Farming is one of the foundation stones of the American Dream. In my neck of the woods, chicken farming is a significant part of that foundation. Here in Mississippi, the poultry industry is huge and is thriving. After all, people in all regions of the world eat and love chicken. (I personally could eat fried chicken every day…. but that’s another story.)

Owning a chicken farm is a great way to make a living. It’s hard work, but it can provide a lifestyle that is envious in multiple ways. Chicken farmers rise early and work hard. The work is often strenuous, and it’s hot in the summer and cold in the winter. It’s dirty, and it smells! Most poultry farmers, however, will tell you that smell you experience on a chicken farm is the smell of money.

Read more: Broiler Farms vs. Breeder Farms

The part of poultry farming that really resonates with folks is the family life that comes with it. I have known many couples who work their farm together. They get to spend the majority of each day in each other’s company, and they get fulfillment in seeing the work of their hands come together on a day to day basis.

In some families, one spouse works the farm while the other has a full-time job elsewhere. This not only provides a second stream of income but can have the benefit of health insurance for the family.

Children who grow up on a farm have unique opportunities to grow and become self-sufficient. They see the cycle of life in living color. They learn the value of hard work while enjoying the country life. On a chicken farm, you can help mom and dad feed and do chores, then go out in the field to hunt or down to the pond to fish, all on the same day. They also learn to fix broken equipment, operate machinery like tractors and farm implements.

The farm lifestyle is attractive because the farmer is working for him or herself. Making decisions and carrying out plans is empowering. There’s not another feeling in the world like seeing the fruit of your own labor on a daily basis.

Poultry farming is a great life for families who love the outdoors and the rewards of meaningful work.