Between the bird flu and all the supply chain crap, the price of eggs is getting ridiculous. So if you’re trying not to blow your grocery budget, this guide’s got some ways to get eggs for free or cheap—and if you’re totally over eggs, I found a bunch of cool swaps that’ll do just fine.

1. Raise Backyard Chickens

If you’ve got the space — even a small backyard — a few hens can supply your household with a steady stream of eggs. Most breeds lay 4–6 eggs per week (except in the winter), so even three chickens can easily provide a dozen weekly.

Start-Up Needs: You’ll need a coop (build your own or buy one), bedding, feeders, and water containers. Costs vary, but many people DIY with scrap wood or repurpose old dog houses.

Feed Costs: Expect to spend around $15–$25 per month on feed for a small flock.

Extras: Chickens also love food scraps, which can help reduce your feed bill.

Legal Notes: Always check your city’s rules — some areas allow hens but not roosters, or limit the number of birds you can keep.

While there’s an upfront cost, it pays off over time — especially if you’re already spending $5+ a dozen on eggs. Plus, you’ll get fresher eggs and maybe even a few smiles from your feathery friends.

PRO TIP: CONTACT LOCAL 4-H OR FFA CLUBS

Youth agricultural programs like 4-H or Future Farmers of America (FFA) often raise chickens as part of their school or project work.

Sometimes they end up with surplus eggs they’re happy to give away or sell cheap to the community — especially after fair season or school breaks.

Reach out to your local extension office or ag teacher and politely ask if they know anyone with extra eggs.

2. Trade or Barter with Neighbors

A lot of people who raise chickens have more eggs than they can use.

If you know someone with hens, see if they’d be open to a trade.

Most backyard chicken owners are happy to exchange eggs for something useful:

– Homemade bread or baked goods

– Extra veggies from your garden

– Help around their yard or pet-sitting while they’re away

– Kitchen scraps (many chicken owners appreciate this!)

Check local groups like Facebook Marketplace, Buy Nothing, or Nextdoor — people often post about egg swaps or freebies. Even a post saying, “Looking to trade something small for eggs” can spark a deal.

See Also: Insider Grocery Secrets: How to Pay Less Than Everyone Else

3. Visit Food Pantries or Church Distributions

If you’re experiencing a tough month (and who hasn’t?), don’t overlook your local food bank, church pantry, or community center.

Many pantries partner with local farms or grocery stores to distribute eggs, especially near the holidays.

Some offer “perishable days” with fresh foods like milk, cheese, and eggs.

Churches often run food programs or weekend breakfast events that include egg dishes — and some send folks home with groceries.

Call ahead or check their website to see what’s available. There’s no shame in getting a little help — that’s what these resources are for.

PRO TIP: RETURN EGG CARTONS FOR A DISCOUNT

If you buy eggs at the farmers market or from a backyard seller, returning empty egg cartons can sometimes get you a discount — or an extra egg or two.

Farmers love not having to buy new cartons. Bonus: It makes you a “preferred” customer they’ll remember.

4. Join a CSA or Food Co-op

CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs often include eggs in their weekly farm boxes, or they offer an “egg add-on” at a discount if you’re already subscribing to produce. It’s not free, but the price per dozen is usually better than buying them from the store — and you’re supporting local farmers.

Many CSAs run on a seasonal basis and offer payment plans or accept SNAP.

Food co-ops may also offer lower-priced eggs to members, especially if they buy in bulk.

Some allow work-trade options — volunteer a few hours a month and get a discount on your groceries, including eggs.

If there’s a local co-op in your area, check out their member perks — it might pay off quickly.

5. Use Coupon & Cashback Apps

Apps like Ibotta, Fetch, and Checkout 51 are great for earning money back on groceries — and eggs are often on their lists.

How It Works: Activate offers in the app, buy the item at a store, then scan your receipt to earn cash back.

Tip: Stack this with store sales or coupons for even bigger savings.

Example: If eggs are $5.99/dozen and you get $1 back from Ibotta, you’ve only paid $4.99 — or less if you had a coupon, too.

