Location, location, location. In farmland lending, it’s the difference between a high-performing asset and a costly risk. But location alone isn’t enough.
While national or even state-level trends provide insight into the farmland potential, it’s county data that reveals where loans are more secure. According to the latest Growers Edge Farmland Value report, land values across the Midwest are stabilizing after a volatile 2024. But not all counties are performing the same, making it critical to look beyond averages and focus on where land value, crop performance, and rental demand are thriving.
In this article, we’re covering what lenders should look for when identifying low-risk lending zones that show the most stability in the Midwest.
What Lenders Should Look for in Midwest Farmland
A strong portfolio is a portfolio that minimizes lending risks. To build one lenders should focus on zones with:
- Stable or appreciating farmland values
- Consistent crop performance and strong soil productivity
- Healthy rental income and tenant demand
- Access to infrastructure and agricultural marketing
- Minimal exposure to climate risk, regulatory shifts, and market volatility
County-level valuation trends and performance data reveal where opportunities offer steady returns and limited downside risk.
Where Are the Stable Counties for Safe Loan Underwriting in the Midwest?
The latest Growers Edge Farmland Value report highlights several midwest counties that are ideal for value stability, crop reliability, and the best market conditions.
Those low-risk lending zones in the Midwest include:
Story County, Iowa
After a brief dip in 2024, land values stabilized in 2025. Strong yields and tenant demand make this a consistent performer.
Olmsted County, Minnesota
Moderate appreciation, steady rental income, and diverse crops contribute to reduced volatility and increased lending confidence.
Hall County, Nebraska
Reliable value trends and strong infrastructure access make Hall a low-risk, high-performance county.
McLean County, Illinois
With minimal price volatility and strong productivity, McLean County continues to attract stable, long-term investment opportunities.
Risk Management Tips For 2025 and Beyond
In 2025, smart lenders are leaning on data to make decisions. That’s because low-risk farmland lending zones aren’t defined by price alone; they are shaped by stability, productivity, and performance that can be sustained.
With data that dives into county-level trends, soil quality, historical yield performance, rental income strength, and infrastructure insights, lenders can underwrite with confidence. Farmland Intel provides the data lenders need to reduce risk and increase repayment reliability. From local trends to land fundamentals, its land valuation tool delivers the insights that matter most.
