Enjoy the bees. Leave the beekeeping to us.
A backyard beehive can be wonderful. But the equipment, upkeep, seasonal care, and time commitment add up. Here's what owning a hive yourself can really cost.
Explore Our Managed HivesThe first-year difference
$1,675 estimated cash expenses plus $625 of homeowner time.
Introductory managed-hive rate for the first 10 new residential customers.
What does it cost to keep your own hive?
Illustrative costs for one residential hive in southern New Hampshire.
| Expense | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hive boxes, frames, stand, winter gear, and additional equipment | $450 | $250 | $250 |
| Bees / replacement colony | $275 | $275 | - |
| Protective clothing, smoker, and tools | $400 | - | - |
| Feeding and Varroa treatments | $225 | $225 | $225 |
| Replacement frames and maintenance | - | $200 | $200 |
| Honey harvesting equipment and supplies | $250 | $40 | $40 |
| Education and club membership | $75 | $35 | $35 |
| Homeowner time (25 hours/year at $25/hour) | $625 | $625 | $625 |
| Total estimated cost | $2,300 | $1,650 | $1,375 |
Illustrative estimates, not guaranteed expenses. Year 2 assumes purchasing replacement bees; actual colony survival, equipment needs, and homeowner time may vary. Time is an estimated value, not a cash payment.
Three-year cost comparison
Standard managed pricing without the introductory promotion is $1,800 per year ($5,400 over three years). Services and inclusions are subject to the service agreement.
More bees. Less work.
Enjoy honeybees on your property while a professional handles the ongoing care. First-year residential managed-hive service is $950 for the first 10 new customers.
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