Linking the Price of Agricultural Land to Use Values and Amenities

Abstract

In many areas throughout the United States, the market value of agricultural land exceeds its use value in agricultural production. This deviation is the result of many factors, including urban influence, recreation, mineral extraction, and other natural amenities. This study examines the drivers of the nonagricultural portion of cropland and pastureland values across the United States using a rich geospatial data framework linked to the USDA’s June Area Survey. The analysis suggests that many natural amenities and urban pressures shape the value of US cropland and pastureland, and that development potential is the largest driver of the nonagricultural component of farmland values.