Farmers

Farmers' incomes vary greatly from year to year, since the prices of farm products fluctuate according to weather conditions and the amount and quality of what all farmers were able to produce. A farm that shows a large profit one year may show a loss for the following year. Most farmers, especially those running small farms, earn incomes from nonfarm activities that are several times larger than their farm incomes. Farm incomes also vary greatly depending on the size and type of farm. In general, large farms generate more income than small farms. Exceptions include some specialty farms that produce low-volume, but high-quality, horticultural and fruit products.

Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers who worked full time had median annual earnings of $83,770 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $47,800 a year, and the top 10 percent of all farm managers earned $136,410 or more a year. Fifty percent of farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers earned between $63,510 and $109,090.

Farmworkers and laborers who are classified under the category of "crops, nurseries, and greenhouses" earned a median annual salary of $34,470 in May 2023, according to the DOL. Salaries ranged from less than $30,590 to more than $44,010. Those who are classified under the category "farms, ranches, and aquacultural animals" earned a median annual salary of $35,120. The lowest paid 10 percent earned $25,500 or less, and the top 10 percent earned $50,300 or more.

Farmers must provide their own benefits, such as health and life insurance and a savings and pension program. Farm managers and operators typically receive benefits from their employer.