Putnam County, Indiana
2024 Land Sales Report

According to Land.com, around 3,000 acres of land were listed for sale in Putnam County, Indiana, ranging from farms and hunting properties to other types of rural land. Among all Indiana counties, Putnam ranks 44th for total acres currently on the market. The town of Cloverdale leads the way within the county for the most land listings. Located in west-central Indiana, Putnam County is the 16th largest in the state, covering about 482 square miles.

The most recent USDA farmland census reveals that Putnam County is home to 728 farms working across approximately 174,378 acres, with around 140,846 acres dedicated to cropland, about 7,237 in permanent pasture and rangeland, and 18,559 acres in woodland. Farms average roughly 239 acres each–reflecting a mix of medium-scale operations that remain productive and well-integrated into the local farming economy. Crop production overwhelmingly drives the agricultural scene here, accounting for around 89% of farm income, while livestock and related activities make up the rest. Conservation practices are steadily gaining traction: about 27% of farms practice no-till, 14% use reduced tillage, 9% follow intensive tillage, and roughly 8% plant cover crops, showing a growing a commitment to soil health and sustainability.

Overview of Putnam County Agriculture

Location and Geography: Putnam County is located in west-central Indiana, about halfway between Indianapolis and Terre Haute. The county features a mix of gently rolling farmland, wooded areas, and small lakes, making it both agriculturally productive and scenically diverse.

Major Crops: 

1. Corn: a dominant crop in Putnam County, widely planted for both grain and livestock feed, taking advantage of the area’s fertile soils and favorable growing conditions.
2. Soybeans: another leading crop, often rotated with corn, and are valued for their versatility in both food and industrial products.
3. Wheat: grown on a smaller scale, but remains an important crop, often used in double-cropping systems to maximize land productivity.
4. Hay: hay production supports the county’s livestock operations, providing a reliable source of feed for cattle and other farm animals.

Agriculture plays a central role in Putnam County, Indiana, where the rolling landscape and nutrient-rich soils support a strong and diverse farming economy. Corn and soybeans dominate the fields, benefiting from efficient crop rotation practices that help maintain soil health and yields. Wheat and hay are also grown, complementing the county’s livestock operations and contributing to its agricultural stability. Many farms in the area are multi-generational, reflecting a deep-rooted tradition of stewardship and innovation in local agriculture.

The demand for farmland in Putnam County has remained steady, driven by both its agricultural productivity and its location within commuting distance to larger cities like Indianapolis and Terre Haute. The mix of working farms, recreational properties, and development potential continues to attract a variety of buyers. With strong community support for farming and a reliable track record of production, Putnam County’s land market remains an appealing and competitive space for both local and out-of-area investors.

History & Background of Putnam County, Indiana

County Seat: Greencastle

Townships: Clinton / Cloverdale / Floyd / Franklin / Greencastle / Jackson / Jefferson / Madison / Marion / Monroe / Russell / Warren / Washington

History: Established in 1822; Named for General Israel Putnam, a noted Revolutionary War figure.

Population: 37,567

Cities & Towns: Greencastle / Bainbridge / Cloverdale / Fillmore / Roachdale / Russellville / Heritage Lake / Putnamville / Van Bibber Lake

Acreage: 308,000

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

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