Historical Context: Comparing RLI’s Surveys (2020–2025)

To understand recent changes in farmland values, it’s helpful to look at the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI) Iowa Chapter’s survey results from previous years. Here’s a look at the average price per acre of high-quality Iowa cropland for each survey period:

• March 2020: Statewide cropland values increased by 0.1% from September 2019 to March 2020.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $9,482/acre
• September 2020: Land values remained stable.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $9,236/acre
• March 2021: Farmland values surged by nearly 8% from September 2020 to March 2021.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $10,086/acre
• September 2021: Values continued to rise, reflecting strong demand and limited supply, with an 18.8% increase from March 2021.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $12,182/acre
• March 2022: The upward trend persisted, with values increasing across all land quality categories. Statewide tillable cropland values rose 14.1% over the past 6 months.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $14,080/acre
• September 2022: A slight cooling was observed, with minimal changes in most districts. State prices increased by 2.8% from March 2022.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $14,472/acre
• March 2023: Values remained relatively stable, with only a 0.8% change from September 2022, indicating market stabilization.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $14,859/acre
• September 2023: A minor decrease was noted, suggesting the start of a market correction, with a -0.2% decrease from March 2023.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $15,034/acre
• March 2024: Values decreased by 3.1%, marking a significant shift.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $14,485/acre
• September 2024: The downward trend continued, with a 5.0% decrease.
  • Average price per acre for Iowa High-Quality Cropland: $13,808/acre

Factors Influencing the Market

Several factors are at play in the current market. A decrease in available land supply is keeping prices stable in some areas, while rising commodity prices are contributing to market stability. However, the uncertainty surrounding future tariffs on agricultural goods is creating some caution among both buyers and sellers.

Should I Sell Farmland Now?

One common question we often hear is, “Is now the right time to sell farmland, or should I wait until the fall?” While the uncertainty around tariffs can make the market feel unpredictable, farmland has historically been a resilient and stable long-term investment. In fact, farmland values tend to remain strong even in times of economic fluctuations, especially high- quality tillable farmland. 

Selling now could offer a solid opportunity, especially since market conditions are still favorable and the long-term outlook for farmland remains positive. Waiting until fall could expose sellers to further market shifts, and tariffs may continue to affect global agricultural prices. If you’re considering selling, now may be the right time to capitalize on current values and avoid potential delays or uncertainty later in the year.

Stay Informed and Reach Out

As always, understanding these trends and their potential impacts is crucial for making informed decisions. Whether you’re buying or selling farmland in Iowa, our team at DreamDirt is here to help you navigate the current market with confidence.

Stay updated, and don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice on your farmland opportunities. Contact [email protected] or Call 641-423-6400