Iowa Farmland Cash Rental Rates 2018

Average Farmland Cash Rents In Iowa By County And Quality

Iowa Farmland rental rates showed a little uptick in this years Iowa Farmland Cash Rental Survey by Iowa State University.  This is the first gain in farmland rental rates since 2013.  Crop reporting districts 8 and 9 in south-central and southeast Iowa were the only 2 of 9 districts to report lower farmland rents for 2018.  District 7 reported an increase of $1 per acre essentially coming in neck and neck with 2017 farmland cash rents.  The northern 2/3rds of Iowa which contain the other 6 crop reporting districts was responsible for most of the gains in farmland rents however they were small gains.  District 1 in Northwest Iowa gained $4 per acre coming in at $327 this year while district 2 reported average farmland cash rents that were $7 above the 2017 level.  We saw a $5 gain in district 4, $9 in district 5, and $4 in district 6.

Average Farmland Cash Rent By County

 For all classes of farmland in Iowa, this is a chart of the survey results showing the average rent for farmland.  This averages high, medium and low-quality farmland into just 1 average rental rate.  How do you know where your farm falls?  Cash rental rates are going to be much like the value of farmland itself.   Its driven by CSR2, field shape, access, drainage, and lack of obstructions.  A flat, black and square farm with good drainage, 75+ CSR2, and good access is a prime Iowa farm that will command the best rental rates.  If your farm lacks any of the better qualities you are likely to see a more discounted rate in what farm operators.  How much will be up to negotiations between you.  I often get calls about farmland rents to help people understand the value of their farm.  They always want to know if they are getting a fair deal and while there is no standard number you can rely on the numbers in this report as a good starting point in your mind.  As more if your farm is better than average, and expect an offer of less if it’s not average quality.  I’m always available to visit with you and if you need to talk to somebody or ask questions about renting a farm whether you are the operator or the owner.  Give me a call anytime at 712-592-8965 or send me a message using the form on this page.

If you are considering selling a farm and don’t know what to do contact us at DramDirt.  We provide a free farmland market analysis and consultation that can help you understand the quality and value of your farm.