Cost to Start Beekeeping

What You’ll Spend Getting Started

Before you dive into the many different items you can purchase for your new bees, it helps to see the big picture. The amount you spend depends on your choices.

Most new beekeepers begin with 2 or 3 hives. Though you can start with one hive – colony management is easier with at least 2.

But then, the more hives you have – the more money you need to budget for bees and equipment.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Hive?

Though prices will vary year to year and from one region to another – here is a general breakdown of the first-year beekeeping expenses you can expect per hive.

Don’t let the price of starting a beehive scare you away. Most new beekeepers start out small with a couple of hives and only the necessary tools and equipment.

After the initial setup costs, you will only be responsible for maintenance expenses: replace lost bees, grow your apiary numbers and colony management needs – feeding, pest treatments etc.

You may also be able to mitigate some of these costs by buying a beekeeping starter kit that gives several tools for one price.

Buying used beekeeping equipment is another option – but it does not come without risks of pests and disease. I do not recommend it for new beekeepers.

Another option, let your family know of your desire to keep bees. Give them a copy of this list of gifts for beekeepers. They will likely want to buy you little things as you go along.

The Price of Honey Bees

You can’t be a beekeeping until you have some bees for your hive. The cost of buying honey bees depends on how you get them and regional prices.

Packages and Nucleus Colonies

Most beginners start by purchasing bees in one of two forms:

• Package bees – typically $125-$175 for 3 pounds of bees with a mated queen
• Nucleus colony (nuc) – Small starter hive with brood and food – $180-$250

There are advantages and disadvantages to both methods of getting bees. Buying package bees is less expensive and there is a smaller risk of disease or pests.

Buying a nucleus colony gets the new hive off to a faster start but they cost more and run the risk of disease – especially due to the comb you receive.

Catching a Swarm – Free Bees? (If You Are Lucky)

The idea of catching a swarm of honey bees – for free – sounds wonderful. And, it is a lot of fun. But it is not guaranteed and not the best choice for first year beekeepers.

I suggest saving that option for next year when you have more experience and can improve your chance of success.

Expense of Protective Clothing

Every beekeeper needs some type of protective wear. The most important item is a beekeeper’s hat and veil to protect your face from stings. These can be had for a small amount of money – usually less than $30.

However, if you wish to go for even more protection, a bee jacket or even a full bee suit can be bought. The price for suits and jackets covers a wide range from $50 to several hundred. 

In many cases, you get what you pay for. Cheaper beekeeping wear will do the job but is not as sturdy and will not last as long. 

A good quality beekeeping suit can be washed or at least cleaned – the less expensive options must be handled very carefully to prevent ruin.

Beekeeper gloves or something similar are good items for beginners to consider. Some of us experienced beekeepers still wear them too.

You don’t have to purchase leather beekeeping gloves (that need cleaned regularly), nitrile ones work too.

With the basic tools and protective gear, the beginning beekeeper (himself/herself) is physically prepared to start.

Beekeeper Education

I know many may say this is overkill but I can not agree. After spending hundreds of dollars for all the things you need for your bees – don’t skimp on educating yourself.

If you have an experienced beekeeper who has the time to train you – that’s great. Most people do not have someone with enough available time to teach them all they need to know.

Protect your investment by spending a little on beekeeper education resources (online classes) – I have an online class that is great for new beekeepers.

There are many available books for beekeepers that help prepare you for problems before they arise. Check out my beginners book – Buzz into Beekeeping – but read as many as you can.

Most communities have a local beekeeping association – that is a wonderful resource you should not overlook.

In addition to the initial startup costs for a beehive, you will have some maintenance expenses. The cost of which will vary from year to year and from one apiary to another depending on weather and bee health.

• feeding supplies & sugar syrup – Even healthy colonies may need feeding during some times of the year.
• mite treatments and pest control – Varroa mites are a major problem in many areas. Tools and treatments can run from $20-$50 + a year – per hive.
• add-on equipment – The only thing better than 2 beehives is 3 – right? Most beekeepers do enjoy adding to their apiary over time. Keep a few extra boxes on hand.