Iowa Farmland Sales Show Strong Prices for Quality Ground
Iowa farmland auctions continued across the state during the week of October 24–30, 2026, with several farms bringing strong prices despite a farmland market that has softened slightly in some areas.
This week’s reported auction results included farmland sales across western, central, northern, and eastern Iowa. Prices varied depending on soil quality, location, tillable acres, and buyer demand.
Several farms sold for more than $15,000 per acre, while the highest reported sale reached $19,800 per acre.
Highest Iowa Farmland Auction Prices This Week
Some of the strongest reported farmland sales included:
- Sioux County: 80 acres sold for $19,800 per acre, with a tillable CSR2 of 76.9.
- Lyon County: 80 acres sold for $19,700 per acre, with a tillable CSR2 of 93.5.
- O’Brien County: 80 acres sold for $18,900 per acre, with a tillable CSR2 of 94.3.
- Lyon County: 80.58 acres sold for $17,600 per acre, with a tillable CSR2 of 91.7.
- Henry County: 80 acres sold for $15,900 per acre, with a tillable CSR2 of 85.4.
- Cherokee County: 80 acres sold for $15,900 per acre, with a tillable CSR2 of 93.9.
These results show that buyers continue to compete for farmland, particularly properties with desirable locations, strong productivity, and good farming characteristics.
Farmland Auction Results Across Iowa
Auction activity was reported in numerous Iowa counties throughout the week.
In central Iowa, a 225-acre Hardin County farm sold for $14,000 per acre, while a 114.16-acre Plymouth County farm brought $11,300 per acre.
In western Iowa, Pottawattamie County recorded two sales. A 247.21-acre farm sold for $11,000 per acre, while a 196.2-acre farm brought $11,700 per acre.
Northeast Iowa also saw considerable activity. Fayette County had multiple reported sales, with prices ranging from $5,300 to $12,900 per acre across different land types. Several of these properties included recreational acres or lower-productivity ground, which can influence the overall selling price.
Wapello County recorded sales ranging from $3,700 to $7,050 per acre for tillable farmland, along with a pasture property that sold for $5,550 per acre.
These differences demonstrate why farmland values should be evaluated individually rather than relying solely on statewide averages.
How Does CSR2 Affect Iowa Farmland Prices?
CSR2, or Corn Suitability Rating 2, is one of the measurements used to evaluate the productivity of Iowa farmland.
Generally, farms with higher CSR2 ratings have greater crop production potential. However, CSR2 is only one factor buyers consider when determining what they are willing to pay.
For example, this week’s results included:
- An 80-acre Lyon County farm with a CSR2 of 93.5 that sold for $19,700 per acre.
- An 80-acre O’Brien County farm with a CSR2 of 94.3 that sold for $18,900 per acre.
- A 225-acre Hardin County farm with a CSR2 of 87.9 that sold for $14,000 per acre.
- A 140-acre Sac County farm with a CSR2 of 86.6 that sold for $12,200 per acre.
Location, drainage, field shape, access, and competition among neighboring landowners can all influence the final selling price.
What Do This Week’s Results Mean for Iowa Landowners?
The October 24–30 auction results show that there is still demand for Iowa farmland, although prices continue to vary considerably by property.
High-quality farms in desirable locations are still bringing competitive prices. At the same time, properties with lower CSR2 ratings, recreational components, or fewer tillable acres may attract a different group of buyers.
For landowners considering selling, understanding the local market is important. A farm’s value depends on more than just its acreage or CSR2 rating.
Reviewing recent comparable sales, evaluating the property, and choosing the right selling method can make a difference in the final outcome.
Thinking About Selling Iowa Farmland?
At Whitaker Marketing Group, we specialize in farmland auctions, traditional listings, sealed bids, and farmland valuations throughout Iowa.
We monitor farmland auction results across the state to help landowners understand current market conditions and make informed decisions about their property.
If you’re considering selling farmland or would like to know what your property may be worth in today’s market, contact Whitaker Marketing Group.
Visit www.wmgauction.com to learn more about our farmland selling services.
