US Hog Numbers Show Steady Production and Growth
The U.S. Department of Agriculture published its latest Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report showing a small increase in the national hog and pig inventory. As of December 1, the total number reached 75.5 million in the head, which was slightly higher than the previous year and also higher than the count reported earlier in September.
Market hogs made up most of the total inventory. About 69.6 million animals were raised for market use, while 5.95 million were kept for breeding purposes. These figures reflected steady herd management and stable production systems nationwide.
From September through November 2025, a total of 35.0 million pigs were weaned. This number was slightly higher than the same period one year earlier. During the same time, producers weaned an average of 11.93 pigs per litter. These results showed good care practices and strong litter performance across operations.
Producers also shared plans for future production. About 2.89 million sows were expected to farrow between December 2025 and February 2026. Another 2.91 million sows were planned to farrow between March and May 2026. These plans suggested stable supply levels moving into the next production cycles.
Iowa continued to hold the largest hog inventory at 25.3 million heads. Minnesota followed with 9.40 million heads, while North Carolina ranked third with 7.90 million heads. These states remained the leading swine producing regions in the country.
To collect the data, the National Agricultural Statistics Service surveyed 5,752 operators nationwide. The agency gathered information using online portals, mail surveys, phone interviews, and face-to-face meetings. This approach helped ensure accurate national measurements of the swine industry.
The Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report remained an important source of production information for the agriculture industry and supported informed planning and market decisions across the United States.