Hop Production Declines in 2025 as Acreage Pulls Back

Fewer acres and stronger prices suggest disciplined hop production is supporting market balance despite lower output.

less hops.jpg

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — U.S. hop production declined in 2025 as fewer harvested acres outweighed modest gains in yield, according to the USDA’s latest National Hop Report. Total production fell 5 percent from last year, signaling continued supply adjustment across the Pacific Northwest as growers respond to evolving brewery demand.

USDA estimates 2025 U.S. hop production at 83.1 million pounds, down from 87.1 million pounds in 2024. Harvested acreage dropped 7 percent to 41,654 acres, with acreage declining in every producing state. Average U.S. yield increased to 1,996 pounds per acre, up 52 pounds from a year earlier, partially offsetting the acreage decline.

Washington remained the dominant producing state, accounting for roughly three-quarters of national output, though harvested acreage fell to just over 31,000 acres. Idaho and Oregon also reported lower harvested area, continuing a multi-year contraction as growers adjust production to contract demand and inventory levels.

Despite lower output, hop prices strengthened modestly. The national average price rose to $5.38 per pound, compared with $5.12 in 2024. As a result, the value of U.S. hop production increased slightly to $447 million, even with fewer total pounds harvested.

The report reflects an industry recalibrating acreage while maintaining productivity as brewers fine-tune sourcing and variety needs heading into 2026.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Fewer acres and stronger prices suggest disciplined hop production is supporting market balance despite lower output.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Jeff Johnston with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange explains the growing role of Rural America in supporting the nation’s digital infrastructure.
Cattle markets are watching the Cattle-on-Feed Report for signs of tighter supplies, while USMEF warns limited China access is cutting producer profits.
Weather-driven transportation disruptions can tighten logistics, affect basis levels, and delay grain movement during winter months.
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg outlines the Farm Bridge Assistance Program and responds to calls from lawmakers and ag leaders for more assistance and expanded trade opportunities for farmers.
Record ethanol production, coupled with stronger demand, supports corn use despite tighter margins elsewhere.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
Rural population growth and stabilizing economic indicators point to post-pandemic recovery, but uneven income, shifting industries, and regional divides remain key challenges for rural communities.
Large-scale land purchases signal rising competition for ranchland, reinforcing its value while reshaping long-term access and control in rural agriculture.
Moderate oil prices may ease fuel costs, but continued caution in the energy sector could limit rural economic growth.