Iowa farm troubles continue with a 24% decline in income projected for 2026, report shows
Source: By Donnelle Eller, Des Moines Register • Posted: Saturday, November 8, 2025
Iowa’s farm troubles are expected to continue next year, with agricultural income tumbling 24%, a new report shows. The steep drop would extend a three-year downturn for corn and soybean growers that’s rippled through the state’s economy, including thousands of layoffs in ag-related manufacturing.
The University of Missouri report released last month forecasts Iowa farm income to fall nearly to $9.33 billion in 2026, down $3 billion from this year as high production cost continue, accompanied by cuts in government assistance and a reduction in the value of previously harvested but yet-unsold corn, soybeans and other farm goods. That’s despite the report showing small improvements in corn and soybean prices next year, along with stable livestock returns.