Technology and imagination have created more opportunities for farmers to develop profitable businesses. Small farms (earning less than $50,000 annually or occupying less than 180 acres), in particular, can profit from less traditional farming, such as beekeeping, microgreens, or even hops, as well as alternative income sources like agritourism.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture1, in 2024, net farm income will be 15.9% above its 20-year average (2004 to 2023) of $121.4 billion in inflation-adjusted dollars. While this is a decline of 6.3% relative to 2023, it still represents a 2024 income forecast of $140 billion.
Looking for new ways to add life to your farm? Here are 29 of the most profitable small farming ideas:
Rural Agriculture Small Farm Ideas
Rural farms are located in outlying areas of the country. The vast land area is perfect for cultivating food crops, rearing livestock, and hunting; however, farming activities are highly dependent upon the seasons and natural weather conditions. Here are some profitable small farming ideas suited for rural areas.
1. Tree Nursery
A tree nursery can be a great investment when done right. Most farmers start with 10 to 20 seedlings on a small plot and, with the right marketing strategy, have the baby trees sold out before they mature. Seedlings run from 15 cents to $1.60 per tree, a sapling of two years can sell for $20 to $100, and a fully-grown tree can get you $1,000 or more—making for a large profit, if you have the time to wait.
Spend some time researching how to organically source the trees you want to grow. Fruit tree propagation, for example, can be done by grafting or budding (joining parts from multiple plants), and this increases your chances of producing the same variety of trees as opposed to using seeds.
If you have 10 or more acres, experience growing trees, and the right climate, Christmas tree farms can be a profitable option. You need to watch the trees as they grow, pruning them to make sure they are healthy and bushy for the holidays.
You might also consider this spin on the tree nursery idea:
“Start an adopt-a-tree program. This allows farmers to do what they do best—grow things. To start, you’ll need to have a simple website. But if you run a farm, you should have one anyway. The next thing you’ll need are the actual trees and the tools to plant them. Invest in a good quality camera to take pictures of the trees for the people adopting them. Take pictures when you plant them and as they grow to use as proof that you planted the trees. Finally, have certificates printed up to show adoption of the trees and ones that are to be given as a gift or memorial.”
— Julie Austin, CEO, Creative Innovation Group
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low starting costs; high potential returns | Turning a good profit takes time, possibly many years |
| Relatively simple and predictable business model | Requires a lot of space |
Estimated startup cost: 15 cents to $1.60 per tree
Estimated potential revenue: $20 to $1,000+ per tree (depending on species and age)
2. Fish Farming
Fish farming is an ideal business idea for investors with available land, and it doesn’t always require a large body of water. You can start a fish farm either by creating fish ponds or investing in fish tanks; it’s a highly scalable business idea. Once you have the proper knowledge of fish raising, you will be able to decide the type of fish to raise. According to FinModelsLab, a well-run fish farm can produce a return on investment (ROI) of 15% to 40% annually, with many fish farmers achieving a full return on their investment within three to five years.
Fish such as tilapia, cod, trout, and catfish are popular because they are easy to raise and in high demand. Small-scale farms are the usual suppliers of fish in their local supermarkets and restaurants.
Other popular varieties of commercially-raised fish include:
- Yellow Perch
- Eel
- Grass Carp
- Tuna
- Salmon
Not all fish are raised for food. Goldfish and koi are popular fish to farm as well. For non-food fish, focus on cultivating premium species that will fetch a higher price when you sell. Whether you are raising fish for food or not, adopting sustainable farming practices will be better for both your business branding and your long-term operational costs.
The decision as to which fish you want to raise will ultimately rely on your skill, financial capacity, market demand, and agro-climatic condition. This refers to the normal soil types, rainfall, temperature, and water availability that affect the type of vegetation in the area.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Many options for types of fish and why to cultivate and sell them | Deciding on a type of fish can be a complex, multi-factor decision |
| Potentially high ROI | Fish will require constant care and may be sensitive to environmental changes |
Estimated startup cost: Around $10 per juvenile decorative fish such as koi
Estimated potential revenue: $3,000+ for large, adult decorative fish of notable breed
3. Dual Crop Farming
Dual crop farming or multiple cropping can be either mixed cropping or intercropping.
- Mixed cropping refers to raising two or more types of crops in the same area at the same time. This increases the probability that at least one type of crop will survive even if the entire area experiences adverse conditions such as drought.
- Intercropping is similar, but with the addition of planting seeds in a specific pattern or sequence in the field. This allows farmers to maximize yield or productivity and the space available.
