WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. farmers are shifting acres in 2026, with fewer corn and wheat acres and more soybeans and cotton, according to the USDA’s Prospective Plantings report. Corn planted area is estimated at 95.3 million acres, down 3 percent from last year, while soybean acreage is expected to rise 4 percent to 84.7 million acres.
USDA data shows corn acreage declines or holds steady across most major producing states, reflecting changing economics and rotation decisions. Soybean acres are increasing in key states, including Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska, signaling a shift toward crops with potentially lower input costs and different market opportunities.
Wheat acreage continues to contract. Total planted area is projected at 43.8 million acres, down 3 percent from 2025 and the lowest on record since 1919. Both winter and spring wheat acres are declining, including an 11 percent drop in durum wheat and a 6 percent decline in other spring wheat.
Cotton is moving in the opposite direction. Total planted area is expected to reach 9.64 million acres, up 4 percent from last year, with increases in major-producing states such as Texas and Georgia. However, American Pima acreage is projected to be lower.
These shifts reflect ongoing adjustments to input costs, crop prices, and regional conditions as producers position for the 2026 growing season.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Acre shifts reflect margins, costs, and market opportunities.