Biggest Cash Crops in the Leading Agricultural States
From the country’s inception, agriculture has been the cornerstone of the US economy. With states contributing crops native to their region based on climate, soil, and resources, the nation bases much of its economic growth on the production of cash crops with essential farming equipment. Here are the biggest cash crops in some of the nation’s most agriculturally productive states, along with highlights of their economic significance in each region.
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Midwest States: Corn and Soybean Production
The Midwest of the US is the agricultural powerhouse for the production of many crops, and this region dominates the corn and soybean industry. These are a few of the states that are instrumental in their production.
Iowa & Illinois
Anyone who has taken a road trip through Iowa and Illinois can easily see why these states are the heart of corn production in the US, however it’s not just corn that keeps agricultural workers busy during harvesting season. In 2022, Illinois led the nation in soybean production and ranked second in corn production. Combined, these two crops accounted for over half of the US cash crop production, totaling $148.5 billion in profits for the year.
Nebraska & Minnesota
Nebraska and Minnesota also play a vital role in grain and oilseed production. In 2022, Nebraska’s agricultural output in grains, oilseeds, dry beans, and dry peas was valued at $10.7 billion, while Minnesota’s stood at $12.3 billion.
Cash Crop Production by Individual States
California: Fruit and Tree Nut Production
California’s diverse climate is the perfect setting for fruit, tree nut, and berry production. With an output valued at $17.6 billion, California is a leader in the production of these cash crops. The state produces 100% of the US commercial almond supply, exporting $4.9 billion worth in 2019. Grapes and strawberries are also a major earning crop for the state, where production is valued at $5.8 billion and $3.1 billion, respectively.
Wisconsin: Dairy Industry
Wisconsin is a state that prides itself in their booming dairy industry, which is why many of the residents and football fans here have embraced the moniker “Cheesehead.” The state produces about a quarter of America’s cheese and ranks second in milk production. Wisconsin’s dairy products are valued at $4.95 billion. Additionally, the state leads in the production of cranberries, ginseng, and snap beans for processing.
Washington: Apple Production
In the pacific northwest region of the US, Washington state leads the country in apple production, accounting for 71.1% of the nation’s output. Additionally, the state’s fruit, tree nut, and berry production is valued at around $2.93 billion. Other significant crops coming out of Washington include sweet cherries and pears.
Arizona: Winter Vegetable Harvest
Arizona’s warm climate allows for year-round vegetable production of many crops that other states’ climates can only support part of the year. Yuma County is known as the “Winter Lettuce Capital of the World,” contributing $566.8 million. Additionally, the state’s vegetable, melon, potato, and sweet potato production is valued at $764 million.
Florida: Citrus Production
Florida leads US citrus production, especially with oranges that are used primarily for the manufacturing of orange juice. Florida’s fruit, tree nut, and berry production is valued at $1.85 billion. Other crops coming out of the state include bell peppers, tomatoes, and sugarcane.
Georgia: Poultry and Peanuts
Georgia is one of the top producers of poultry and eggs, where the goods are valued at $4.77 billion. The state also leads in peanut production, contributing 53% of the US peanut supply in 2023. Cotton remains an essential cash crop, with Georgia producing roughly 18% of the country’s 12.4 million bales each year.
Texas: Cattle and Cotton
With millions of cattle in the state, Texas is the leader in the nation in cattle and calf production, valued at around $13 billion. This accounts for roughly 14% of the country’s total cattle. Texas also has the largest cotton acreage in the US, with significant increases noted in recent years.
New York & Pennsylvania: Dairy Industry
New York and Pennsylvania are major dairy producers, with milk from cows valued at $2.42 billion for New York, and $1.97 billion for Pennsylvania. Both states also contribute to the country’s fruit and vegetable production, including apples and mushrooms.
North Carolina: Poultry Production
North Carolina’s poultry and egg industry is valued at $4.84 billion, making it one of the top producers in the US. The state also produces significant quantities of sweet potatoes and tobacco.
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The United States’ agricultural landscape is a coast-to-coast operation that is essential to the economic growth of the country. With each state uniquely contributing to the food supply and economy, farming is a core industry in the US and the backbone of our nation. Understanding these regional specialties highlights the importance of the continued support of agricultural practices across the country.
Anna Cecilia Tozzi
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