We have one on the ground and one about two foot off the ground, and I'd depends on the mood where the most are laid. But there is atleast one egg in either box every day. So I honestly this that it is where ever the hen prefers. But everyone has there own way that works best. So this is my advise what ever you feel most comfy with then go with that. You also have to think about where u want the eggs to be, do u want to bend over to get them or do I want to stand up?