Best States for Buying Affordable Farmland: Why Kansas and Missouri Stand Out

By
September 23, 2025

Farmland Buying Tips

As the demand for rural living, hobby farming, and agricultural investments continues to rise, many buyers are asking: Where can I find quality farmland at a reasonable price? While land prices have increased in some areas, states like Kansas and Missouri remain top contenders for affordable, productive farmland. Here are five reasons why:


1. Competitive Price Per Acre

Compared to coastal or heavily populated regions, Kansas and Missouri offer some of the most affordable price-per-acre farmland in the country. In many counties, you can still find tillable or pasture ground under $5,000 per acre—sometimes significantly less. This makes both states attractive to first-time buyers, investors, and expanding farmers alike.


2. Strong Agricultural Roots

Kansas and Missouri are agricultural powerhouses. Kansas is known for wheat, corn, and cattle production, while Missouri excels in soybeans, hay, and livestock. This rich agricultural heritage means the land is not only affordable—but productive, with access to experienced labor, established markets, and ag-based infrastructure.


3. Central Location & Market Access

Both states are centrally located in the U.S., making them ideal for transporting goods and livestock. With proximity to key rail lines, interstates, and river ports (like the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers), farmers and agribusinesses can efficiently reach markets across the Midwest and beyond.


4. Variety of Land Types

From gently rolling pastures in the Flint Hills of Kansas to fertile bottomlands along the Missouri River, buyers have options. Whether you're seeking grazing land, row crop acreage, or a quiet homestead with a few acres for a hobby farm, Kansas and Missouri offer diverse topographies and soil types that meet a wide range of farming goals.


5. Favorable Tax & Cost of Living Environments

Both states boast low cost of living and relatively low property taxes, especially in rural areas. Combined with agricultural exemptions and incentive programs, buyers can often stretch their budgets further in Kansas and Missouri than in other farming regions.


Thinking about investing in farmland?
Whether you're starting small or expanding your operation, Kansas and Missouri continue to be two of the best states for finding high-quality, affordable farmland.

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