The 2025 Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll is shedding new light on the financial pressures and policy uncertainties confronting Iowa farmers. The annual survey, conducted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Sociology, gathered responses from nearly 950 farmers and highlights persistent concerns about volatile markets, rising input costs and the long-term effects of agricultural specialization.
According to the survey, nearly all respondents reported that input costs such as seed, fertilizer and chemicals rise faster when profit margins improve, yet decline slowly when commodity prices fall. Eighty-eight percent said profit margins on corn and soybeans are eroded more quickly than in the past, underscoring a continued cost-price squeeze. Economic uncertainty remains widespread, with 85% agreeing that boom-bust commodity cycles are difficult on farm operations and 69% saying they sometimes feel they have little control over profitability.
The poll also found concern about federal policy, as 64% of farmers worry about potential changes to the Farm Bill. Structural issues remain prominent as well, with 69% agreeing that increased specialization in corn, soybeans and hogs has contributed to the loss of farms.
Alongside the findings, ISU Extension Behavioral Health Specialist David Brown emphasized the importance of mental-health resources for farmers facing mounting stress.
Full press release here
