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
A regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture, prepared by RFD-TV Markets Specialist Tony St. James, for the week of Monday, November 24, 2025.
November 24, 2025 02:56 PM
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According to November’s Cattle on Feed Report, Nebraska now leads the nation in cattle feeding as tighter supplies continue to reshape regional market power and long-term price dynamics.
November 24, 2025 11:47 AM
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Lower U.S. and Mexican production means tighter sugar supplies and greater reliance on imports headed into 2026.
November 22, 2025 11:00 AM
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The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
November 21, 2025 02:13 PM
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Lower tariff rates and new rail-service proposals may improve corn movement efficiency during early-season marketing.
November 21, 2025 12:01 PM
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Early Cattle-on-Feed estimates point to slightly tighter cattle supplies, reinforcing the need to monitor prices and timing for winter marketing.
November 21, 2025 10:45 AM
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the USDA’s Stage Two Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, including application details, deadlines, and guidance for rural producers.
November 20, 2025 03:34 PM
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Jerry Cosgrove with American Farmland Trust explains why farmers and ranchers should start their estate planning now.
November 19, 2025 04:44 PM
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Elizabeth Strom of the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers joined RFD-TV to provide the latest perspective on post-harvest business planning and cropland markets in the Midwest.
November 19, 2025 04:19 PM
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