Dual crop farming is very popular among farmers because it optimizes the use of equipment, soil, water, and farming supplies; it also maximizes the production of a small farm all year round.
Farmers like that it reduces the risk of total loss from calamities, drought, pests, and diseases. Some good examples of multiple cropping are growing strawberries and watermelons in Florida or wheat and soybeans in addition to corn and canola in the Carolinas.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low cost per seed | Can require a lot of space |
| Advanced farming techniques minimize crop failure and maximize productivity | Crops will need time and good conditions to grow |
Estimated startup cost: $1.99 to $26.75 per pack of 30 to 50 seeds
Estimated potential revenue: Around $44,000 per year
4. Goat Farming
Goats are highly versatile livestock. According to Grand View Research, goat milk products are expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2023 to 2030, as more and more people seek an alternative to cow’s milk for infant food, allergies, and nutrition. A quick look online shows goat milk selling for about $3.93 to $13 per gallon, and the milk can be made for cheese or even soap. The initial outlay for milking equipment can be expensive, and goats need to be milked twice a day.
Goats aren’t just for milking. Angora goats produce mohair and cashmere. Plus, you can rent goats out for brush removal, as petting animals, for photo shoots, and even for goat yoga!
Goat yoga is best viewed as a way to add a revenue stream to an existing farm; goats are really only good for yoga when they are young, so goat yoga alone is not realistic as a sustainable, year-round business. For a similar business model, you can try puppy yoga instead. This is also a good way to collaborate with local dog breeders and other dog-based businesses nearby.
The demand for goat meat is increasing as well, and can sell for as much as $20 per pound. Different breeds of goats are needed for milking or meat (although they will all eat the weeds).
Goats are versatile animals for profitable small farming. (Source: Envato)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Goats are versatile and multi-purpose as a source of income | Potentially high labor requirement and startup costs |
| Demand for goat-based products is increasing | Different types of goats needed for different purposes/products |
Estimated startup cost: $150,000+ for land, infrastructure, and equipment
Estimated potential revenue: Up to $20 per pound of goat meat; around $13 per gallon of goat milk; around $9 per sq. ft. of goat leather
5. Alpaca Farming
Alpaca ranching is easier than cattle or horse ranching, and with as little as an acre of land, you can raise five alpacas. They are best for fleece, which is sheared annually (note that shearing requires a particular technique which you will either have to learn and perform yourself or hire a professional to do for you). Raw fleece runs $3 an ounce, so they are better as a supplement to your farm. The bigger profit is in breeding and stud fees. Plus, they’re so cute that some farms get side income from photos or social media.
Alpacas will live amiably with other livestock and are good guard animals, ready to run off a fox or defend their territory or fellow animals. Some farmers have found a side business in renting out their alpacas as “guard sheep.” You can also sell their manure, as it’s a good source of nitrogen and potassium.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Like goats, alpacas are versatile and multi-purpose as a source of income | Might not be viable as a standalone business |
| Alpacas are easier to maintain than many other types of farm animal | Alpacas need to be protected from predators and adverse weather conditions |
Estimated startup cost: $500+ for one male alpaca; $3,000+ for one fertile female; plus land and infrastructure costs
Estimated potential revenue: About $3 per ounce of raw fleece; around $12 to $50 for a 2- to 15-pound bag of manure
6. Rabbit Farming
If you don’t have much space to work with but would still like to try animal farming, consider raising rabbits. You can sell rabbit meat at $10 to $20 per pound (depending on how processed the meat is), as well as rabbit fur and even their manure. Depending on how you plan to make income off your rabbits, you’ll need to consider their breed well—for example, Angora rabbits are a popular choice for wool.
Rabbits breed quickly, can make you money in several ways,
Rabbits breed relatively quickly; depending on the breed, the gestation period can be as brief as 27 days or up to 45 days. The age of sexual maturity (which you will need to consider when planning your farm’s timeline and animal population) ranges from three to eight months old, depending on size and species. You’ll need to construct one or more hutches to house your rabbits and provide them with enough fresh hay, grass, leafy greens, and pellets to eat.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Require less space than goats or alpacas | Will need careful planning due to the speed of their breeding |
| Can be sold for meat, fur, manure, or pets | Will need protection from predators |
Estimated startup cost: $2,000 to $5,000 for hutches, food, fences, and other infrastructure; $20 to $100+ per rabbit (depending on breed)
Estimated potential revenue: $10 to $20 per pound of meat; $10 to $10 per ounce of high-quality Angora wool
Low-capital Small Farm Ideas
If you’re short on capital, there are some low-cost business ideas that are easy to start. While these types of farm businesses usually earn less than other farms that invest in land and equipment, they continue to provide a steady stream of income.
