Most Rented U.S. Farmland Owned by Non-Farmers

More than 2 million landowners rented out 348 million acres of U.S. farmland in 2024, according to the latest USDA Tenure, Ownership and Transition of Agricultural Land survey. The report highlights the significant role rental agreements play in U.S. agriculture, as many farmers operate land owned by others. The survey found 79 percent of rented farmland is owned by non-farming landlords. Private landowners, trusts, and family entities control more than 251 million acres of rented farmland. USDA says rented farmland and associated buildings are valued at more than $1.6 trillion. Landlords received $34.1 billion in rental income in 2024 while reporting $12 billion in operating expenses. The report also shows that farmland landlords are significantly older on average, with a median age of 69.2 compared to 58.1 for the average farmer.