NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Most U.S. farms remain family-run, according to a new Farm Flavor analysis of USDA Census data, which shows 94.7 percent of all farms are family-owned.
These operations account for more than 80 percent of national farm sales, underscoring that American agriculture remains rooted in local, multigenerational enterprises rather than large corporate ownership.
Nationally, about 1.8 million family farms generate roughly $484 billion in annual output. The majority are small farms earning under $350,000 annually, yet they remain essential to rural economies and community food systems. Every state reports at least 90 percent family ownership, with West Virginia, Tennessee, and Kentucky leading the nation.
Larger family farms — while fewer in number — drive more than half of U.S. agricultural output, reflecting efficiency and scale in row crops and livestock. Some states, including Texas and Maine, show wide gaps between family ownership and sales shares, indicating stronger contributions from non-family, high-value operations.
Farm-Level Takeaway: USDA data confirms American agriculture remains overwhelmingly family-run despite structural shifts in scale and production.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
January 13, 2026 12:34 PM
·
Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
January 12, 2026 03:51 PM
·
Rising adoption of GLP-1 drugs may gradually reshape food demand, with potential downstream effects on protein markets and consumer purchasing patterns.
January 12, 2026 02:38 PM
·
Winter Weather, Drought Shape Early 2026 Farm Conditions
January 12, 2026 11:00 AM
·
This simple but powerful tool from Nutrien enables farmers to keep track of highly personalized input costs and expenses involved in running their operation.
January 12, 2026 09:00 AM
As domestic production and blending slowed, export demand remained a clear bright spot.
January 11, 2026 12:00 PM
·