7. Herb Gardening
According to Profitable Plants, “Just one small backyard growing bed with 100 square feet of growing space will hold 400 potted herb plants with a retail value of over $2,400.” When starting your own herb garden, emphasize variety and choose herbs in local demand for easier sales. You can start an herb business with small farmers’ market sales from your backyard, selling herbs that you cut, the plants, seeds, or all three, but also check with local restaurants, herbalists, or essential oil makers. If you grow catnip, you can sell it to pet stores or make catnip toys. Also, consider selling your herb and herb products online.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low startup cost; little space required | A small garden might only turn a small profit |
| High variety of potential customers in different industries | Herbs require lots of sunlight, which can be difficult to obtain indoors |
Estimated startup cost: <$2 for 3-gram packs of single seed types; $39+ for large variety packs
Estimated potential revenue: Around $400 per eight hours of work raising in-demand herbs
8. Bee Farming
Apiculture or beekeeping often starts as a hobby, and the capital needed to begin is quite low. According to Beekeeping for Newbies, it costs about $800 for the first year for a single hive, protective gear, and basic tools. In addition to honey, you can sell bee byproducts such as beeswax, bee pollen, and royal jelly. Bee pollen and royal jelly are considered superfoods and are sold at a high price. You can also rent out beehives for added income.
You only need a small area in your backyard but need to check local ordinances (and HOA if applicable) to make sure beekeeping is allowed.
There are many ways to get your first set of bees:
- Catch a swarm: If you live at a location where bees are often found, you can opt to catch your own swarm for free.
- Buy a bee package: This package consists of about 3 pounds of bees with a young, mated queen. Large bee farms regularly sell bee packages in the spring for about $180 each.
- Nucleus hive: This typically consists of a box with five frames of bees, brood, pollen, nectar, and a fertile, laying queen bee. It is sold between April and June for $200-plus.
- Full hive: This simply means an entire hive setup, including an existing colony that large beekeepers sell to beginner bee farmers for around $300 each.
- Split hive: Split hives are created when several frames of an existing colony are moved to a new box where a new queen is introduced. They’re often sold for around $200 each.
Beginner bee farmers are encouraged to purchase a nucleus hive, which helps them learn the basics of beekeeping and nurture their growth. You will also need other equipment, such as protective gear, hive tools, a bee brush, and a honey extractor.
In today’s world, profitable farming includes online as well as in-person sales. To sell your farm products online, you’ll want an easy-to-use ecommerce software. Shopify is one of the best ecommerce software as it is easy to use and feature-rich and has a mobile and register point-of-sale option if you sell in person on the farm or at farmers’ markets.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Relatively affordable and simple to start | Learning to manage and care for bees can be complex |
| Bee-based products can be sold for high prices | Requires additional equipment such as protective suits and gloves |
Estimated startup cost: $200+ for a nucleus hive; $350+ for a full protective suit with gloves and headgear
Estimated potential revenue: Up to $4,000 per year for four to six well-maintained hives
9. Aquaponics
Aquaponics is a farming method that combines aquaculture (raising aquatic animals) with hydroponics (cultivating plants in water). This means farmers produce crops using less water and land. That means lower investment and a faster yield. Experts advise beginners to start small and expand as they learn how to maximize their production.
Aquaponics is expected to have a CAGR of 13.5% from 2025 to 2030. Getting started costs between $1,500 and $15,000 for a smaller system plus equipment and stock, and a well-run farm can generate profits of $5 to $10 per square foot per year, per BootstrapBee.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Does not require a huge initial investment | Constant electricity/energy usage can drive up costs long-term |
| Requires less water and space than other types of farming | Aquatic animals and plants can be more delicate than those on land |
Estimated startup cost: Up to $15,000 for a smaller system; $100,000+ for a large commercial system
Estimated potential revenue: $5 to $10 per square foot per year
10. Microgreens Farming
Microgreens are young vegetables or baby plants that are around 10 to 14 days old and one to three inches tall. They are the small edible vegetables that restaurants use in salads or as garnish. Chefs add them to create depth of flavor. According to Microgreens Farmer, a standard rack can produce $800 or more. The microgreen market grew from $1.91 billion in 2023 to $2.14 billion in 2024 with a CAGR of 12.2%, per The Business Research Company.
