LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Prices received by U.S. farmers moved higher in March, but input costs also kept climbing, leaving the overall margin picture still tight. USDA said the March Prices Received Index for agricultural production rose 1.1 percent from February to 131.5, while the Prices Paid Index increased 0.5 percent to 160.4.
Crop prices were mixed. USDA said corn averaged $4.27 per bushel in March, up 16 cents from February, soybeans averaged $11.10, up 50 cents, and all wheat averaged $5.52, up 40 cents. Rice moved the other direction, falling 60 cents from February to $11.70 per hundredweight.
Livestock and dairy prices also shifted unevenly. The March beef cattle price averaged $236.00 per hundredweight, down $3.00 from February but up $34.00 from a year earlier. Hogs averaged $68.70, up $2.80 from February, and all milk averaged $19.70, up $1.40 from the previous month.
On the cost side, USDA said higher diesel, complete feed, gasoline, and LP gas prices more than offset declines in feeder cattle, concentrates, herbicides, and insecticides. The ratio of prices received to prices paid improved from 81 in February to 83 in March, but it remained well below 97 a year earlier.
The report leaves producers with a mixed outlook. March prices improved in several major categories, but higher input costs continued to limit the relief farmers actually saw.
Farm-Level Takeaway: March brought better prices for several commodities, but rising fuel and feed costs kept margins under pressure.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
April 10, 2026 12:18 PM
·
Texas ranchers and lawmakers warn of renewed New World screwworm risks, highlighting prevention efforts, border concerns, and the role of sterile flies in protecting U.S. livestock.
April 10, 2026 11:19 AM
·
USDA Undersecretary Dr. Mindy Brashears provides more insight on the updated “Product of USA” label campaign and the USDA’s goals for both consumers and producers.
April 09, 2026 02:19 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the application process for Stages 1 and 2 of the USDA’s Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, and what farmers can expect as the deadline approaches.
April 09, 2026 01:59 PM
·
Fertilizer relief may be limited despite the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz this week. AgriSompo’s Brooks York discusses marketing strategies, crop insurance considerations, and other tips for producers navigating volatility this planting season.
April 09, 2026 01:25 PM
·
Overall, the report suggests a shift toward more comfortable supply levels, with demand emerging as a key factor to watch in the months ahead.
April 09, 2026 12:13 PM
·