Even better? Sometimes these apps run promos with completely free eggs, especially around the holidays or when prices are high.

PRO TIP: USE IBOTTA’S “ANY BRAND” OFFER

Ibotta and similar apps often give rebates for “any brand of eggs”.

Pair this with store-brand eggs on sale (like Aldi’s or Walmart’s), and you could end up paying next to nothing — or even make a profit if there’s a stackable in-store coupon.

See Also: How to Find Hidden Clearance Deals at Walmart

6. Shop at Discount Grocery Stores

If you’re not already shopping at places like Aldi, Lidl, Grocery Outlet, or Save-A-Lot, now’s the time.

These discount grocery stores often carry the same eggs (or better quality) for far less than traditional supermarkets.

You might also find clearance markdowns on eggs nearing their “sell by” date — which are still good for weeks when refrigerated properly.

At warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club, the per-egg price is usually lower if you’re okay buying in bulk (e.g., 2 dozen at a time).

Watch for weekly flyers, and when prices dip, grab a couple of cartons and store them safely (eggs keep well for 3–5 weeks in the fridge).

PRO TIP: GET CREATIVE AT DISCOUNT STORES

Discount stores don’t play by the rules — and that’s your advantage. Skip the flyer and head straight to the weird, half-stocked fridge section.

Look for off-brand eggs, random farm labels, or “manager’s special” stickers.

If you see a price that looks wrong, it’s probably right — grab first, question later. At places like Grocery Outlet, the egg deals don’t wait for you. They vanish.

7. Visit Farmers Markets Late in the Day

If you like supporting local farmers but think farmers markets are too pricey — go later in the day.

As vendors are packing up, they may be willing to cut deals to avoid taking perishables back home.

You can simply ask, “Any deals on eggs today?” or “Would you do $X for two dozen?” — a polite ask never hurts.

Some sellers will even toss in an extra egg or two if you’re a regular.

And a bonus: farm eggs are often fresher and tastier than store-bought.

PRO TIP: ASK ABOUT DAMAGED CARTONS

Many stores will discount or even give away egg cartons that have one or two broken eggs.

Just ask the dairy manager: “Do you ever have any cracked cartons you’re marking down?” You can salvage the good eggs and toss the broken ones.

Bring a clean container to safely transport the good ones home.

8. Use SNAP or WIC Benefits for Eggs

If you qualify for SNAP (EBT) or WIC benefits, eggs are an eligible item.

SNAP cards work just like debit cards at any grocery store — and eggs are often one of the cheapest sources of protein per dollar.

Some farmers markets accept EBT and even offer “Double Bucks” programs, where your SNAP dollars go further.

WIC participants (especially breastfeeding moms and kids over 1) often get free eggs as part of their monthly food packages.

If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, check with your local health department or visit Benefits.gov to get started.

PRO TIP: FREEZE EGGS DURING SALES

When eggs are really cheap (especially around Easter or Christmas), stock up and freeze them.

Crack them into ice cube trays or small containers, beat lightly, and freeze for later use in baking or cooking.

They’ll last for up to a year and save you from paying full price when prices go up again.

9. Take Advantage of Holiday Sales

Grocery stores often run deep discounts on eggs before major holidays — especially:

– Easter (for dyeing and baking)

– Thanksgiving (for baking pies, casseroles)

– Christmas and New Year’s (lots of baking, brunches, and parties)

Watch for flyers from your favorite stores in the weeks leading up. You can also sign up for store apps or newsletters to get alerts.

Eggs can often drop to half their usual price or even less — a great time to stock up.

10. Just Ask

Don’t underestimate the power of simply asking around.

Whether it’s a friend with a CSA box, a coworker who raises hens, or someone in your neighborhood group — eggs are a common surplus.

You might post something like:

“Anyone have backyard chickens and too many eggs? Happy to trade or pick up extras!”

You’d be surprised how often someone’s happy to help.

And Now 10 Egg Alternatives (That Actually Work!)

