DataPoint: Sentiment Stronger Among Livestock Producers, But Challenges are Similar to Crop Producers

Crop and livestock producers reported different views of the agricultural economy in the July 2026 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer survey. 

Livestock farmers expressed stronger sentiment than crop producers, particularly regarding current economic conditions. However, both groups identified many of the same concerns, educational needs, and long-term challenges.

Respondents were asked to select the biggest challenge to their operation over the next 5-10 years given the following choices: crop or livestock prices, cost control, weather, farm transition, government programs, trade, and financial considerations. 

Purdue’s Michael Langemeier says crop or livestock prices were clearly the biggest challenge facing both crop and livestock producers, selected by 33% of livestock producers and 28% of crop producers. 

Farm transition was chosen by 15% of crop producers and 20% of livestock producers as the biggest challenge, while financial considerations were selected by 15% of crop producers and 12% of livestock producers.