Farm Banks Remain a Key for U.S. Farmers and Rural Communities

National Association Of Farm Broadcasting

Farm banks remained a cornerstone of the rural economy in 2025, providing critical financing to farmers, ranchers, and small agricultural operations across the country. According to the American Bankers Association, banks held nearly $212 billion in farm loans, accounting for more than one-third of all agricultural credit nationwide. Of that total, 1,372 farm banks—many deeply rooted in rural communities—provided $122 billion in lending, with a strong focus on small and micro-farms. These institutions supported more than one million small farm loans, helping producers manage operating costs, invest in equipment, and sustain their businesses. “Farm banks play an outsized role in supporting farmers, ranchers, and rural communities,” said Ed Elfmann, senior vice president of agricultural and rural banking policy for the ABA. Beyond lending, farm banks contribute to rural stability through job creation and long-term community ties and continue to serve as a vital lifeline for agricultural producers and the broader rural economy.