Douglas County, Illinois
2024 Land Sales Report

According to Land.com, about 240 acres of farms and rural land were listed for sale in Douglas County, Illinois, with Camargo having the most available properties. Douglas County ranks 59th out of 102 counties in the state when it comes to the total acreage currently on the market. The county covers around 417 square miles, making it the 72nd largest in Illinois, and is situated right in the heart of Central Illinois. While agriculture is important, manufacturing and related services are actually the biggest contributors to the local economy.

The most recent USDA Census of Agriculture for Douglas County, Illinois, provided a comprehensive snapshot of the county’s agricultural landscape as of 2022. Douglas County is home to 1,013 farms, encompassing a total of 246,000 acres of farmland. The average farm size is approximately 243 acres. The county’s agricultural economy is predominantly driven by crop production, with corn and soybeans being primary commodities. In terms of irrigation, Douglas County has 14 farms utilizing irrigation systems, covering 1,515 acres. Regarding producer demographics, the county has 1,013 producers, with an average age of 59.5 years. Additionally, 96% of the farms are operated by individuals, with the remaining 4% being operated by partnerships or corporations. This data underscores the county’s strong agricultural foundation and the importance of farming to its economy.

Overview of Douglas County Agriculture

Location and Geography: Douglas County, Illinois, is located in the heart of Central Illinois, bordered by Coles, Edgar, and Moultrie counties. The county features gently rolling farmland and a mix of agricultural fields, woodlands, and small waterways that contribute to its rural character.

Major Crops:

1. Corn: a primary crop in Douglas County, thriving in its fertile soils and supporting both grain and silage production.
2. Soybeans: widely grown across the county, benefiting from the region’s climate and crop rotation practices.
3. Wheat: also cultivated in Douglas County, although on a smaller scale compared to corn and soybeans, often as part of crop rotation systems.

Douglas County, Illinois, is deeply rooted in agriculture, with a landscape dominated by productive farmland primarily dedicated to growing corn and soybeans. These crops thrive in the county’s fertile soils and favorable climate, making crop production the backbone of the local economy. The average farm size is around 243 acres, and farming operations here tend to be family-run, reflecting a strong tradition of stewardship and connection to the land. While corn and soybeans are the mainstay, wheat is also grown on a smaller scale, usually as part of crop rotation to maintain soil health.

The demand for farmland in Douglas County remains steady, driven by both local farmers looking to expand their operations and investors interested in the stability of agricultural land. Recent listings show consistent acreage available, especially around communities like Camargo, where rural real estate activity is more concentrated. The land market reflects confidence in the county’s agricultural potential, supported by well-established infrastructure and a solid agricultural economy that remains a vital part of the region’s identity and livelihood.

History & Background of Douglas County, Illinois

County Seat: Tuscola

Townships: Arcola / Arthur / Camargo / Douglas / Garrett / Hindsboro / Newman / Tuscola / Villa Grove

History: Established in 1859; Named for Stephen A. Douglas, a prominent Illinois politician and U.S. Senator.

Population: 19,740

Cities & Towns: Tuscola / Arcola / Camargo / Arthur / Villa Grove / Newman / Hindsboro

Acreage: 267,000

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

The 2022 Ag Census for Douglas County, Illinois, reported the following crop statistics: