USDA Releases New Cattle Numbers for Summer 2025 Report
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) has released the 2025 July Cattle Inventory Report, showing a total of 94.2 million cattle and calves on U.S. farms as of July 1, 2025.
Among this total, 38.1 million cows and heifers have calved, indicating their active role in livestock production. Beef cows make up 28.7 million of the total, while milk cows account for 9.45 million, continuing their vital contribution to dairy farming.
The report also estimates the 2025 calf crop at 33.1 million head, reflecting the number of calves born during the year. In addition, the number of all cattle on feed, which are being raised for beef production, stands at 13.0 million head.
To ensure the data is accurate, NASS surveyed over 17,900 producers across the country during the first half of July. These producers shared information through internet, mail, or telephone to report their cattle numbers and calf crop for the year.
This is the first July cattle report since 2023, giving farmers, analysts, and policymakers a fresh view of the state of the cattle industry in the U.S. The report helps track trends and plan for future livestock and beef production efforts.
The cattle inventory plays an important role in understanding food supply, market prices, and economic planning in agriculture.