Franklin County, Indiana
2024 Land Sales Report

According to Land.com, Franklin County, Indiana, recently had about 2,000 acres of farms, hunting properties, and rural land listed for sale, totaling nearly $31 million in value. When it comes to land listings across the state, Franklin County ranks 39th for total acreage currently on the market. Brookville stood out with the most properties for sale in the area. Covering around 391 square miles, Franklin County is the 54th largest county in Indiana and sits in the southeastern part of the state, offering a mix of scenic countryside and small-town charm.

The most recent USDA farmland census reveals that Franklin County is home to 683 farms managing approximately 144,173 acres–a modest increase from previous census–with an average farm size of about 211 acres. Of that acreage, roughly 100,256 acres are in cropland, while the remaining land is used for pasture, woodland, and farm infrastructure. The county’s agriculture is strongly crop-centered, with about 88% of farm income derived from crop production and the rest from livestock and related activities. Conservation practices are fairly widespread: 28% of farms use no-till, 19% reduced tillage, 19% intensive till, and 10% incorporate cover crops to help preserve soil health.

Overview of Franklin County Agriculture

Location and Geography: Franklin County is located in southeastern Indiana, bordering Ohio to the east. Its rolling hills, fertile valleys, and proximity to the Whitewater River make it a scenic and agriculturally rich area, with a mix of cropland, pasture, and forested land.

Major Crops: 

1. Corn: a leading crop in Franklin County, widely planted for both grain and livestock feed due to its adaptability and high yield potential.
2. Soybeans: another dominant crop, valued for their versatility and strong market demand both locally and globally.
3. Hay: commonly produced in Franklin County, especially in hillier or pasture-based areas, to support local cattle and livestock operations.
4. Wheat: grown on a smaller scale, often used in crop rotations to maintain soil health and provide diversification.

Franklin County, Indiana is home to a strong agricultural tradition, with a landscape well-suited for crop production and livestock operations. Corn and soybeans are the dominant crops, thanks to the county’s fertile soils and favorable growing conditions. Hay is also widely produced to support local livestock, and wheat is grown in rotation to promote soil health and crop diversity. Many farms in the area are multi-generational, contributing to a close-knit rural community with deep roots in agriculture.

The demand for rural land in Franklin County reflects both its agricultural value and its appeal for recreation and country living. Rolling hills, wooded tracts, and open farmland make the area attractive to a wide range of buyers, from traditional farmers to those seeking hunting properties or rural homesteads. Brookville, in particular, has become a hotspot for available listings, likely due to its location and amenities. Overall, Franklin County remains a steady and appealing market for both working farmland and rural real estate.

History & Background of Franklin County, Indiana

County Seat: Brookville

Townships: Bath / Blooming Grove / Brookville / Butler / Fairfield / Highland / Laurel / Metamora / Posey / Ray / Salt Creek / Springfield / Whitewater

History: Established in 1811; Named for Benjamin Franklin.

Population: 23,096

Cities & Towns: Brookville / Batesville / Cedar Grove / Laurel / Mount Carmel / Oldenburg / West Harrison

Acreage: 239,000

According to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the following crop statistics have been reported for Franklin County, Indiana.

The 2022 Ag Census for Franklin County, Indiana, reported the following crop statistics: