By Jamie Martin
Farmers make many decisions each season, and a new survey from 2024–2025 helps explain how those decisions vary by farm size and type. It also explores how planning affects success.
The survey studies farm business planning, production practices, and food safety. While all respondents grow vegetables, many also raise livestock or grow grains, fruits, and row crops like corn and soybeans.
According to the data, medium-sized farms—those with annual sales between $350,000 and $999,999—tend to farm more land and plan more carefully. They average 381 acres, while small farms average just 85 acres.
Medium-sized farms lead in creating succession or exit plans. About 85% have these plans in place, helping ensure long-term business success. Grain farms also have high succession plan rates, while livestock farms are most often passed down through family.
The survey shows that nearly 67% of farms are considered family farms. Family farm definitions vary, but many farmers define their operation as family-run because they share ownership or manage inherited land with relatives.
Livestock farms show the highest number of generations involved in daily operations. Across all farms, nearly 47% involve two generations, and about 15% involve three.
In terms of reported success, most farmers feel confident about their businesses. On a 1–5 scale, medium-sized farms score the highest at 4.44, while small farms score 4.05. Grain and livestock farmers also report the highest success.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pixdeluxe
Categories: National