Key Takeaways:
- CoBank projects U.S. soybean acreage to rise 5.9% to 86 million acres in 2026.
- Corn acreage is expected to decline 4.8% to 94 million acres.
- Cotton and rice plantings are forecast to fall to multi-year lows.
- Grain sorghum, spring wheat, and durum acreage are also projected to decrease.
- Low crop prices, high production costs, and rotation needs are driving planting decisions.
CoBank Projects Soybean Acreage Gains in 2026
As spring planting season approaches, U.S. farmers are weighing crop choices against a backdrop of low commodity prices and elevated production costs. According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, soybeans are expected to gain acreage in 2026, while several other major crops decline.
U.S. soybean acreage is projected to increase 5.9% year-over-year to 86 million acres. The shift reflects improved soybean price signals relative to competing crops, supported by expanded domestic crush capacity and expectations of continued Chinese demand.
“Following recent price rallies, soybeans offer greater profit potential than corn, wheat, sorghum, cotton and rice,” said Tanner Ehmke, lead grains and oilseeds economist with CoBank. “Beyond price signals, crop rotation needs will also play a role.”
