Unlocking the Value of Iowa Farmland: A Comprehensive Guide to Current Land Prices and Expert Insights - July 2025 Report
Welcome to Our Monthly Iowa Farmland Value Report
In this monthly report, we dive into Iowa farmland values, helping you understand the factors that determine what your farm is potentially worth. Our goal as auctioneers and farmland real estate agents is to provide you with up-to-date information, recent sales data, expert insights, and tips for maximizing the potential value of your farmland sale. Let us answer the questions you have about selling farmland in Iowa. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding Iowa Farmland Values:
Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index: Farmland Prices and Economic Trends
July 2025 Farmland Price Trends in the Midwest
The most recent Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI), published by Creighton University, offers a mixed picture for rural economies across 10 Midwest and Plains states. While the overall index managed to stay just above growth neutral at 50.6, ongoing pressure on farmland prices remains a concern.
For the 14th time in 15 months, farmland values remained below the growth-neutral mark, landing at 47.9 in July. Although this represents a slight improvement from June’s 40.9, rural bank CEOs expect average farmland prices to decline another 2.9% over the next 12 months.
Why Are Farmland Prices Facing Downward Pressure?
Bankers and economists alike point to several contributing factors:
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Low commodity prices for crops like corn and soybeans, which remain below breakeven levels for many farmers.
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High input costs and interest rates, making both farming and borrowing more expensive.
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Trade concerns, particularly the potential negative impact of new tariff policies, with 40% of rural bankers expecting retaliation that could further hurt farm income.
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Export declines: Agricultural and livestock exports in the first half of 2025 dropped 14.8% compared to the same period in 2024, falling from $5.3 billion to $4.5 billion. Mexico remained the top trading partner, accounting for over 56% of total exports.
Additional Pressure on Rural Economies
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Farm equipment sales have now been below growth neutral for 23 consecutive months, signaling long-term caution from producers on capital investments.
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Farm loan volume hit a record high in July, reflecting increased borrowing likely due to tighter margins.
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Banker confidence in future rural economic growth continues to slide, with the confidence index falling to 36.0.
Despite a temporary bounce in the overall economy, these headwinds indicate that many rural landowners and investors may need to brace for a cooling land market in the near term.
Iowa
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RMI: 49.7 (↓ from 51.0)
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Farmland Price Index: 46.3 (↑ from 39.3)
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Hiring Index: 43.0 (↓ from 44.8)
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Export Trends: Ag and livestock exports rose by $89.5 million, a 12.0% increase.
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Top Export Destination: Mexico (74.5%)
Takeaway: Iowa is one of the few states seeing export growth, but farmland prices remain under pressure. The positive trade trend could offer some future stability.
Contact us for a free market analysis of farms that have recently sold in your area at 515-537-6633 or [email protected]
For more detailed information, visit the Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Economy page.
Farmland Market Update: Mid-Year 2025 Outlook
Compared to this time last year, Iowa’s farmland market has remained relatively stable through mid-2025. While market conditions have softened slightly year-over-year, one key signal of resilience is the low number of “no sales” in the first half of the year—a strong indicator that buyer demand is still present and values have held firm.
That said, we continue to see a gradual three-year downward trend in auction volume, total acres sold, and commodity prices. Since the market peaked in mid-2022, farmland values measured by dollars per CSR2 point have declined just 7.7%, even as corn prices have dropped by 44%. To put that in perspective, during the last significant market correction in 2013–2014, land prices declined by around 20%.
A year ago, a higher frequency of “no sales” pointed toward the potential for a major correction, but instead, land values have largely leveled off. Looking ahead to the next 6 to 12 months, we don’t expect farmland prices to rise. At most, the market may soften slightly, but with limited inventory and strong cash positions across rural America, a sharp 20% decline seems unlikely.
For landowners considering a sale in the next couple of months, now is a good time to assess the market. The current combination of tight supply and optimism for a solid fall harvest should continue to support land values. Listing sooner rather than later could be a smart move for those looking to take advantage of today’s stable pricing environment.
Jason J Smith
Auctioneer & Land Broker
Jason is an experienced farmland broker and auctioneer with extensive experience in farmland sales across this Midwest. Jason has worked with hundreds of clients to create advantageous outcomes. If you are selling land schedule a consultation with Jason by calling or using the calendar.
Phone: 515-537-6633 Email: [email protected]
Recent Farmland Sales Data
Let’s dive into the latest sales data, including county location, land size by acre amount, soil productivity ratings, and sale prices per acre and total price in the table below. By analyzing this data, you can get a clearer picture of how your property may be valued in the current market.
Current Average Price Per Acre of Farmland in Iowa Sold By Auction
- In the month of July, a total of 1,687.11 acres of 80% of more tillable farmland was sold in Iowa by the auction method.
- The current average per acre price for land in Iowa according to June Auction sales is $12,133 per acre
- The highest dollars per acre tillable farm in Iowa that sold this month by auction was sold on July 18th in Linn County for $17,700/acre. This 115.89 acre farm is 94% tillable and has a 93.8 CSR2 rating which calculates to be $189/CSR2.
- See full results from all tracts of farmland that sold in table at end of the page.
