Despite Tough Ag Economy, Value of Iowa Farmland Climbs

Farmers across the U.S. and Iowa say they expect to post losses for the fourth year in a row. The ag economy has been rough to say the least, this past year. But experts point to one figure that should give farmers one ray of hope.

Value of Iowa Farmland Rises

The Des Moines Register reports that a new survey shows that the value of Iowa farmland rose 1.3% over the past six months. The statewide average had fallen 1.2% from March 2025 to September 2025 before rising again. The Register reports that means that the value of Iowa farmland for the year was mostly flat, up just 0.1%. Farmland in Iowa's northeast corner saw the biggest increase at 3.4%.

How Much Does Iowa Farmland Sell For Per Acre?

The Register reports that the statewide average value of an acre of tillable land at the beginning of March was $10,792. High-quality land is selling for over $13,000 per acre, with medium-quality and low-quality land selling for less. Farmland quality in Iowa is determined by the soil's productivity, called the Corn Suitability Rating, according to the Register. 

Ag Economy Continues to Suffer

The Register reports that farmers across the nation expect to post losses again, as seed, fertilizer, and other costs far outweigh the price of corn, soybeans, and other crops. The Trump Administration is sending $12 billion in emergency aid to farmers, in an effort to offset losses from ongoing trade disputes, according to the Register. A report from Iowa State University says that despite market slumps, Iowa farmland has nearly quadrupled since 2005.