Ripley County, Indiana
2024 Land Sales Report

According to Land.com, about 1,000 acres of land were listed for sale in Ripley County, Indiana, including farms, hunting properties, and other types of rural land. Among all Indiana counties, Ripley ranks 53rd in terms of the total acreage currently up for sale. Batesville had the largest share of listings in the county. Covering 448 square miles, Ripley County is the 25th largest in the state and sits in the South-Central Indiana region.

The most recent USDA farmland census reveals that Ripley County, Indiana, continues to support a vibrant and productive agricultural community, with 835 farms managing about 175,750 acres of farmland–each averaging around 210 acres, which is slightly above the state’s average farm size. Fresher data shows that roughly 136,440 acres of cropland, and about 8,550 acres are pasture, with over 20,500 acres dedicated to woodland. Overall, row crops are the driving force, generating about 87% of farm income, while livestock and related products contribute the rest. Many farmers are also adopting soil-friendly approaches–around 36% use no-till, 19% rely on reduced tillage, 14% practice intensive tillage, and 11% incorporate cover crops–highlighting a growing focus on long-term land stewardship and sustainability.

Overview of Ripley County Agriculture

Location and Geography: Ripley County is located in southeastern Indiana, nestled in the rolling hills of the state’s South-Central region. The county features a mix of gently sloping farmland, forested areas, and small creeks, with fertile soils that support both agriculture and natural wildlife habitats.

Major Crops:

1. Corn: a leading crop in Ripley County, with many farmers growing it for both grain and livestock feed due to the county’s rich, productive soils.
2. Soybeans: widely cultivated across the county, often in rotation with corn, helping to maintain soil health and maximize yield potential.
3. Hay: an important crop, supporting local livestock operations and contributing to the county’s mixed-use agricultural economy.

Agriculture plays a vital role in Ripley County, Indiana, where rolling farmland and fertile soils support a strong and diverse farming community. Corn and soybeans dominate the landscape, with many farmers utilizing crop rotation practices to enhance soil health and productivity. Hay production is also common, supporting the county’s livestock sector and contributing to its overall agricultural economy. Many farms in the area remain family-owned, passing down generations of experience and tradition in row cropping and animal husbandry.

In recent years, there has been a steady interest in land within Ripley County, driven by its productive soil, rural charm, and strategic location in southern Indiana. Buyers are drawn to the area for both farming operations and recreational uses, and the demand has been supported by stable commodity markets and a growing appreciation for rural living. The land market remains active, with parcels ranging from large tracts of farmland to smaller hobby farms and hunting properties, reflecting the county’s agricultural strength and appealing lifestyle.

History & Background of Ripley County, Indiana

County Seat: Versailles

Townships: Adams / Brown / Center / Delaware / Franklin / Jackson / Johnson / Loughery / Otter Creek / Shelby / Washington

History: Established in 1816; Named for General Eleazer Wheelock Ripley, a distinguished officer in the War of 1812.

Population: 28,995

Cities & Towns: Versailles / Batesville / Osgood / Milan / Sunman / Holton / Napoleon

Acreage: 286,720

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

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