By Blake Jackson
Farmland values in Wisconsin continue on a steady upward trend. AgCountry Farm Credit Services reports a 3.10% increase over both the past six and twelve months. Over a two-year period, land values rose 18.40%, and over five and ten years, they increased 34.90% and 42.30%, respectively.
Wisconsin has two benchmark farms appraised every six months. Both showed consistent growth, pointing to a healthy cropland market. The demand for farmland remains strong, even with changing market conditions.
“One contributing factor is that multi-generational farms continue showing up at auctions, looking to convert rented acres into owned land. That steady, competitive demand is what’s kept the market durable, even in the face of higher interest rates and lower commodity prices.” said Mark Vetter, AgCountry’s executive vice president of business development.
“Families are looking to reduce their exposure to the cash rent market, which can carry increasing risk. In our region, cash rents are still lower than in places like Iowa or Nebraska, but yields aren’t far behind – so there’s a clear incentive to lock in ownership now. Many farms are trying to get ahead of future rent increases by securing land while they can.”
This push toward ownership helps reduce long-term risk tied to rental markets. While rents in Wisconsin are more affordable than in some neighboring states, local farmers prefer securing their own land to lock in control and build equity.
Though the state does not have pasture benchmarks, the cropland data reflects overall farmland strength. Wisconsin’s strong agricultural base and stable yields add to the region’s appeal for buyers.
Despite broader market uncertainties like lower commodity prices and higher interest rates, Wisconsin’s farmland values have not only held but continue to rise. This reflects confidence in the long-term value of owning productive farmland.
More details are available at AgCountry’s land report.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Wisconsin, Business