Illinois Real Estate

Explore Your Land Investment Options in the Prairie State

Illinois Farmland: A Landowner's Guide to the Prairie State

Illinois, the “Prairie State,” is a land of agricultural abundance and economic opportunity. With its vast expanses of fertile farmland, diverse agricultural production, and thriving rural communities, Illinois offers an attractive market for landowners and land investors. 

This guide delves into Illinois’ history, population, major cities, farmland, and recreational opportunities, helping land buyers and sellers make informed decisions about their Illinois property.

• Illinois’ Historical Background

  Illinois was first inhabited by Native Americans of the Mississippian culture, who developed robust, fortified cities with temple mounds and advanced agricultural methods. Tribes like the Miami and Illiniwek had lived on the land for centuries when Europeans first reached the state in the late 17th century. The state’s fertile prairies and favorable climate quickly attracted farmers, and agriculture soon became the cornerstone of Illinois’ economy. Major rivers border and cross throughout the state, which have defined the state’s trade routes and ecosystem for centuries. Today, fertile soil remains one of Illinois’ most valuable natural resources, and the state is renowned for its corn and soybean production and its contribution to the nation’s food security.

• Illinois’ Population and Major Cities

  As of 2024, Illinois boasts a diverse population of nearly 12.7 million people, with a mix of urban and rural communities. Chicago, the state’s largest city, is a global commerce, culture, and innovation hub. Other major cities include Springfield, the state capital, known for its historical significance and political activity; Peoria, a manufacturing and healthcare center; and Rockford, a manufacturing and aerospace epicenter. Rural communities often look to their county seats, usually smaller towns, to serve as centers of local government and community life.

  According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, top agricultural counties in Illinois include: 

  • LaSalle County (seat: Ottawa, Illinois) has significant acreage dedicated to corn, soybeans, and livestock, and produces a high market value of agricultural products.
  • Iroquois County (seat: Watseka, Illinois) has vast acreage dedicated to grain production. 
  • McLean County (seat: Bloomington, Illinois), which has extensive farmland acreage and high market values, driven by corn and soybeans.
  • Livingston County (seat: Pontiac, Illinois), a county also strong in both market value for corn and soybeans, and high farm acreage.
  • Champaign County (seat: Urbana, Illinois), producing strong market value with substantial acreage dedicated to a mix of grain crops and livestock. 

• What is Illinois’ Farmland Like?

  Illinois’ fertile soil and varied climate support a diverse range of crops. Corn and soybeans are the dominant crops, and wheat, hay, oats and livestock products also popular crops. Specialty crops like buckwheat, horseradish, Christmas trees, apples, and pumpkins are also produced in the state. Illinois has 72,000 farms that span 27 million acres, or 75% of the state’s total land area. 

  In national rankings, Illinois is the

  • #1 producer of soybeans;
  • #1 state for pumpkin acreage; 
  • #1 producer of horseradish (producing more than two-thirds of the country’s supply);
  • #1 in nation for processed food sales;
  • #2 producer of corn; and
  • Supplier of 15% of soybeans in the U.S. and 13% of corn in the U.S.

  Illinois boasts some of the most fertile soils in the world, with rich, dark prairie soils dominating much of the landscape. The state’s central area has soils particularly well-suited for agriculture, causing the state to rank third nationally in total prime farmland acreage. These soils, combined with the state’s favorable climate of cold, dry winters and warm, humid summers with significant rainfall, contribute to its high agricultural productivity. Illinois’ central location in the country gives it another competitive advantage in the agriculture industry, connecting the eastern and western sides of the country with a robust transportation system that spans interstates, rail, airports, and waterways.

  Farmland-specific businesses thrive in Illinois, providing essential services to the agricultural community. Illinois has 2,640 food manufacturing companies that turn the state’s crops into food and industrial products, translating into $180 billion in processed food sales. Illinois is also known for seed corn research and development, with businesses specializing in seed breeding, testing, and processing. Agricultural equipment powerhouses John Deere and Case IH have their roots in Illinois. The biofuel industry also supports Illinois agriculture, with several ethanol plants in the state, as well as biofuel supply chain businesses like corn transport and biofuel technology R&D. 

  The state also hosts a bevy of common agricultural support businesses like grain elevators, farm equipment dealerships, seed and fertilizer suppliers, and agricultural cooperatives. Together, businesses play a crucial role in supporting Illinois’ farming industry and ensuring its continued success.

• What Kind of Outdoor Recreation is There in Illinois?

  Illinois offers abundant recreational hunting opportunities, attracting enthusiasts from across the region. White-tailed deer and eastern-strain wild turkeys are popular, and archery, firearm, and muzzleloader seasons are available. Illinois also has great hunting for pheasant, bobwhite quail, rabbits, squirrels, coyotes, foxes, waterfowl, and doves.

  With abundant waterways, Illinois has a varied assortment of fishing sites, including rivers, smaller lakes and ponds, and Lake Michigan. A diverse assortment of species can be caught, with walleye and sauger available in the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, and bass, crappie, and bluegill being fished out of lakes and ponds. Anglers can visit Lake Michigan for the chance to catch salmon and trout. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources stocks trout streams and enables ample public access to keep the state angler-friendly. 

  The state’s diverse landscape provides a variety of hunting and fishing environments, with a robust collection of public hunting sites. Hunting is popular at Shawnee National Forest, Rend Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area, and Ray Norbut State Fishing and Wildlife Area. Hunting licenses and permits are required, and hunters must adhere to state regulations and seasons.

• Buying Land in Illinois

  Illinois offers a compelling opportunity for land buyers seeking highly productive farmland. The state’s renowned prairie soils, particularly in the northern and central regions, deliver exceptional yields for corn and soybean production. Beyond fertile ground, Illinois boasts a robust agricultural infrastructure, including grain elevators, transportation networks, and access to the Mississippi River for efficient crop transportation. This, coupled with a strong tenant pool, makes Illinois farmland ideal for both seasoned farmers and investors seeking stable returns. 

  However, discerning buyers should carefully evaluate the impact of urban sprawl on specific areas and be mindful of potential variations in property tax rates. Collaborating with Hageman Realty helps buyers access our in-depth knowledge of Illinois’s agricultural landscape to help navigate these complexities and identify the right land opportunities for long-term success.

  With Hageman Realty as your partner, you can confidently navigate the complexities of land ownership and achieve your goals, whether you’re a seasoned farmer expanding your operation or a family seeking a peaceful escape in the Illinois countryside.

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