Iowa sits between the Mississippi River on the east and the Missouri and Big Sioux rivers on the west. The ground between them was built on deep prairie soils formed over thousands of years. Most of the state drains well and supports consistent corn and soybean production.

Where Iowa’s Best Farmland Sits

Over 85 percent of Iowa’s land area is used for agriculture. Central and northern counties hold some of the most productive cropland in the Midwest. Southern regions blend row crop acres with hardwood timber and creek systems. Ground with both tillable acres and timber draws attracts buyers looking at recreational opportunities that generate dual income streams.

At High Point, we see buyers choose farms for sale in Iowa because the ground has proven itself through decades of market shifts. Iowa leads the nation in corn production and ranks near the top for soybeans, cattle, and hogs. Live bidding at upcoming farm auctions creates price transparency that private sales cannot match.

What Drives Iowa Farm Prices

  • Northwest Iowa: Highest priced because of soil quality and yield consistency
  • South Central Iowa: More accessible for buyers wanting income plus outdoor use
  • CSR2 ratings: Drive value more than any other factor
  • Tile and drainage: Can add significant value per acre

Agriculture provides over 22 percent of Iowa’s total economic output and supports more than 385,000 jobs. Nearly all farms are family-operated. When we walk a farm, we look at soil maps, drainage systems, tile condition, and field access. What buyers should consider before purchasing farmland includes more than just soil scores.

How Iowa Farm Auctions Work

A significant portion of Iowa farmland sales happens through public auction. Competitive bidding leads to accurate price discovery, especially for high-quality tillable land. Reserve auctions remain the most common format. Buyers register in advance, conduct due diligence, and secure financing before auction day. Ground along major highways occasionally transitions to commercial land for sale as towns expand outward.