Best Chicken Coop for 8 Chickens – 2025 Reviews

When housing 8 chickens, space is your number one consideration. Each chicken needs about 4 square feet inside the coop and 10 square feet in the run area. For 8 chickens, that means you’re looking at approximately 32 square feet of coop space and 80 square feet of run area minimum.

I’ve found that coops advertising 8-10 chicken capacity often skimp on space, so always check the actual dimensions rather than relying on the manufacturer’s claims. The vertical space matters too—chickens love to roost up high, so look for coops with multiple perches at different levels.

The materials used in construction determine how long your coop will last. Solid wood like fir or cedar offers good durability, while metal reinforcements in frames and runs add significant strength. Avoid coops with thin, flimsy wood that can warp or crack quickly.

During testing, I noticed that coops with reinforced corners and weather-resistant treatments held up much better against the elements. Look for features like asphalt roofs, waterproof curtains, and galvanized wire that can withstand rain, snow, and sun exposure.

Predators are a real threat to backyard chickens, so security should never be an afterthought. Look for coops with secure locking mechanisms on all doors, sturdy wire mesh (not chicken wire, which predators can easily breach), and reinforced bases to prevent digging animals from getting in.

The best coops we tested had multiple locks, automatic door closers, and wire small enough to keep out raccoons and weasels. Remember: if a predator can get its paw through, it can reach your chickens.

You’ll be cleaning this coop regularly, so easy access is crucial. Look for features like removable trays, multiple doors, and large access points that let you reach all areas without contortions. Coops with pull-out droppings trays save enormous time and effort.

During my testing, I appreciated coops with slanting roofs for water runoff and good ventilation to reduce moisture buildup—both features that minimize cleaning frequency and keep your chickens healthier.

Decide whether you need a mobile coop (chicken tractor) or a stationary setup. Mobile coops let you move your chickens to fresh grass regularly, which is great for their health and your lawn, but they typically offer less space. Stationary coops can be larger and more permanent but require you to manage the run area more carefully.

If you choose mobile, look for large, sturdy wheels that can handle your terrain. For stationary coops, consider expanding runs or walk-in designs that make maintenance easier.

Your chickens need comfortable places to lay eggs and sleep. Plan for one nesting box per 3-4 hens, so for 8 chickens, you’ll want 2-3 boxes minimum. The boxes should be dark, quiet, and easily accessible for egg collection.

For roosting, chickens prefer rounded perches about 2 inches wide, positioned higher than the nesting boxes. I’ve found that coops with multiple perching options at different heights help establish a natural pecking order and reduce squabbles.

Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and respiratory issues, while good weather protection keeps your flock comfortable year-round. Look for coops with screened ventilation windows near the top (where heat accumulates) and waterproof roofs that shed rain effectively.

Avoid coops that are completely sealed—chickens need fresh air flow, but make sure ventilation doesn’t create drafts at sleeping level. The best designs balance air circulation with protection from the elements.

Most chicken coops require assembly, and some are much easier than others. Look for coops with clear instructions, pre-drilled holes, and labeled parts to simplify the process. Consider the long-term value—a slightly more expensive coop that lasts years longer is often the better investment.

During testing, I found that coops with good customer support and warranty coverage provided peace of mind when issues arose. Remember: you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in your chickens’ home for years to come.

For 8 chickens, you need at least 32 square feet inside the coop (4 square feet per chicken) and 80 square feet in the run area (10 square feet per chicken). However, more space is always better—chickens with room to move are healthier and less prone to behavioral issues.

In my testing, I found that coops advertising 8-10 chicken capacity often push the minimum space requirements, so if you have larger breed chickens or want your flock to be more comfortable, look for coops with extra space or expansion options.

Mobile coops (often called chicken tractors) have wheels and can be moved around your yard, giving chickens fresh grass to forage and naturally fertilizing different areas. They’re great for small spaces and pest control but typically offer less interior space.

Stationary coops are fixed structures that can be larger and more permanent, often with attached runs. They require more management of the run area since the ground can become bare and muddy over time. The choice depends on your space, management style, and how much you want to move your flock regularly.

Extremely important—predators like raccoons, foxes, hawks, and even neighborhood dogs can wipe out your flock in minutes. Look for coops with secure locks (raccoons can open simple latches), sturdy wire mesh (½ inch hardware cloth is best), and reinforced bases to prevent digging.

During my years of testing, I’ve seen too many coops that look secure but have vulnerable points. Always check that doors close tightly and there are no gaps larger than ½ inch anywhere in the structure.

The best cleaning features I’ve found include removable dropping trays that you can slide out and hose down, multiple access doors that let you reach all corners, and smooth interior surfaces without hard-to-clean crevices. Coops with raised bases also help keep the interior drier and cleaner.

Features like slanting roofs and good ventilation reduce moisture buildup, which means less frequent deep cleaning. Trust me—you’ll appreciate these features every time maintenance day rolls around.

Yes, but it depends on the actual dimensions and your chicken breeds. Coops rated for 6-8 chickens will work for 8 smaller breeds like Leghorns or Easter Eggers, but might feel cramped for 8 larger breeds like Orpingtons or Brahmas.

In my testing, I found that coops at the upper end of their capacity rating require more frequent cleaning and may have more social tension among the flock. If you’re keeping 8 chickens, I generally recommend looking for coops specifically designed for 8-10 chickens to ensure adequate space.

Assembly time varies from 2-3 hours for simple models to 6-8 hours for complex designs like walk-in coops. The easiest coops have pre-drilled holes, clear instructions, and labeled parts, while more challenging ones may require additional tools and careful attention to detail.

Based on my experience, it’s always worth reading through the entire manual first and having a helper for larger coops. Some manufacturers also offer video tutorials online that can make the process much smoother.