Wayne County, Indiana
2024 Land Sales Report

According to Land.com, there was about $72 million worth of land listed for sale in Wayne County on Land.com, spread across nearly 2,000 acres of rural property. That puts Wayne County at 29th in Indiana for the total number of acres currently on the market. Among all the areas in the county, Richmond had the most land listings. Wayne County covers around 404 square miles, making it the 45th largest county in the state, and it’s located in the eastern part of Indiana.

The most recent USDA farmland census reveals that Wayne County had 727 farms managing about 154,500 acres in 2022, with roughly 127,400 acres dedicated to cropland, plus pasture, woodland, and farmstead acreage. The average farm size is 213 acres, and crop production represents about 82% of farm sales, while livestock, poultry, and related products make up the remaining 18%. Conservation practices are common: no-till is used on about 38% of farms, reduced tillage on 14%, intensive tillage on 12%, and cover crops on around 13%, demonstrating a growing interest in maintaining soil health. Wayne County’s agricultural economy remains crop-heavy, with the majority of acreage devoted to grains and oilseeds supported by well-established farming systems.

Overview of Wayne County Agriculture

Location and Geography: Wayne County sits in east-central Indiana, sharing its eastern border with Ohio, and features predominantly gently rolling farmland crisscrossed by waterways like the East Fork of the Whitewater River. The area’s fertile soils and moderate terrain make it well-suited to a mix of cropland, pasture, and integrated woodland.

Major Crops: 

1. Soybeans: the county’s leading crop, with roughly 17,982 acres planted, covering the greatest amount of cropland.
2. Corn for grain: comes in a close second, with about 17,404 acres harvested annually.
3. Hay and forage crops: play an important supporting role, providing feed for livestock across roughly 3,447 acres.

Wayne County, Indiana, is home to a strong and diverse agricultural community rooted in row crop production. With over 727 farms spread across roughly 154,500 acres, agriculture remains a central part of the county’s economy and identity. The landscape is dominated by soybean and corn production, with soybeans slightly edging out corn in total acreage. Many farmers also grow hay and other forage crops to support local livestock operations. Conservation practices like no-till and cover cropping are on the rise, reflecting a long-term commitment to soil health and sustainable farming practices. The average farm size in the county is around 213 acres, and most farms are family-owned and operated, often passed down through generations.

The demand for farmland in Wayne County remains steady, especially around areas like Richmond, which has seen the highest volume of land listings. The county’s fertile soil, manageable terrain, and location near the Ohio state line make it attractive for both local and out-of-county buyers. Whether for row crop farming, pastureland, or rural development, available acreage tends to draw interest from producers looking to expand as well as from investors seeking long-term value. As a result, the land market in Wayne County maintains a healthy balance between agricultural productivity and investment appeal.

History & Background of Wayne County, Indiana

County Seat: Richmond

Townships: Abington / Boston / Center / Clay / Dalton / Franklin / Green / Harrison / Jackson / Jefferson / New Garden / Perry / Washington / Wayne / Webster

History: Established in 1811; Named after Revolutionary War General “Mad” Anthony Wayne.

Population: 66,410

Cities & Towns: Richmond / Cambridge City / Centerville / Fountain City / Hagerstown / Greens Fork / Milton / Boston / Dublin / Mount Auburn / Economy / East Germantown / Spring Grover

Acreage: 258,560

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

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