Beginner farmers should consider this business because microgreens are easy to grow, turnaround time is high, and it requires little investment to start. You can grow them indoors or outdoors, although, for year-round yield, you need a greenhouse, which can get pricey. Plus, most microgreens like temperatures similar to our homes. While any young vegetable can work, here are some of the more popular microgreens:
- Mustard greens
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Radish
- Peas
- Basil
- Swiss chard
- Arugula
- Sunflower
With the right strategy, farming herbs and microgreens for commercial use can be a very lucrative small investment venture. (source: Envato)
Generally speaking, the more land required to start a farming business, the higher the investment cost. As the cost of an acre of farmland averages to around $4,170 across the country, per Statista analysis of USDA data, maximizing the use of a small area can help bring down the cost of starting a farm business.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beginner-friendly; easy and cheap to grow; can be done indoors | Higher equipment and maintenance costs as you expand the business |
| Can be scaled up or down depending on your resources and goals | Plants will need constant care and monitoring |
Estimated startup cost: <$500 for seeds and industry-standard containers for a small area
Estimated potential revenue: Around $800 per full rack of in-demand greens
Urban Agriculture Profitable Small Farm Ideas
Urban agriculture is a farming business located in densely populated areas such as cities. This mostly refers to cultivating, processing, and distributing food products but can also include small-scale livestock and fishery. Space and pollution can be challenges, but local restaurants and supermarkets may seek urban farmers for a closer supply of fresh produce.
11. Vegetable Landscaping
Starting a landscaping business can be expensive, but farmers who want to opt for a greener path should enter this world of edible landscaping. This option creates more flexible opportunities, so your required startup capital will be considerably lower. You will mostly be investing in tools to grow vegetables either on freshly tilled soil or in containers. When using pots, remember to purchase the ones that are eight to 12 inches deep; also, space them out evenly so you can maximize your yield.
“Urban areas have many food deserts—places where there are no quality products available for residents. There are also many suburban homeowners with too much landscape to maintain on their own. By launching an urban vegetable landscaping business, you can tap into readily available lawns that homeowners do not wish to maintain themselves. They will pay you for your work (and workers), and all you need to do to keep them happy is offer a few vegetables in return each week. Take the surplus product, and sell it at a local farmers market or on street corners if permissible.”
— Gregory Heilers, Agricultural Technology Writer, G.P. Heilers Writing & Editing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You can choose which crops to plant for maximum profit, quality, or best taste | Growing crops requires lots of time and effort |
| You can sell B2B (such as to restaurants and supermarkets) for greater or additional profit | You will need to provide and monitor ideal conditions constantly, such as soil type and quality, sunlight, temperature, and water levels |
Estimated startup cost: Around $200 for infrastructure, fertilizer, and building materials; seed costs vary
Estimated potential revenue: Up to around $5 per square foot per growing season
12. Hydroponic Farming
Hydroponics is the process of growing crops with nutrient-rich water kept in contact with the plant roots instead of using soil. This process significantly reduces the risk of wastage and pollution that can harm the produce and cause diseases, which appeals to health-conscious consumers.
Like aquaponics, the minimal use of land area needed also makes hydroponics a low-cost investment. Plus, hydroponic plants can be harvested 30% to 50% faster than those grown in soil. This means you will have more products available to sell.
There are different hydroponic systems farmers can learn and try:
- Static: Plants are grown in tubs or plastic buckets. Water may be unaerated or gently aerated (water infused with gas).
- Continuous flow: The nutrient-rich water solution constantly flows past the roots so plants can absorb oxygen better.
- Aeroponics: Plant roots are only misted with a nutrient solution instead of submerged in liquid.
- Ebb and flow: Plants are flooded with water and then drained several times a day.
Hydroponics is all about careful management of the environment for your plants. So, while it seems like an easy business to try as a beginner farmer, take your time analyzing your options and learning about hydroponics from experts before you start your own.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low time and resource costs | Potentially high learning curve |
| Water-based delivery of nutrients can lead to better plant growth and quality | Can be labor-intensive depending on the system and methods you choose |
Estimated startup cost: Around $1,000 for a full water monitoring kit
Estimated potential revenue: Around $21.15 per square foot
13. Cannabis Farming
If you live in an area where cannabis use is legal, cannabis is another profitable farming alternative. Although you can produce better quality plants in a controlled environment, the easiest way to start is by growing them outdoors. Having a large backyard is an advantage; It helps keep your investment low while giving you a flexible space with which to work.
