Contrary to popular belief, larger farms don’t always have lower costs per acre

There is a belief out there that larger farms often have lower costs per acre, and some researchers say that is a common misconception.

Economists with the University of Illinois say that while that might be true in some cases, there are many variables to consider. The numbers show that your location plays a big role, and researchers say it is important to benchmark within geographic context.

They suggest doing a regular study of the operation, including a deep dive into records as well as analyzing trends.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today issued a new memorandum to modernize and strengthen America’s wildfire prevention and response system.
Understanding the Big, Beautiful Bill’s complex impact on SNAP benefits – that’s the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s legal expert, Roger McEowen.
National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust said farmers face a challenging year with strong supply, murky trade conditions, and uncertain access to their largest market: China.
RFD-TV Markets Expert Tony St. James breaks down the state of agribusiness and harvest progress across the U.S. for the week of Monday, September 15, 2025.
Missouri Cattle RanchHER Alda Owen joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to talk about the all-new episode of FarmHER + RanchHER, which premieres on Thursday, Sept. 19!
U.S. trade talks with China resume, but meat industry leaders say dealing with shifting demand and market uncertainty is nothing new in this side of the ag sector.