The number of Hispanic farms in the U.S. declined by 2,800 in 2022, totaling approximately 84,000, according to the latest Census of Agriculture.
Despite this decrease, the total farmland operated by Latino farmers has grown by 32% over the past two decades, reaching 37 million acres, or 4.2% of U.S. farmland.
Hispanic Operators Contribute to Specialty Crop Production
The USDA identifies Latino farm operators as socially disadvantaged producers (SDA), a group that includes individuals from historically discriminated-against communities.
Farms under their management often specialize in specialty crops, beef cattle, and other livestock sectors less frequently covered by direct government agricultural programs.
In 2022, 15% of Hispanic farms focused on specialty crops, including vegetables, fruit, and tree nuts. This rate was twice that of Non-Hispanic White and other SDA farms, which reported only 7% specializing in these products.
Financial Challenges and Limited Loan Access
Latino farmers face financial challenges at higher rates than non-Hispanic white operators. USDA data show that a more significant share of Hispanic farms were at financial risk based on their current ratio.
These properties were also less likely to secure loans from the Farm Credit System or commercial banks than their non-Hispanic counterparts.
However, when Hispanic farms secured loans, the average borrowed amount did not differ from other ranch categories, indicating parity in borrowing terms once credit was established.
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Younger and More Diverse Leadership on Hispanic Farms
The relative youth of Hispanic principal operators (POs) is a notable demographic distinction. Twenty-seven percent of Hispanic POs were between 45 and 54, compared to only 15% of Non-Hispanic White ranch operators.
Additionally, only 30% of Hispanic POs were over 65 years old, significantly lower than the 42% for Non-Hispanic White farms.
This trend aligns with broader demographic patterns, as the Hispanic population in the U.S. is the youngest major racial or ethnic group.
Land Size and Stability
In 2022, Hispanic farms averaged 441 acres, similar to the national average of 463 acres for all U.S. ranches. Despite growth in total land under Latino management, the average farm size has remained relatively stable over the years.
As Latino operators continue to play a crucial role in U.S. agriculture, their contributions to specialty crops and sustainable farming practices are poised to remain critical despite ongoing financial challenges and the recent decline in farm numbers.