U.S. Poultry Industry Supports 2.3 Million Jobs, Generates Nearly $800 Billion in Economic Activity

Oct 30, 2026

The U.S. poultry industry's contributions to the national economy continue to grow, supporting nearly 307,000 additional jobs and generating $135.9 billion more in economic activity compared to 2024, according to an updated economic impact study released by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and United Egg Producers.

The study reveals that the U.S. poultry industry now supports 2,319,443 jobs, generates $177.1 billion in wages, contributes $799.5 billion in economic activity and provides $74.5 billion in government revenue. Compared to the 2024 study, these figures represent an increase of nearly 307,000 jobs (15%), $44.4 billion in wages (33%), $135.9 billion in economic activity (20%) and $20.5 billion in government revenue (38%). These gains underscore the poultry industry's expanding economic footprint and its vital role in supporting American workers, businesses and communities nationwide.

“The U.S. poultry industry continues to demonstrate its tremendous value to the national, state and local agriculture & food production communities’ economy through the production of affordable, high-quality protein and the millions of jobs it supports nationwide," said Nath Morris, president of USPOULTRY. "These findings highlight the industry's growing economic contributions and its vital role in supporting American workers, businesses and communities.”

Chicken Industry

The chicken industry remains a significant driver of the national economy, supporting 1,555,821 jobs, generating $118.7 billion in wages, contributing $532.9 billion in economic activity and providing $49.5 billion in government revenue. Since the 2024 study, the chicken industry supports nearly 180,000 additional jobs, generates $27.8 billion more in wages and contributes an additional $83.4 billion in economic activity. Government revenue has also increased by $12.8 billion. These gains represent approximately 13% growth in employment, 31% in wages, 19% in economic activity and 35% in government revenue.

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