Growing cannabis outdoors can cost as little as $10 per square foot, although a greenhouse helps by providing an efficient, controlled environment. According to Medicgrow, a 5’x’5 grow space indoors costs about $225 per pound, with a 10.5-pound yield
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low starting costs with potentially good yields | Not a legal business in all states |
| The cannabis industry is growing and can be rewarding for entrepreneurs | Requires larger spaces for larger/more profitable yields |
Estimated startup cost: $10 to $15 per square foot of outdoor space
Estimated potential revenue: $50,000+ per year for experienced farmers with high-quality plants
14. Rooftop Tea Garden
A rooftop tea garden, a twist on the more common rooftop gardens found in many cities, has much potential for profit. Naturally, you can grow a variety of aromatic and medicinal herbs and greens to sell directly to consumers. But if you have the ability, you can also create a rustic coffee and tea shop directly on the rooftop. You’d need to partner with the landlord or whoever has the legal right to use the rooftop, and of course, it helps to know or partner with someone for running the cafe.
Some important things to consider before designing your rooftop garden:
- Review building codes: Check with your local government to see if there are rules about creating rooftop gardens in your area. Also, ask about possible restrictions that can affect the kind of business you want to put up.
- Monitor how much the roof is exposed to the elements: Sun and wind exposure is critical if you want to properly grow your tea garden. Make sure that your plants will get enough sunlight and shade and are protected against strong gusts of wind; it’s a good idea to include solutions for these issues in your business plan.
- Determine your rooftop’s loading capacity: Rooftops do have a maximum limit to the weight they can hold, and it is important to know and take this data into account when designing your garden. Consult with a structural engineer who can determine this information exactly and keep the building and your business safe.
It can take a lot of work to start your own rooftop tea garden, but a well-designed and run tea garden can provide not only profit but also a beautiful escape from the city without having to leave the neighborhood.
Rooftop farmers have the advantage of creating a versatile space for a combination of business ideas (Source: Envato).
As with any business, there are certain risks involved when starting your own farm. Rural farms, in particular, can be seriously affected by calamities and natural disasters that threaten both crops and livestock. It is, therefore, important to be prepared by knowing your options, such as how to apply for disaster loans.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides aesthetic benefits (which can also be monetized) in addition to profits | Labor intensive |
| Versatile space; does not require a traditional ground-level soil garden | Requires lots of space and/or access to a rooftop area |
Estimated startup cost: Up to around $60 per large variety pack of tea and herb seeds
Estimated potential revenue: Around $50,000 for small or medium-sized tea farm
15. Saffron Farming
Saffron is a spice made from the stamens of crocus flowers. It is used in Mediterranean cooking and health and beauty products. Saffron crocuses can be grown outdoors or in greenhouses, have a short growing season, and the product draws a high price. US-grown saffron sells for $25 to $75 per gram, making it the priciest spice in the world.
While the plants are low-maintenance to grow, harvesting is labor-intensive. You need to hand-harvest the stamens—the inner hair-like fibers—from each crocus. These must be harvested quickly before they wilt after blossoming at dawn and stored in dark, cool, and airtight conditions. But the crocuses grow well in the shoulder season of late fall after most farms have brought in a full harvest of other plants. So, growing saffron can be a profitable addition to farms that want to add a fresh revenue stream.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Saffron can be very profitable | Complex harvesting and storage requirements |
| Saffron is a quickly-growing industry in certain locations, such as Vermont | |
Estimated startup cost: Up to around $1 per bulb; around $25 for 100 seeds
Estimated potential revenue: $25 to $75 per gram
B2B Profitable Small Farm Ideas
B2B farming is a business method that farmers use when producing agricultural products to supply business clients. Businesses—including restaurants, grocers, and even brewers—prefer to deal with farmers directly for the low cost and quality. While many of the suggestions above can also work in the B2B market, here are some favorites.
16. Snail Farming
Heliciculture, or snail farming, can be a very lucrative business venture. Most large snails are edible and can be sold at a high price, but some breeds are more popular in specific locations, so find out what businesses in your area are after. That helps you create the right habitat and food sources, too.
Some of the things you need to consider when starting a snail farm are:
- Climate control: The ideal temperature for growing snails is between 16° to 24°C (60° to 75°F); they also need humidity, so include sprinklers and humidifiers.
- Soil requirements: Snails thrive in well-cultivated soil and groomed gardens because of their nutrient-rich quality. Calcium in the soil is important for the snail’s shell. Soil should also be at least 2 inches deep for egg-laying purposes.
