Iowa Farmland Auction Results – Iowa Land Prices Defy Grain Market Slides

Iowa Land Prices: January 10-16, 2026

For a look at the previous week’s results, see our Iowa Land Auction Prices, January 3-9, 2026 recap.

Every time grain markets dip, the same question pops up: will Iowa land auction prices finally soften? Last week’s auctions answered with a decisive no. Even as corn and soybean futures slipped, Iowa land stayed hot—and the numbers set new highs for January.

Sioux County Sets the Pace for Iowa Land Auction Prices at $26,250

Sioux County headlined with a $26,250 per acre sale—a result that quickly becomes the talk of the neighborhood. Sales at this level aren’t flukes; they lift expectations across the region. For those selling top-quality ground, confidence remains high. Buyers know they’ll face real competition for the best dirt.

Johnson County: Iowa Land Auction Prices Hit Row Crop Record

Not far behind, Johnson County saw pure ag land sell at $20,000 per acre. It stands out as a strong sale for row-crop farms in the area. This result suggests strong confidence in the land’s long-term value, regardless of the buyer’s background. For farm families, expanding acreage still means paying up when the right parcel becomes available.

Why Strong Prices Persist

The fact that Iowa land auction prices continue rising—even as grain markets lag—is dominating local conversations right now. Two things stand out: operators have capital from recent good years, and farmland supply remains tight. Most listings come from retirements or estates, not speculative selling. So when a well-located farm hits the auction block, neighboring bidders jump fast—many times, these are once-in-a-generation opportunities.

What to Expect Heading into Spring

Demand for Iowa land auction prices remains strong and shows no sign of letting up. If you’re selling, this is still a great time, but know your benchmarks. If you’re buying, be ready: have financing lined up, set your ceiling, and be prepared to move quickly. The premium ground is moving fast, and there’s no clear sign the market’s slowing down.

 

Table showing statewide Iowa farmland auction results from mid-January 2026, including sale dates, land types, acres sold, price per acre, CSR2, and tillable acres

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