Whether you’re out of eggs, avoiding them due to allergies, or following a plant-based diet, these alternatives can save the day.

These swaps work best depending on whether you’re baking, binding, or frying.

1. Applesauce

Uses: Baking (muffins, cakes, brownies)

Ratio: ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce = 1 egg

Flavor Impact: Applesauce is perfect for sweet baked goods but not ideal for savory dishes or recipes where eggs need to bind or fry. Stick to muffins, cakes, and brownies where a little extra moisture and sweetness are a bonus.

2. Flaxseed Meal

Uses: Baking and binding (cookies, pancakes)

Ratio: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg

Why It Works: Creates a gel-like consistency perfect for holding things together.

PRO TIP: BE PATIENT AND LET IT SIT

Flaxseed is a go-to for binding in recipes like pancakes, waffles, and veggie burgers.

Just be sure to let the mixture sit for a few minutes so it can gel properly—this mimics the texture of an egg and helps hold everything together.

3. Chia Seeds

Uses: Similar to flax (pancakes, muffins)

Ratio: 1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg

Bonus: Adds fiber and omega-3s.

4. Mashed Banana

Uses: Baking (banana bread, pancakes, cookies)

Ratio: ¼ cup mashed banana = 1 egg

Best For: Sweet recipes—adds flavor and moisture.

PRO TIP: THE BANANA HACK IS REAL

From longtime blog reader, Tina, she told me the following….”I once ran out of eggs mid-banana bread and thought, “Well… bananas are already in here…” I used an extra mashed one as a swap, and honestly? It turned out even more moist and flavorful.”

Now she told me that she does it on purpose. She also added, “Just remember—mashed banana adds sweetness and that classic banana flavor, so it works best in baked goods where that vibe fits.”

5. Silken Tofu

Uses: Quiches, custards, creamy recipes

Ratio: ¼ cup blended silken tofu = 1 egg

Texture: Smooth, neutral taste.

6. Yogurt (or Non-Dairy Yogurt)

Uses: Cakes, muffins, and quick breads.

Ratio: ¼ cup = 1 egg

Tip: Choose plain for neutral flavor; Greek-style gives richer texture.

7. Commercial Egg Replacers

Brands: Bob’s Red Mill, Ener-G, JUST Egg (liquid).

Uses: Versatile—good for baking, scrambling, and more.

How to Use: Follow package directions for 1 egg equivalent.

PRO TIP: EGG REPLACERS IN VEGAN COOKIES

This personal antidote comes from Maria, a longtime reader, “I was skeptical of boxed egg replacers at first—how could a powder do the job of an egg? But after using one in a batch of cookies for a vegan friend, I was shocked at how well they held together. No weird taste, no crumbly mess.”

She also added that “these replacers are super reliable for baking and binding. Just follow the package instructions as they’re usually spot-on.”

8. Aquafaba

What It Is: The liquid from a can of chickpeas.

Uses: Meringues, mousse, or recipes needing whipped egg whites.

Ratio: 3 tbsp aquafaba = 1 egg

Surprising Perk: Whips just like egg whites when beaten.

See Also: 24 Clever Tips to Save BIG at the Grocery Store

9. Nut Butter

Uses: Brownies, cookies, dense baked goods.

Ratio: 3 tbsp = 1 egg

Notes: Works best in recipes where the nutty flavor complements the dish.

10. Carbonated Water

Uses: Light, airy baked goods (cakes, waffles).

Ratio: ¼ cup carbonated water = 1 egg

Why It Works: Adds lift and lightness—ideal when fluffiness is key.

Ask the Reader: What free or cheap sources of eggs did I miss? Let me know and I’ll crack into your tips and add them to my article.

By Kyle James

Kyle James( Owner/Founder )

I started Rather-Be-Shopping.com in 2000 and have become a consumer expert and advocate writing about out-of-the-box ways to save at stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target and Costco to name a few. I’ve been featured on FOX News, Good Morning America, and the NY Times talking about my savings tips. (Learn more)