Family Farms Keep American Agriculture Alive

Small and Mid-size Farms Face Challenges but Remain Central to U.S. Farming

Despite frequent mentions of “big ag,” American agriculture remains rooted in families. According to USDA data, 95% of farms in the U.S. are family-owned. Many have operated for generations, while others are just starting out.

Though some farms adopt different business structures like C-corporations for planning purposes, the core remains family-driven.

Less than 0.1% of farms are run by outside corporations. Half of agricultural land is both owned and rented, and many non-farming landlords are former farmers themselves.

Keeping farms alive is growing harder. Only 23% of farms earn enough through farming alone, with most families depending on off-farm income. In 2023, the U.S. lost 15,000 farms due to rising costs, labour shortages, and outdated tools. 

That’s why the American Farm Bureau is pushing for more support, especially for beginning and small farms.

Young farmers often start small and face major barriers. Farm Bureau’s policies reflect the voice of grassroots farmers—97% from family farms and about two-thirds from small to mid-size operations.

“The United States’ relationships with Italian buyers and consumers foster tens of billions in bilateral trade and investment. However, U.S. agricultural stakeholders have been unfairly left behind for far too long,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.

Food security depends on farms of all sizes. With less land and more people to feed, America needs every farmer. Family farms—big and small—are working hard to ensure safe, healthy food reaches all tables.