KANSAS CITY, MO (RFD NEWS) — Ranchland values climbed sharply in the Tenth Federal Reserve District as strong cattle prices continued to support parts of the farm economy.
The Kansas City Federal Reserve says ranchland values rose nearly 11 percent from a year ago, reaching new record highs in early 2026.
Cropland values also improved modestly after recent weakness. Non-irrigated cropland rose about 2.5 percent, while irrigated cropland increased about 4 percent and remained near historic highs.
The farm economy remains split.
The Kansas City Federal Reserve says cattle revenues, government payments, and strong land values are supporting balance sheets, while crop producers still face narrow margins, fertilizer uncertainty, and fuel cost concerns.
Credit conditions continue to show gradual stress. Loan demand increased steadily, repayment rates weakened modestly, and lenders reported that about 20 percent of borrowers had more carryover debt than last year.
Even so, loan denials remained low, and strong farmland values helped keep leverage steady.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong cattle markets are lifting ranchland values, but crop-sector margins and carryover debt still point to financial pressure.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Young farmer Elizabeth Bergschneider explains how Monil Virtual Fences supports her family’s succession planning and helps the next generation manage the farm remotely.
October 22, 2026 04:52 PM
·
CoBank says beef-on-dairy is playing a major role in the changing market.
October 22, 2026 03:52 PM
·
Soy Transportation Coalition’s Mike Steenhoek discusses how rising diesel costs affect grain delivery decisions and how farmers can use their free calculator to compare transportation costs and protect profitability.
October 22, 2026 03:00 PM
·
Higher shipping costs could make U.S. grain less competitive overseas.
October 22, 2026 10:00 AM
·
AFBF Deputy Chief Economist Dr. Faith Parum says Title I commodity payment rates are expected in November. Producers should watch for USDA application details and contact local FSA offices.
October 22, 2026 06:00 AM
·
ASFMRA’s Spencer Smith discusses farmland lease negotiations and the financial considerations facing landowners and farm operators as they head into the 2027 crop year.
October 21, 2026 05:00 PM
·