- Farming system: Protect and contain snails in pens that are either inside a building or greenhouse or with plastic tunnel houses.
- Food source: Snails drink water and eat various types of feeds, but they also survive on natural food such as vegetables like cabbage, flowers, fruits, most green leaves, and microscopic algae.
- State regulations: Interstate movement and shipping of snails are strictly controlled by the USDA, as these creatures are considered invasive plant pests. Check for your state’s rules and requirements on raising a snail farm so you can obtain the necessary permits to operate.
Snail farming is still considered a niche in the US, so there is more opportunity for farmers to profit by supplying fresh snails to restaurateurs and other snail enthusiasts. There’s also a growing demand for snail slime in the cosmetics industry and even live snail facials.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Minimal space requirements | Snails need particular conditions for soil, temperature, and humidity |
| Farmers can sell to restaurants, skincare businesses, and even collectors | You will need to source the appropriate breeds of snail from a reputable source |
Estimated startup cost: Around $0.50 to $2 per juvenile snail, plus feed and supplement costs
Estimated potential revenue: $20,000+ per year
17. Mushroom Farming
Mushrooms are relatively easy to cultivate, considering that they can grow in the wild, even in the harshest of conditions. Making a profitable business out of mushroom farming will depend on knowing which mushroom strain to cultivate and how to maximize your production to become a steady supplier to other businesses.
Gourmet mushrooms such as oyster and shiitake are some of the most sought-after variations of mushrooms in the market. Indoor production provides a better harvest; they can even be grown in bags. It only takes an average of six weeks to grow and harvest mushrooms that are ready to be sold. Mushroom farmers harvest an average of 25 pounds of produce per square foot every year and sell them for $6 to $8 per pound.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Requires little space and capital to grow; mushrooms are generally hardy | You will need a thorough knowledge of mushrooms in order to cultivate them optimally |
| Certain mushroom species can get you a good profit | Market demand can vary throughout the year |
Estimated startup cost: Around $2 per pound of mushrooms, depending on the variety
Estimated potential revenue: $12 to $20 per pound of mushrooms
18. Organic Farming
Generally speaking, organic farming is a method of raising crops and livestock, but thanks to a growing market of health-conscious consumers, this method has created a niche of its own. Nowadays, you’ll find restaurants and supermarkets that market specifically for organic produce. These businesses rely on organic farmers to supply them with organically grown fruits and vegetables and organically raised, or free-roaming, livestock.
Data from the USDA suggests that organic crop yields may be 10% to 45% lower than conventional farms, but a 40-year Farming Systems Trial by the Rodale Institute found that these lower yields tended to only last for the transitional period of about five years. After that, Rodale found organic yields to be the same or higher than conventional farming, especially in times of drought. Organic foods also command a higher price. You may also need to go through a certification process to be registered as officially organic in order to sell to businesses that promote their foods as such.
Some of the popular organic farms to consider are:
- Farm-to-Table Restaurant
- Organic Grocery Wholesaler
- Organic Dairy Farm
- Organic Produce Farm
- Organic Livestock Farm
- Organic Fish Farm
The global organic farming market is expected to grow to $542.2 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2024 to 2033, per MarketResearch. It’s also a more environmentally friendly way to farm and good for the health-conscious farmer as well as consumer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Consumer interest in organic farming is trending upwards (both B2B and B2C) | Yields may be lower than with conventional farming |
| There are many options for the types of organic products you can cultivate and sell | Startup costs and required labor might be higher than with conventional farming |
Estimated startup cost: $15 to $35 per square foot of greenhouse space for organic crops
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on the crops you grow; according to Statista, organic food sales in the US reached about $63.8 billion in 2023
19. Poultry Farming
Chicken farms, especially organic ones, can achieve profits of 60% or more per batch of chickens. Plus, you can sell eggs and even poultry manure. Some farmers find profit (and fun) in raising rare breeds of chickens to sell the chicks. The downside is that poultry farming is highly regulated to ensure the safety and health of the residents within the community, so you need to know what you’re doing.
