Coop and run size for 4 chickens
These are common minimums from poultry extension guides. Bigger is better: crowded birds fight, peck and get sick, and most keepers add to their flock later. Plan for more birds than you start with.
| Item | Standard hens |
|---|---|
| Coop floor area (4 sq ft each) | 16 sq ft |
| Outdoor run (10 sq ft each) | 40 sq ft |
| Nesting boxes (1 per 4 hens) | 1 |
| Roost bar | 3.3 ft |
| Ventilation (about 1 sq ft each) | 4 sq ft |
| Feed per day (about 1/4 lb each) | 1.00 lb |
By breed size and run space
Bantams need less room than heavy breeds, and a roomier run keeps birds calmer and cuts down on bare ground and mud.
| Breed size | Run per bird | Coop floor | Run area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bantams | 8 sq ft | 8 sq ft | 32 sq ft |
| Bantams | 10 sq ft | 8 sq ft | 40 sq ft |
| Bantams | 15 sq ft | 8 sq ft | 60 sq ft |
| Standard breeds | 8 sq ft | 16 sq ft | 32 sq ft |
| Standard breeds | 10 sq ft | 16 sq ft | 40 sq ft |
| Standard breeds | 15 sq ft | 16 sq ft | 60 sq ft |
| Large or heavy breeds | 8 sq ft | 20 sq ft | 32 sq ft |
| Large or heavy breeds | 10 sq ft | 20 sq ft | 40 sq ft |
| Large or heavy breeds | 15 sq ft | 20 sq ft | 60 sq ft |
Coop dimensions that give 16 sq ft
| Width | Length | Floor area |
|---|---|---|
| 3 ft wide | 5.3 ft long | 16 sq ft |
| 4 ft wide | 4.0 ft long | 16 sq ft |
| 5 ft wide | 3.2 ft long | 16 sq ft |
| 6 ft wide | 2.7 ft long | 16 sq ft |
| 8 ft wide | 2.0 ft long | 16 sq ft |
Use the chicken coop size calculator for your own flock, and read how big a chicken coop should be for ventilation and predator-proofing. Check local rules on flock size and distance from the property line.
Want to change anything else? The calculator above is the full Chicken Coop Size Calculator: edit any number and the results update instantly.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How big should a coop be for 4 chickens?
At least 16 sq ft inside for standard-size hens (4 sq ft each), such as 4.0 × 4 ft, plus a run of at least 40 sq ft at 10 sq ft per bird. Bantams need only 8 sq ft, and heavy breeds 20 sq ft.
How many nesting boxes for 4 chickens?
1 nesting box at one box for every 4 hens. Hens often share a favorite box, so extra boxes do not help.
How long should the roost be for 4 chickens?
About 3.3 ft of roost bar for standard hens (10 inches each), with 4 sq ft of ventilation opening high in the coop, away from the roost so there are no drafts on the birds.
Related sizes and guides
Related sizes
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.