Regions Differ in Reliance on Family-Owned Agriculture

Regional differences indicate that family ownership is universal, but farm structure and commodity mix determine the extent to which these operations drive agricultural output.

Shelly_Muzzall_01_21_19_USA_WA_Three_Sisters_Farm_012.jpg

3 Sisters Family Farm (FarmHER S4, Ep. 9)

FarmHer, Inc.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — Family-owned farms dominate every region of the U.S., but their economic footprint varies widely across the Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, Plains, Southwest, and Northwest. USDA Census data analyzed by Farm Flavor indicate that family ownership exceeds 90 percent across all regions, yet output shares vary by scale, crop mix, and local infrastructure.

Family farms in the Midwest achieve some of the highest production levels, with states such as Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin reporting both high ownership and high sales shares. The Southeast, including Georgia and Arkansas, mirrors this pattern, with family farms accounting for most output.

Great Plains states such as Kansas and Colorado, however, exhibit wider gaps: more than 93 percent of farms are family-owned, yet many sales originate from larger non-family operations.

In the Northeast and Northwest, high ownership persists, but the presence of specialty crops and consolidated operations increases output variability.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Regional differences indicate that family ownership is universal, but farm structure and commodity mix determine the extent to which these operations drive agricultural output.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist

READ MORE: Family Farms Continue to Dominate American Agricultural Production

Related Stories
Allendale analysts say lower hog production has yet to generate the typical seasonal price movement.
New livestock pest research in Texas could strengthen tools protecting cattle health, movement, and ranch profitability.
Higher domestic ethanol blending supports corn demand even as weekly production and export volumes decline.
Specialty crop growers should confirm eligible acreage and application access early to avoid missing available assistance.

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:

Reduced slaughter numbers and stronger export demand are helping push livestock by-product values higher.
USDA will elevate its “Plant Not Plastic” initiative and promote American cotton over synthetic fibers.
The investigation does not prove wrongdoing, but it raises federal scrutiny of a major cost center for crop producers.
The state-level focus is split between labeling and sales restrictions.
For decades, U.S. agriculture has planned around feeding a growing world. Experts say that trend could reverse course in the next 30 years.
The reports cover biodiesel, diesel, gasoline grades, ethanol, aviation fuel, kerosene, and specialty fuels.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Washington farmers grow more than 300 different crops and raise a variety of different animals, and Washington is also home to some of the greatest culinary experiences in America. Whether inside the kitchen or out in the field, at the end of the day, it’s all about the food!
Follow Aumann Auctions coast to coast on a road trip adventure! Each episode of “Old Iron Adventures” highlights the challenges of hosting an auction. Plus, get behind-the-scenes looks, history lessons & meet a cast of very interesting characters along the way!