After the natural pause during harvest, the farmland market has picked up quickly. We’re seeing a notable increase in landowners exploring sales across Minnesota, and recent activity provides a clear picture of how different land types are performing.
High-quality farms continue to lead the market.
Well-drained tracts with strong soils (90+ CPI), open field configurations, and good access are still commanding impressive values—generally $12,000–$14,000 per tillable acre in many areas. Buyer demand remains strong for these premium parcels.
Farms with challenges are showing softer values.
Parcels with lower CPI, limited drainage, or less desirable field layouts are experiencing more resistance from buyers, landing closer to the $9,000–$11,000 per tillable acre range. Farms with significant non-tillable acres or low-payment CRP contracts have seen a more noticeable decline in demand.
Recreational land remains steady.
Interest in hunting and recreation properties is still healthy, with recent sales typically ranging from $2,500–$4,000 per acre, depending on habitat quality, access, water features, and program enrollment.
Steady interest in quality homesteads.
Well-maintained homesteads and acreages continue to draw solid interest. Buyers prefer to purchase the home site separately from the farmland, especially when the property features a quality residence and well-kept outbuildings. Quality rural living opportunities remain highly appealing.
Looking ahead.
Seller confidence remains high, especially for top-tier farms. While we remain optimistic about the strength of high-quality land heading into 2026, softer commodity prices and elevated interest rates may continue to tighten the buyer pool—especially for farms with challenges. At this point, we don’t anticipate drastic changes for premium tracts, but the market is clearly more selective than a year ago. If you’ve been considering a sale or evaluating your options, now is a good time to explore strategy. Understanding where your land fits in today’s market can help you make informed decisions.