Farmland prices are holding steady but there are a slew of factors that could change that

Farmland values have held steady so far this year. One analyst has been watching closely and says profitability will determine how the rest of the year goes.

“If things kind of stay the same, I don’t think we’ll see much change. But if we see any hiccups that affect the farm economy in a negative fashion, I think we could see somewhat of a downturn in general. And you know, those, those geopolitical events, uncertainty, these tariffs and things like that, are all playing a little part in in the in our US economy in general, but, but really have an opportunity to impact the ag economy,” said with Paul Shadegg, Senior Vice President of Real Estate at Farmers National Company.

Analysts have found high commodity prices in 2021-2023 led to growth in both cash rents and land values, which is likely a driving factor behind recent steady prices.

Related Stories
While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.
Trade volatility and shifting export destinations increase marketing risk for producers heading into 2026.
Rising rural business confidence supports local ag economies, but taxes and labor shortages remain key constraints.
CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
Dr. Seth Meyer Concludes Service; Dr. Justin Benavidez Appointed USDA Chief Economist
USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.