Illinois farmers can expect lower cash rents by around $25 next year

Many farmers are preparing for next year, and that includes figuring out rent prices.

A new survey shows cash rents in Illinois are set to fall next year.

“We did a survey of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. We did that in August, and they were saying that their 2025 leases would be down $25 per acre from this year. So, just to give you a feel, we are projecting for Illinois FBFM farms something below $30,000 of net income for 2024. Cash rents went up from 2020 to 2025 by an average of about $40 in the state. So we’re beginning to see a retrenchment. A $25 reduction will help. It won’t get us back to the profitability levels, but it’s a start in that direction,” said Gary Schnitkey.

Analysts recommend farmers work to lower cash rent obligations for next year, while also paying close attention to inputs needs and costs.

Related Stories
StoneX analyst Josh Linville says global supply risks and continued dependence on imported urea are keeping fertilizer markets on edge.
The lockout has not yet signaled a major disruption in the cattle market, but processing reliability remains important in a tight beef supply chain.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer says the “One Big Beautiful Bill” could shift how producers donate grain and commodities to charities.
American Farm Bureau economist Bernt Nelson says consumers are still buying meat despite ongoing price pressures.
Analysts say drought, tight cattle supplies and summer grilling demand continue shaping the protein market outlook.
Some producers remain optimistic about farmland markets while others point to growing pressure on margins and income.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses the recent hantavirus outbreak linked to a South American cruise ship and Nebraska’s monitoring efforts on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Andy Tauer from the National Pork Board discusses efforts to boost pork demand and how the industry is responding to trade restrictions related to pseudorabies.
Dr. Robert Ellis joins us to discuss economic challenges in agriculture, available resources for farmers, and ways producers can evaluate practices to strengthen their operations.
While there is no guarantee a House vote will happen today, the measure has officially been placed on the congressional calendar.
President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are expected to discuss commodities, trade and regional stability during meetings in Asia.