Off-farm income keeps farmers farming

Daniel Munch American Farm Bureau Federation
Apr 30, 2025
Apr 30, 2025

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Daniel Munch American Farm Bureau Federation

When most people picture a farmer, they don’t envision someone teaching math, driving a school bus or managing a bank branch. Yet for the majority of U.S. farm households, income from off-farm roles is what keeps the operation running. In 2023 just 23 percent of farm-household income for farm families came from farming itself – meaning a remarkable 77 percent came from other sources. This Market Intel explores the essential – but often overlooked – role of off-farm income in supporting farm families, buffering against market volatility and sustaining rural livelihoods. We also examine why public policy must recognize and support this dual-reliance model to ensure the long-term viability of U.S. agriculture.

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