes restrictions on how egg-laying hens, breeding pigs and veal calves can be housed, potentially affecting supply and pricing.
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Learn MoreInflation is still biting — but you can fight back
While some economists have declared victory in America’s battle against inflation, the viral TikTok video serves as a stark reminder that consumers are still feeling the pinch on everyday essentials.
And eggs aren’t the only item straining household budgets. Although the inflation rate has eased from the peaks of 2022, the cost of necessities remains stubbornly high.
For example, the food index from the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has jumped 28% since the beginning of 2020, while the shelter index has climbed 26% over the same period.
Inflation eats away at the purchasing power of money. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis’s inflation calculator, $100 in 2024 had the same purchasing power as $82.31 in 2020 — a stark illustration of how much more consumers are paying for the same goods and services.
Fortunately, history has shown that savvy investors and consumers can take steps to protect themselves from inflation’s impact.
Real estate
When inflation rises, property values often increase as well, reflecting the higher costs of materials, labor and land. At the same time, rental income tends to go up, providing landlords with a revenue stream that adjusts for inflation.
This combination makes real estate an attractive option for preserving and growing wealth when the U.S. dollar is losing its value.
Over the last five years, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has surged by more than 50%.
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With Arrived, you can invest in shares of rental homes with as little as $100 without worrying about mowing lawns, fixing leaky faucets or handling difficult tenants.
The process is simple: browse a curated selection of homes that have been vetted for their appreciation and income potential.
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Gold
When it comes to preserving wealth and fighting inflation, few assets have stood the test of time like gold.
The appeal of gold is straightforward: the yellow metal can’t be printed in unlimited quantities by central banks like fiat money. And because its value isn’t tied to any one currency or economy, gold could provide protection during periods of economic uncertainty.
As inflation erodes the purchasing power of paper currencies, gold’s appeal as a stable store of value often grows, driving up demand. In 2024, gold prices surged by 26%, surpassing $2,600 per ounce.
Gold can’t be printed out of thin air like fiat money, and its value is largely unaffected by economic events around the world.
And because of the precious metal’s safe-haven status, investors often rush toward it in times of crisis, making it an effective hedge.
These days, you don’t even have to go to a bullion shop to buy precious metals. There are plenty of online platforms that offer a wide selection of gold and silver bars and coins and fair pricing.
Additionally, you can combine the recession-resistant nature of gold with the tax benefits of an IRA by opening a gold IRA.
Maximizing your spending power with the right credit card
When faced with high egg prices, Tommy quipped, “Just bring your credit card.” While it was meant as a joke, the reality is that the right credit card that rewards your everyday spending can help you manage the weight of inflation.
For example, if you’re paying more for groceries, a cash-back credit card that offers rewards on supermarket purchases can help offset those higher costs. Similarly, if travel expenses are climbing, a travel rewards card can help you earn points or miles to reduce future expenses.
With so many credit card options out there, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. But with CardRatings, it’s quick, easy and personalized. Whether you’re after cash back, travel rewards, a low APR or zero annual fees, CardFinder matches you with the best offers from leading providers.
Take the guesswork out of credit card shopping — let CardRatings find your perfect match and recommend a card that maximizes your rewards, savings and benefits — all tailored to you.
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