Chicken farms can net you good profits via sale of eggs or manure. (Source: Pexels)
It costs anywhere from $200 to $8,000 to build a chicken house, depending on the complexity and size. When building, think about protection, ease of access for gathering eggs, and whether you need climate control. You’ll need different breeds of chickens for different purposes. These breeds are popular for various chicken-farming revenue streams:
Best Chicken Breeds by Farm Type | |
Purpose | Best Chicken Breeds |
Breeding for Resale |
|
Egg-laying |
|
Raising for Meat (Broilers) |
|
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Chickens are versatile; you can sell meat, eggs, or manure | Startup costs (infrastructure) can be high |
| Profits can be high, especially for organic chicken farming | Profits will be limited unless you have lots of space to use |
Estimated startup cost: $75 to $1,000 per chicken pen; $3 to $5 per chick
Estimated potential revenue: Around $36 per chicken (meat) and up to $1 per organic chicken egg
20. Plant Nursery
If you simply love gardening, then a plant nursery might be a way to indulge that love for a profit. Backyard nurseries can turn as much as a 95% profit. Plants can be grown from seeds and sold for an average of $7. If you grow outdoors or use pots, the startup costs are minimal, although if you need a greenhouse, this can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on size and complexity.
When starting a nursery for profit, research what kind of plants are in demand in your area. Is there a local flower shop that would welcome quality orchids? Is there a demand for poinsettias during the Christmas season? Does the local nursery always sell out of ground cover plants?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High potential profit margins | You’ll need to perform thorough research to maximize your selling ability and find the right customers |
| You can scale your startup costs up or down depending on preference and/or available space | Labor intensive; plants will require good growing conditions, constant monitoring, and protection from pests and disease |
Estimated startup cost: Up to around $50,000 for a full business with seeds, garden equipment, greenhouse, insurance, and licenses
Estimated potential revenue: Around $7 per fully grown plant
21. Hop Farming
The growth of microbreweries has led to an increase in the demand for quality local hops. Hops can be grown in as little as one acre of land. Starting costs can be expensive—about $12,000 per acre—and usually need a year to establish their root system before they produce well. If you have the time, however, you can harvest up to 1,800 pounds of hops, which sell from $3 to $15 per pound.
Hops grow vertically on strong trellises. (Source: Envato)
Hops require at least 120 frost-free days. They grow on bines (the technical term for hop vines) that can reach 25 feet and weigh over 20 pounds, so you need strong, tall trellises. The soil needs to be loose and well-drained.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Demand is generally trending upwards | Starting costs (land, infrastructure, finances) can be high |
| Hops can be sold for use in microbreweries, as digestive aids, natural cleaning products, and more | Hops will require a few months in ideal conditions before they fully grow |
Estimated startup cost: Around $20,000 per acre of land
Estimated potential revenue: $3 to $15 per pound
Starting a small farming business aimed at supplying a large volume of produce to your local market can be costly. You may need a grant or even a business loan to get started. A well-written business plan is a first step for securing funding, plus it helps you ensure you’ve considered all the aspects of building a thriving business.
Agritourism Profitable Small Farm Ideas
Agritourism or farm tourism is a business model that derives the majority of its income from attracting visitors to experience and learn about farm life. Agritourism activities include visiting a working farm and selling fresh, organic, or even homemade produce. Both urban and rural farms benefit from this business structure, but business owners will have to invest more in advertising and marketing strategies.
22. Flower Farm
Flower farms are a popular destination for tourists, but apart from that, this type of business is versatile. It can create other avenues for income, such as supplying flower shops and event organizers. You can start a low-cost flower farm in your backyard for about $2,000 and grow from there. Like other businesses, research is key to growing your flower farm.
“One example of an agricultural business idea is a sunflower maze. A business owner can plant hundreds of sunflowers and charge a small fee for visitors to stroll through the beautiful fields of flowers every summer. They can then sell bouquets of sunflowers and other sunflower decor items at the entrance to the maze. Also, local photographers and brides will pay to reserve the field for special photo shoots. Startup costs are low—just seeds, labor, and the reasonable rental fee for an unused field by the roadside.”
— Marsha Kelly, Marketing Consultant, Best 4 Businesses
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile business model; can sell B2B or B2C; can sell products or services/experiences | A large flower farm will require lots of maintenance, especially if you grow different varieties |
| Startup costs can be low, and can scale up or down as you like | Yield, varieties, and profit will be limited if you have only a small farm |
Estimated startup cost: Around $2,000 for a small-scale backyard flower farm
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on flower variety and arrangement; up to $200 for a large prepared bouquet of various popular flowers
23. Forest Gardens
Forest gardens are picturesque and make efficient use of the land to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables together. It requires a canopy of mature trees (nut trees are good, although any native tree works), shorter fruit trees, berry-producing shrubs, perennial vegetables like rhubarb or dill, root vegetables like carrots, ground cover like Canadian ginger, and edible vine plants like cucumbers or beans.
