The USDA’s corn yield estimate decreased by 2.1 bushels per acre to 186.7 bushels per acre in the September report (Figure 1). This yield still exceeds previous years and provides the expectation of a record crop. As of September 7th, 80% of Iowa’s corn crop is considered in good to excellent condition.

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Figure 1. U.S. Corn Yield (Bushels per Acre)

The national expected yield per acre is 4.1% greater than last year (Figure 2). The corn belt states are all experiencing boosted yields per acre compared to last year. Iowa has the largest crop and its yield has risen by nearly 4% to 219 bushels per acre. Illinois is expected to have the second largest corn crop, even with yield per acre only increasing by 0.9% from last year. Minnesota corn yield has fallen by 3 bushels per acre from last month, but it is still 14.4% greater than last year. Other notable states with increased yields include Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Ohio.   

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Figure 2. September 2025 Corn Yield, Buses and Percent Change from 2024

Soybeans

The projected national soybean yield per acre is 53.5, 5.5% increase from last year (Figure 3). Although the projection decreased by 0.1 bushels per acre since last month, it still represents a record yield and forecasts a massive harvest this fall. As of September 7th, 76% of Iowa’s soybean crop is considered in good to excellent condition.

A graph showing the growth of soybean yieldAI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 3. U.S. Soybean Yield (Bushels per Acre)

The national soybean yield per acre is 5.5% greater than last year, with much of the Midwest and Plains seeing boosted yields. Iowa’s soybean yield is up 8.3% to 65 bushels per acre, tied for highest in the country. Illinois is tied for largest soybean yield at 65 bushels per acre, a 1.6% increase from last year. Indiana and Nebraska are expected to produce 61 bushels per acre, a 3.4% increase for Indiana and a 6.1% increase for Nebraska. Minnesota, Michigan, and Ohio all are experiencing yields at least 10% greater than last year.

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Figure 4. September 2025 Soybean Yield, Buses and Percent Change from 2024