- See how these averages compared to last month and a year ago below in next section below to see trend line history.
Current Farmland Prices in Iowa: A 12-Month Overview
Check out the accompanying graph for insights into Iowa farmland prices over the past year. In July, the average price per tillable acre—based on farms that were 80% or more tillable and sold at auction—increased from $11,323/acre to $12,133/acre. For comparison, the average price a year ago was $11,009 per acre.
The 12-month rolling average price per acre in Iowa now stands at $12,126/acre.
If you’re considering selling your farm, reach out to us for an expert opinion on its current market value.
Monthly Number of Acres Sold At Auction 80% or more Tillable Farms
In July, 1,687.11 acres of farmland were sold at auction—down from June. Last year 2,279 acres were sold in July. This seasonal dip is common as many farmers focus on planting. Still, farmland continues to sell successfully year-round—even with a crop in the ground. There’s no need to wait until after harvest!
If selling is on your mind, now is a great time to start the conversation. Our team is here to guide you through your options with expert support every step of the way. Just fill out this short form, and one of our experienced auctioneers or land brokers will be in touch soon!
Monthly Iowa Auction Results: Average Price Per CSR2 Point
The average price per CSR2 point in July was $152— $9 from June.
For comparison, the average was $160 per CSR2 point this time last year, while the 12-month rolling average sits at $160.72
CSR2 is a key metric used to assess soil productivity and plays a major role in determining your farm’s value. If you’re unsure of your farm’s CSR2 rating, we’re happy to help. Reach out for a free soil map and evaluation—especially if you’re considering selling farmland in Iowa.
Recently Sold Land in Iowa Price Results
| Date | County | Acres | $/acre | Total | Tillable Acres | $/tillable acre | % Tillable | CSR2 | $/CSR2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7/10/2025 | O'Brien | 151.47 | $14,000 | $2,120,580 | 143.17 | $14,812 | 94.52 | 93.1 | $150 |
| 7/11/2025 | Hardin | 151 | $15,400 | $2,325,400 | 148.4 | $15,670 | 98.28 | 87.3 | $176 |
| 7/11/2025 | Hardin | 75 | $14,400 | $1,080,000 | 71.49 | $15,107 | 95.32 | 83.7 | $172 |
| 7/11/2025 | Hardin | 80 | $15,000 | $1,200,000 | 79 | $15,190 | 98.75 | 84.8 | $177 |
| 7/15/2025 | Marshall | 160 | $14,500 | $2,320,000 | 152.66 | $15,197 | 95.41 | 86 | $169 |
| 7/16/2025 | Tama | 160 | $10,800 | $1,728,000 | 139.32 | $12,403 | 87.08 | 87.7 | $123 |
| 7/17/2025 | Greene | 153.75 | $14,400 | $2,214,000 | 147.95 | $14,965 | 96.23 | 87.2 | $165 |
| 7/18/2025 | Marshall | 94 | $12,400 | $1,165,600 | 91.75 | $12,704 | 97.61 | 68.6 | $181 |
| 7/18/2025 | Linn | 115.89 | $17,700 | $2,051,253 | 109.03 | $18,814 | 94.08 | 93.8 | $189 |
| 7/23/2025 | Buchanan | 80 | $9,100 | $728,000 | 78.31 | $9,296 | 97.89 | 55.5 | $164 |
| 7/24/2025 | Dallas | 40 | $9,600 | $384,000 | 36.47 | $10,529 | 91.18 | 85.9 | $112 |
| 7/25/2025 | Wright | 80 | $7,200 | $576,000 | 78.5 | $7,338 | 98.13 | 54.4 | $132 |
| 7/25/2025 | Wright | 40 | $4,500 | $180,000 | 38.66 | $4,656 | 96.65 | 48.6 | $93 |
| 7/25/2025 | Hardin | 226 | $12,900 | $2,915,400 | 218.07 | $13,369 | 96.49 | 83.8 | $154 |
| 7/25/2025 | Hardin | 80 | $10,100 | $808,000 | 70.46 | $11,467 | 88.08 | 78.7 | $128 |
| Averages/Totals | 1,687.11 | $12,133 | $21,796,233 | 1603.24 | $12,768 | 95.04 | 78.61 | $152 |
Navigating the Selling Process:
Tips for Selling Your Farm in Iowa
Explore a set of practical tips for successfully selling your farmland by downloading our free eBooks here. Schedule a non obligatory consultation with us today and we will cover everything from when is the best time to sell, a customized marketing plan, sales methods, how we can help you find the right buyer, and answer your questions.
Farm Real Estate Experts in Iowa
Meet our team of Iowa farm real estate and auction experts who can provide you with valuable guidance and personalized assistance throughout the selling process. If you’re looking to uncover the true value of your Iowa farm or are considering selling, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team. We’re here to provide you with a customized plan to meet your goals. Contact us today to get started.
Assessing Your Farm’s Worth:
Iowa Land Market Analysis Appraisal Technique
Curious what your farm could sell for? We prepare market analysis for each of our farmland sellers to help you discover and learn what your farm is worth from our market based research and expertise. Fill out our form here to request a market analysis of your Iowa farmland.