What's the Cheapest State to Buy a Small Farm? (and 9 More)

Looking for a small farm without breaking the bank? Buying a small farm in one of the cheapest states can be an affordable investment with a lot of potential. Here, we'll look at ten states and what makes them great locations to purchase a small farm, as well as the costs associated with each.

The cheapest state to buy a small farm is Iowa, where land can cost $1,000 per acre depending on various factors, such as location, size, and the types of amenities included. Other states to buy affordably include Mississippi, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

If you're looking to downsize or upgrade, consider these ten states that are budget-friendly for your small farm. It is also possible to find great deals in other states, so be sure to research your options.

10 Cheapest States To Buy A Small Farm

Check out this list of the ten cheapest states to buy a small farm in the US. Let's break them down according to location, size, and the types of amenities included.

1. Mississippi made it to the list of the cheapest states to have a small farm

Mississippi is one of the most affordable states in the U.S. to purchase a small farm. On average, a small farm in Mississippi can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $50,000, depending on location, acreage, and amenities. The average cost of a 10-acre farm in Mississippi is approximately $30,000.

In Mississippi, many small farms are available for purchase at a fraction of the cost of other states. The cost of land in Mississippi is comparatively low, and it is easier to find a deal on a farm in Mississippi than in other states. There are many rural areas in Mississippi where land is available for sale at prices that are below the national average.

2. Arkansas is one of the cheapest states to buy a small farm

Arkansas is one of the most affordable states to purchase a small farm. The average cost of a small farm in Arkansas is approximately $450,000. This is significantly lower than the national average of $619,000.

The cost of land in Arkansas is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to start a small farm. Also, Arkansas has a low cost of living, which helps offset the cost of purchasing a small farm.

In addition to the low cost of purchasing a small farm in Arkansas, property taxes are also relatively low. Property taxes in Arkansas are based on the assessed value of a property and are typically around 0.5% of the assessed value.

3. Kansas is one of the most affordable states to have small farms

Kansas is a great state for individuals looking to purchase a small farm. The state is known for its affordable cost of living and the lower cost of agricultural land. The average cost of a small farm in Kansas is around $2,500 per acre, which is significantly less than the national average of $3,500 per acre.

The cost of a small farm in Kansas depends mainly on the size and location of the property. Smaller properties are typically less expensive, while larger properties are more expensive. Prices also vary depending on whether the property is used for farming or not.

4. Iowa offers the cheapest price range for small farms

Iowa is one of the most affordable states to buy a small farm. The average cost of a small farm in Iowa is approximately $1,000 per acre. This is significantly lower than the national average of $3,090 per acre. Iowa's low cost of living and agriculture-friendly climate make it an attractive option for those looking to start a small farm.

Iowa offers numerous opportunities for small farmers to make a living. Many of these opportunities are available in the form of government grants, tax incentives, and low-interest loans. Additionally, Iowa is home to a wide variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, hay, and oats. This makes it easy to diversify crops and increase the profitability of the farm.

5. Missouri has numerous cheapest small farms

Missouri is one of the most affordable states to buy a small farm. The average cost of a small farm in Missouri is around $275,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of $400,000.

The cost of a small farm in Missouri varies based on size, location, and other factors. Generally, small farms of up to 20 acres with basic amenities can be purchased for around $200,000. Larger farms with more amenities can cost up to $500,000.

There are numerous small farms located throughout the state that are perfect for hobbyists or those looking to make a living off the land. Missouri is also home to many agricultural universities, which offer educational and research opportunities for aspiring farmers.

6. South Dakota is a popular choice if you're looking for the cheapest small farms

South Dakota is a great state for those looking to purchase a small farm. With a relatively low cost of living, it’s one of the most affordable states in the country to buy a small farm. The average cost of a small farm in South Dakota is approximately $120,000.

In comparison to other states, South Dakota is quite inexpensive when it comes to purchasing land. The state has some agricultural subsidies and loan programs that make it easier to purchase a farm. This is why it’s a popular choice for those looking to buy a farm on a budget.

The cost of a small farm in South Dakota can vary depending on the size, location, and amenities included. A small farm of 10–20 acres typically costs between $50,000 and $100,000 in South Dakota, while larger farms can cost up to $200,000.

7. Nebraska has small farms that are lower than the national average

Nebraska is one of the most affordable states in the US when it comes to buying a small farm. The average cost of a small farm in Nebraska is around $200,000. This is a fraction of the cost of larger farms in other parts of the country. Nebraska’s rural landscape and economic incentives make it a great place for small farmers looking to get started.

In Nebraska, small farms typically range in size from 5 to 50 acres. The average cost per acre of a small farm in Nebraska is around $3,500, significantly lower than the national average of $7,000 per acre.

Additionally, the cost of farmland has remained relatively stable in Nebraska since the early 2000s. This means that small farmers have an excellent opportunity to purchase quality land at a reasonable price.

8. Oklahoma has low-interest loans to small farms that make it one of the cheapest

Oklahoma is one of the most affordable places to purchase a small farm in the United States. According to the American Farmland Trust, the average cost of a small farm in Oklahoma is $1,600 per acre. This is significantly lower than the national average of $3,460 per acre.

Small farms in Oklahoma are typically between 10 and 80 acres in size and are typically used for cattle, sheep, and poultry production. Additionally, the state's Farm Service Agency assists farmers with low-interest loans and other financial aid.

9. Tennessee has low-cost land prices that make it one of the cheapest

Tennessee is one of the best places to buy a small farm due to its relatively low cost of living and land prices. On average, the cost of a small farm in Tennessee is around $300,000. This is significantly lower than the national average of $500,000.

Tennessee is also known for its fertile land, which is suitable for growing a variety of crops. The state offers a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, which are all ideal for growing a range of crops. The climate in Tennessee is also suitable for growing crops, with warm summers and cold winters.

10. West Virginia has the cheapest land options available

In West Virginia, a small farm with this amount of land can be purchased for as little as $15,000. The average price of a small farm with the amount of land available in West Virginia is around $50,000. The state has a wide variety of land options available, from wooded and rolling hills to flat and open fields. West Virginia also offers some of the lowest taxes in the nation, making it an attractive option for potential buyers.