Still Up 51.70% in 5 Years: What Does This Mean for Your Farm?
Each year, Iowa farmland owners and investors look to the mid-year benchmark report to answer one question: Where is the market headed? The July 2025 report from Farm Credit Services of America delivers both clarity and opportunity.
The Short-Term Dip
Let’s start with the numbers:
Iowa cropland benchmark values are down -0.10% over the past 6 months
Down -3.60% over the past 12 months
These modest declines reflect broader market pressures—softer commodity prices, cautious buyers, and seasonally limited sales activity. But let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture.
The Long-Term Perspective
Despite the short-term dip, Iowa farmland values have surged over the long haul:
Up 51.70% in the past 5 years
Up 44.80% over the past decade
This continued appreciation speaks volumes about the strength of the asset class. Even through volatility, Iowa farmland remains one of the most resilient and high-performing investments available.
So, What’s Driving This?
Several factors continue to anchor Iowa farmland values:
Tight supply – Quality farms are still hard to find.
Strong local demand – Farmers and ranchers remain the dominant buyers.
Land scarcity mindset – Buyers know farmland isn’t something you can manufacture more of.
While interest rates and margins may shift, the fundamentals of ownership, legacy, and long-term ROI are keeping farmland in high demand.
What Should You Do with This Information?
If you’re a landowner, this data should serve as a compass. Even in a market with minor softening, your asset is still significantly more valuable than just a few years ago. And if you’re thinking about selling, strategic timing and strong marketing still matter—more than ever.
At Whitaker Marketing Group, we’re helping clients make the most of these market conditions—whether that means selling now, preparing for a future exit, or simply understanding what your land is worth.
Let’s Talk Land Strategy
Your land is more than an asset—it’s a legacy. If you’re curious about current land values or thinking about your next move, we’re here to help.
Call us at 515-996-5263
Email us at info@wmgauction.com
Explore listings or request a valuation at www.wmgauction.com
Source: Farm Credit Services of America, July 1, 2025 Benchmark Report
Data reflects cropland benchmarks across 93 representative farms.
