Land Sales Bulletin

Iowa Cash Rents Hold Steady in 2026 Despite Market Pressures

accountJennifer Moran | calendar-monthJune 3, 2026

Iowa’s 2026 cropland cash rents showed remarkable stability, landing at an average of $270 per acre, just $1 below 2025 levels. Despite lower commodity prices and elevated input costs, rental rates across high-, medium-, and low‑quality farmland saw only minor adjustments, mirroring the steadiness seen in recent land value surveys.

County‑level results reflected Iowa’s typical variability: 47 counties posted increases, 49 saw declines, and 3 remained unchanged. The highest average rents were reported in Sioux, Lyon, and Delaware counties, while Wayne, Lucas, and Davis recorded the lowest averages.

Looking ahead, improved season‑average price projections for corn and soybeans—supported by USDA’s May WASDE update—have contributed to a more optimistic outlook for 2026 crops. Futures markets are signaling some of the strongest price expectations in over a year, helping keep cash rents from moving sharply in either direction.

For landowners and operators across Iowa, these findings reinforce the value of using county‑level data as a starting point for 2027 lease discussions, while still tailoring agreements to productivity, drainage, fertility, and local market conditions. Farm Progress: https://www.farmprogress.com/farm-business/why-iowa-cropland-cash-rents-barely-budged-in-2026?

Illinois Farmland Sales Hold Steady in Q1 as Smaller Tracts Lead the Way

accountJennifer Moran | calendar-monthJune 1, 2026

Illinois farmland sales remained steady through the first quarter of 2026, with more than 10,190 acres changing hands and total reported sales topping $103.5 million. Most transactions clustered between $10,000 and $13,000 per acre, reflecting a balanced, stable market despite broader economic pressures.

One of the most notable trends was the continued strength of smaller tracts under 80 acres, which averaged $11,443 per acre, outpacing larger farms by roughly $640 per acre. Local farmers remained the dominant buyers, accounting for 57% of purchases statewide.

Top-end parcels continued to command premiums, with several sales exceeding $20,000 per acre in counties such as Hancock, Effingham, and Christian. While market signals point to ongoing volatility, Illinois farmland values overall remain supported by strong local demand and consistent pricing. Successful Farming: Illinois Farmland Sales Top $103 Million in Q1 as Small Tracts Outpace Larger Farms

As always, Land Sales Bulletin, reporting finalized land sales across its 10‑state Midwest region—including Illinois—continues to track these trends to keep buyers, sellers, and advisors informed.

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