Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers Salary Guide 2025: $89,900 Median
The median salary for Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers in the U.S. is $89,900 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The average wage is $99,820, or roughly $43 per hour. That puts these professionals well above the national median for all occupations, but pay varies widely by state and operation size.
How much Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers earn
The typical salary range for this occupation spans from $54,320 at the 10th percentile to $160,020 at the 90th. That means the bottom tenth earn about $26 per hour, while the top tenth make over $77 per hour. Earnings depend on factors like crop type, farm size, region, and whether the manager owns the operation.
This job category covers a broad mix of self-employed farmers and salaried managers on large commercial farms. The BLS figures include both, which explains the wide spread.
- National median: $89,900
- 10th percentile: $54,320
- 90th percentile: $160,020
Pay by state
Nebraska tops the list at $111,460 average annual wage, followed by Montana ($110,250), California ($109,140), Washington ($103,240), and Kansas ($102,490). These are states with large-scale commodity farming — corn, soybeans, cattle, and specialty crops that require experienced managers. On the other end, Minnesota pays $65,900, Arkansas $63,920, and West Virginia $62,740. That’s a nearly $49,000 gap between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Manager
There is no single path. Many farmers learn on the job growing up on a family farm, but a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, or animal science is common for those entering as hired managers. Community colleges offer two-year degrees in farm management. Key skills include financial planning, crop or livestock management, equipment operation, and knowledge of government programs. Certification isn't required, but programs like the Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) credential can boost credibility. Experience working on a farm — through internships, apprenticeships, or starting your own small operation — is nearly essential.
- Get hands-on experience through internships or working on a farm.
- Consider an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related field.
- Learn financial management, crop/livestock science, and equipment operation.
- Optional: Earn the Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) or similar credential.
Job outlook
Employment of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers is projected to decline by 1.3% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 85,500 openings each year on average. Most openings will come from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation. Despite the drop in total jobs, demand for food and biofuel means experienced managers — especially those comfortable with technology like GPS-guided machinery and data analytics — will still find opportunities. Consolidation into larger farms continues to reduce the number of small operations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for farmers and ranchers in 2025?
The national median salary is $89,900 per year as of the latest BLS data.
How do I become a farmer or ranch manager?
Most get experience through farm work or family farms. A degree in agriculture helps, and you'll need skills in business, animal science, and equipment.
Is farming a declining career?
Employment is expected to decline 1.3% over 2024-2034, but about 85,500 openings per year arise from retirements.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers data.