Why Farmland Carries More Emotion Than Any Other Asset
I have sold all kinds of assets throughout my career, and I still say this with confidence: there is more emotion in farmland than any other asset I have ever sold.
Notably, farmland did not back down in 2021, and that forward momentum is carrying into 2022. Across Iowa, there was a significant increase in the number of acres sold last year, with multiple auctions setting record prices in many counties.
Strong Demand From Farmers and Investors
Demand continues to come from both farmers and investors. In particular, farmers benefited from strong crop yields and solid incomes in 2021, which helped fuel competitive bidding for quality farmland.
If I had a crystal ball, I would gladly tell you what land prices, interest rates, and corn prices will look like in 2022. However, since none of us has that crystal ball, we instead rely on facts and data.
Ultimately, the facts show that in 2021 the agricultural community demonstrated a willingness to pay more for farmland than ever before. As a result, a perfect storm of factors brought the market to that point.
Even so, one farmland truth remains unchanged — they are not making any more land, and everyone I know who owns farmland wants more.
2021 Iowa Farmland Facts
The numbers from 2021 tell a powerful story:
- 140,981 acres sold at auction in 2021
- 1,126 separate auctions held statewide
- Average price: $10,997 per acre
- Average value: $149 per CSR2 point
Farmland Prices by CSR2 Rating
- CSR2 above 75: averaged $12,869 per acre
- CSR2 between 50–75: averaged $8,759 per acre
- CSR2 below 50: averaged $6,820 per acre
Notable 2021 Market Highlights
- 18 farms sold for more than $20,000 per acre
- Sioux County led the state with 46 auctions and the highest average price at $17,850 per acre
- November saw the most acres sold, followed by December and September
- Farmland proved it can be sold successfully at any time of the year
Our Commitment to Iowa Landowners
Our mission is to be your trusted advisor.
Our obligation is to market your farmland to the largest possible audience, creating the most successful outcome.
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David & Ann Whitaker | Iowa Land Guy
When you think of farmland, think of us.
Average Iowa farmland prices per acre by county in 2021, highlighting regional differences in land values across the state.
