Grant County, Indiana
2024 Land Sales Report

According to Land.com, about $22 million worth of land and rural properties were listed for sale in Grant County, Indiana. Altogether, that came to roughly 1,000 acres. Out of Indiana’s 92 counties, Grant County ranks 53rd in terms of total land currently on the market. Marion, the county seat, had the most land listings in the area. In terms of size, Grant County is the 33rd largest county in the state, covering 414 square miles. It’s part of Indiana’s East region, known for its mix of farmland, small towns, and open space.

The most recent USDA farmland census reveals that Grant County’s farming landscape has been going through some changes in recent years. The number of farms in the county dropped to 334 – down 17% from five years earlier. At the same time, the total farmland shrank to around 794,000 acres, though the average farm size actually grew to about 2,379 acres. Farming here is still very much a family affair, with 96% of farms being family-operated. Economically, the county’s farms brought in around $15.6 million in 2022, with most of that – about $14.3 million – coming from livestock and poultry. Crop sales made up a smaller slice, around $1.27 million. Interestingly, government payments to farms more than tripled since 2017, reaching $3.35 million. But despite that boost, overall net cash income dropped sharply – from $3.3 million to just $1.5 million. The number of producers also declined, from 777 to 646, and the average age of farmers continues to climb, with a growing portion now over 65. While the farming tradition remains strong, it’s clear that agriculture in Grant County is facing both economic and generational shifts.

Overview of Grant County Agriculture

Location and Geography: Grant County is located in east-central Indiana, about halfway between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. The county features mostly flat to gently rolling terrain, with rich farmland, several creeks, and the Mississinewa River running through it.

Major Crops:

1. Corn: One of the leading crops grown in Grant County.
2. Soybeans: Widely planted across the county and serve as a key cash crop for oil, animal feed, and export.
3. Hay: Commonly grown to support local livestock operations and is often used for feeding cattle and horses.
4. Wheat: Produced on a smaller scale and typically planted in rotation with corn and soybeans to maintain soil health.

Grant County’s agricultural scene reflects a broader trend of consolidation: the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture recorded 334 farms – about 17% fewer than in 2017 – managing roughly 794,500 acres of farmland, an 11% decline. Although the total acreage has decreased, average farm size rose to around 2,379 acres, showing that farms are getting larger even as they become fewer. Most farms remain family-operated, and while livestock and poultry dominate production value, crop sales (including hay, fruits, nursery plants) contribute too. Government support payments have grown significantly, though net farm income has declined.

On the land market side, demand remains strong despite limited supply – land listings in Grant County typically average around $25,000 per acre, well above the state average. Recent listings show about 1,000 acres of farmland currently on the market, suggesting a competitive environment even though overall available acreage is modest compared to other counties. This combination of rising prices, few listings, and steady interest indicated solid demand for rural real estate in the area.

History & Background of Grant County, Indiana

County Seat: Marion

Townships: Center / Fairmount / Franklin / Green / Jefferson / Liberty / Mill / Monroe / Pleasant / Richland / Sims / Van Buren / Washington

History: Established in 1831; Named after Captains Samuel and Moses Grant, military officers killed north of the Ohio River

Population: 66,674

Cities & Towns: Fairmount / Fowlerton / Gas City / Jonesboro / Marion / Matthews / Swayzee / Sweetser / Upland / Van Buren

Acreage: 265,536

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

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