Indiana Real Estate

Explore Your Land Investment Options in the Hoosier State

Indiana: A Landowner's Guide to the Crossroads of America

Indiana, known as the “Crossroads of America,” is a state rich in agricultural heritage and natural beauty. From fertile plains to rolling hills, Indiana offers a diverse landscape that supports a thriving agricultural industry and provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

This guide explores the state’s history, population, major cities, farmland, and recreational opportunities, offering insights for rural landowners and those exploring land investment opportunities in Indiana.

• A Brief History of Indiana

  For thousands of years, the state now known as Indiana was inhabited by Native American tribes, including parts of the Hopewell Tradition and, later, the Miami and Shawnee tribes. When European settlers arrived in the 18th century, they found the state’s soil and favorable climate an ideal location for farming, and agriculture quickly became a strong foundation of Indiana’s economy. Corn and wheat production have long been strongholds in Indiana agriculture, and today, Indiana continues to contribute significantly to the nation’s food supply.

• Indiana’s Population and Major Cities

  As of 2024, Indiana’s population is around 6.8 million people. Major cities include Indianapolis, the state capital, known for its vibrant cultural scene and motorsports heritage; Fort Wayne, a hub for manufacturing and healthcare; and Evansville, a river city with a strong industrial base. County seats, often smaller towns, serve as centers of local government and community life and often have close-knit communities.

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

  • Dubois County (seat: Jasper, Indiana) consistently ranks high in market value, with a focus on poultry and grain production. 
  • Elkhart County (seat: Goshen, Indiana), which has both a high number of farms and market value for their products. Farmers in Elkhart County primarily focus on dairy farming but also produce grain and poultry production. 
  • Jay County (seat: Portland, Indiana), which has strong livestock production and has a high market value of agricultural products sold. 
  • Jasper County (seat: Rensselaer, Indiana), a market value powerhouse with a diverse range of products, including grain crops, livestock, and poultry.
  • LaGrange County (seat: LaGrange, Indiana), which has more farms than any other county in Indiana! Dairy, grain, and poultry are common in LaGrange County. 

  As our home state, Hageman Realty has a particularly deep understanding of the following Indiana counties: 

  • Benton County (seat: Fowler, Indiana): A powerhouse in corn and soybean production, often ranking high in yields. The county also has a growing wind energy sector, with turbines sharing the landscape with farm fields.
  • Boone County (seat: Lebanon, Indiana): A rapidly developing county with a mix of agriculture and suburban growth. Still has significant grain and livestock production, but also known for its agritourism and farmers’ markets.
  • Carroll County (seat: Delphi, Indiana): Known for its large-scale hog production and meat processing industry. Also has significant grain farming, contributing to its strong agricultural economy.
  • Clay County (seat: Brazil, Indiana): Historically known for coal mining, but agriculture remains important. Focuses on grain and livestock production, with some emphasis on beef cattle.
  • Clinton County (seat: Frankfort, Indiana): A strong agricultural county with a mix of grain farming, livestock (hogs and cattle), and some specialty crops.
  • Fountain County (seat: Covington, Indiana): Known for its fertile soil and productive grain farms, with corn and soybeans being the primary crops.
  • Montgomery County (seat: Crawfordsville, Indiana): Home to a mix of grain farming and livestock, with a strong presence of Purdue University’s agricultural research and extension programs.
  • Newton County (seat: Kentland, Indiana): A major player in grain production, with a focus on corn and soybeans. It’s also known for its significant livestock production, particularly hogs and cattle.
  • Owen County (seat: Spencer, Indiana): Known for its scenic hills and forests, with agriculture playing a role in the local economy. Has a mix of grain farming, livestock (beef cattle), and some smaller farms with diversified production.
  • Vigo County (seat: Terre Haute, Indiana): Known for grain farming, livestock, and some fruit and
  • Warren County (seat: Williamsport, Indiana): Predominantly focused on grain production, with corn and soybeans as the main crops.
  • White County (seat: Monticello, Indiana): A diverse agricultural county with a mix of grain farming, livestock (hogs and poultry), and some dairy farms.

• What is Indiana’s Farmland Like?

  Indiana’s fertile soil and diverse climate support a variety of crops and livestock, dominated by corn and soybeans. Other important crops include wheat, hay, and tomatoes. Livestock production is also significant, with hogs, cattle, and poultry being raised throughout the state.

  In national rankings, Indiana is the 

  • #1 producer of ducks;
  • #2 producer of popcorn, chickens, and total eggs;
  • #3 producer of spearmint, tomatoes, and cover crops;
  • #4 producer of pumpkins, peppermint, and turkeys; and
  • #5 producer of corn (for grain), watermelon, and hogs.

  The soil makeup varies across the state, with fertile loam soils common in the central and northern regions and clay and sandy soils in the south. This diversity allows for a range of agricultural practices.

  Farmland-specific service businesses thrive in Indiana, including grain elevators, farm equipment dealerships, seed and fertilizer suppliers, and agricultural cooperatives. These businesses play a vital role in supporting Indiana’s farming industry and ensuring its continued success.

  Indiana’s state and local governments are invested in the success of its agricultural industry.  Agricultural land in Indiana is assessed based on its use value instead of fair market value, which can reduce property taxes for landowners. Right-to-farm laws protect farmers from nuisance lawsuits filed by neighbors over common farming practices. The Indiana State Department of Agriculture provides various grants, loans, and programs supporting farmers, including new farmers’ initiatives, conservation efforts, and agricultural development. Purdue Extension also serves as a valuable resource for Indiana farmers by sharing research-based information and resources on topics like crop production, livestock management, and farm business planning.

• What Kind of Outdoor Recreation is There in Indiana?

  Indiana has a robust hunting culture that attracts hunters from across the country. White-tailed deer are the most popular game animal, with hunting seasons for archery, firearms, and muzzleloader. Other game species include wild turkey, waterfowl, gamebirds (including pheasant, grouse, and quail), small game (including rabbits and squirrels, and furbearers (including foxes, raccoons, opossums, and beaver). 

  The state’s diverse landscape provides a variety of hunting environments, from hardwood and conifer forests and rolling hills to wetlands and agricultural fields. Public hunting is popular at Morgan-Monroe State Forest, Yellowwood State Forest, and Hoosier National Forest, but hunters primarily seek access to private lands for the best hunting experiences. Hunting licenses and permits are required, and hunters must adhere to state regulations and seasons.

  Indiana also boasts excellent fishing opportunities, with numerous lakes, rivers, and streams. Popular species includie largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and walleye. Monroe Lake, Patoka Lake, and the Wabash River are popular fishing destinations, offering diverse habitats and ample shoreline access. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources actively manages fisheries, stocking popular species and providing public access to ensure rewarding experiences for anglers of all skill levels.

• Buying Land in Indiana

  Land buyers in Indiana should be aware of the state’s prime agricultural landscape, characterized by fertile soil and excellent water resources, particularly in the northern and central regions of the state. While row crops dominate the agricultural landscape, there’s also strong potential for recreational land investment. 

  A favorable tax environment and strong tenant pool make Indiana attractive for landowners and investors. However, it’s crucial to consider the impact of urban sprawl on certain areas, and understanding local nuances related to soil types, water rights, and regulations is essential. Partnering with experts with in-depth knowledge of Indiana’s land market can provide valuable guidance throughout the buying process.

  Hageman Realty, with its four generations of deep roots in Indiana and extensive experience in farmland transactions, is committed to providing personalized service and expert guidance to help meet each client’s individual goals and vision. Whether you’re a seasoned landowner or new to Indiana’s agricultural landscape, we are your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of farmland ownership. We’re committed to helping you achieve your goals and secure your future in the Hoosier State.

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