WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. meat animal producers saw a sharp rise in cash receipts during 2025 as stronger livestock values pushed income higher. USDA said total cash receipts from marketings of cattle, calves, hogs, and pigs climbed 18 percent to $165 billion.
Cattle and calves drove most of that gain. Cash receipts from cattle and calf marketings rose 19 percent from $112 billion in 2024 to $134 billion in 2025. Even so, total cattle and calf marketings were 59.6 billion pounds, down slightly from the previous year.
Hogs and pigs also posted a stronger income year. Cash receipts totaled $30.9 billion, up 13 percent from 2024, while marketings reached 43.9 billion pounds, 2 percent above the prior year.
USDA said total production of cattle, calves, hogs, and pigs reached 87.6 billion pounds in 2025, up 1 percent from 2024. Production increased slightly for cattle and calves and rose 2 percent for hogs and pigs.
Gross income from meat animals totaled $166 billion in 2025, also up 18 percent. Cattle and calves accounted for 81 percent of total cash receipts, while hogs and pigs made up 19 percent.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Stronger livestock values lifted 2025 receipts and income even though cattle marketings were slightly lower.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Higher output keeps milk supplies ample, reinforcing expectations for softer dairy prices even as feed costs remain favorable.
February 24, 2026 07:30 AM
·
Cash flow management and lender communication are becoming critical survival tools for farmers as tightening margins increase risk and borrowing pressure.
February 24, 2026 06:00 AM
·
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
February 23, 2026 02:36 PM
·
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
February 23, 2026 02:15 PM
·
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
February 23, 2026 01:40 PM
·
Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
February 23, 2026 11:08 AM
·