A new economic study released by the National Corn Growers Association shows America’s corn industry continues to be a major driver of the U.S. economy, extending far beyond the farm gate.
According to the report, U.S. farmers harvested a record-breaking 17.02 billion bushels of corn in 2025 from nearly 99 million planted acres. The crop carried an estimated farm value of more than $70 billion and generated economic activity across hundreds of industries nationwide.
The analysis found that corn production supported approximately $142 billion in total economic output during 2025 while contributing an estimated $56 billion to the nation’s gross domestic product. Researchers also estimated the industry helped support more than 482,000 jobs and generated roughly $32 billion in wages.
The study concluded that corn production benefits all 50 states through a network of businesses tied to agriculture, including grain handling, transportation, equipment manufacturing, ethanol production, livestock feeding, food processing, exports, and countless support industries.
Researchers calculated that every bushel of corn produced last year generated an estimated $8.34 in overall economic activity throughout the U.S. economy, underscoring the crop’s importance well beyond the value received by farmers.
The findings come as many corn producers continue to face tight profit margins due to elevated production costs and lower commodity prices. Industry leaders say the report demonstrates the significant role corn growers play in supporting rural communities, creating jobs, and fueling economic growth across the country.
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