These kinds of gardens are great community projects, although small farms can use them as part of an overall tourist experience—imagine a hike through the woods where you pick the ingredients for your own dinner!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile business model; profits and offerings are limited only by your creativity | Forest gardens are a labor-intensive business |
| Can be combined with other plant-farming business ideas | It may take a long time and lots of trial and error before your garden looks the way you envisioned |
Estimated startup cost: $5,000 to $50,000 per acre; around $100,000+ for a large forest garden with a variety of plants and trees plus enough space to walk around
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on the exact business model (selling plants, fruits, and vegetables; offering a tour experience or photo opportunities; etc.)
24. Recreational Fish Farming
Fishing is a very popular recreational activity in the US, so if you’re a fish farmer, you can start accepting visitors to fish in your ponds or lakes. Extra-large fish farms can even host different types of sport fishing and draw in more crowds. You can charge visitors by day or per pound of fish that they catch. A good marketing strategy to help you boost sales, especially if you charge per pound of fish, is to create an area for barbecuing or a rustic-style restaurant where visitors can ask to have their freshly caught fish cooked for them.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Interest in the US is high, so you have a large potential customer base | You will need access to and ownership of a decently sized body of water |
| Versatile pricing strategies or add-on experiences for which you can charge | You’ll need to stock, maintain, monitor, and grow fish to be caught by customers |
Estimated startup cost: $30,000+ for rental equipment and gear, licenses and permits, insurance (does not include cost of body of water)
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on the fish available, add-on experiences, and your pricing structure; the US fishing industry in 2023 had a market value of around $9.3 billion
25. Animal Petting Farm
Most farmers get into the petting farm business to augment their income from selling eggs, dairy, and livestock. Petting farms are not only for student field trips; families like them because they provide a more interactive experience for their children. A traveling petting zoo can be a big sell for birthday parties. Some businesses use them as an opportunity to hold team-building events. Also, be open to giving customers a sample of the products (eggs, dairy) you get from each animal and have a small store where they can buy more food products to bring home.
Customers who pay the entrance fee expect an educational experience, so have them engage with the animals while being supervised by your staff. Safety will be your first priority when you invest in a petting farm. Make sure your staff is well-trained to instruct and supervise. They will also need to know how to administer first aid.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Variety of income streams—animal petting, events, food sales, etc. | Staff will need lots of training to maximize customer safety |
| A petting farm can be a rewarding business for animal-loving entrepreneurs | Expenses for animal care and feeling will be constant, and may run high |
Estimated startup cost: $57,000+ for animal acquisition, enclosures, medical care for animals, insurance, and staff training
Estimated potential revenue: $50,000+ per year, depending on seasons, location, farm size, and additional services offered
26. Fruit Picking Farms
Fruit picking is a popular weekend activity for families, and small farms have found this to be a lucrative venture. While most entrepreneurial farmers who consider offering fruit picking have had a running farm for some time, hobbyists can also use this to generate income from the tourism aspect of the farm.
One advantage of having a “pick-your-own farm” model is that you’re able to hire fewer people to harvest your products, which reduces overhead costs. Additionally, buyers come to you, so you also reduce the cost of transporting your produce.
Fruit-picking farms interact directly with customers, so there are additional things to consider:
- Consider planting more than one type of produce if possible. Berry picking is also popular and can attract more customers.
- Provide ample parking space for visitors.
- Carefully consider the pesticides you use for your crops because your customers can be exposed if not properly handled.
- Invest in customer service training for your staff.
- Don’t ignore opportunities to supply other businesses with your produce.
Your business will largely depend on customer feedback. Be sure to make your farm safe and clean and ensure that your staff is efficient and helpful. Also, have a QR code handy at the exit or end of tours so that it’s easy for customers to leave a review on Yelp.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You can advertise your fruits as being as fresh as possible | You’ll need to monitor all crops continuously to ensure that they are presentable and ripe for picking |
| Can have lower overhead costs than other large farm or plant-based businesses | It will take time (possibly many months) before your crops are ready for picking |
Estimated startup cost: $146,000+ for land, trees and planting, irrigation, machinery, and paperwork
Estimated potential revenue: $30,000 to $70,000
27. Wedding Venues
Farms can be idyllic locations, which makes them a big demand for couples that want a beautiful backdrop for their wedding. Even small wedding venues can bring up to $10,000 or more per year. Converted barns are popular places for ceremonies and receptions. Of course, the longer you keep them celebrating on your property, the better your profit, so also think about preparation rooms, cocktail hours, after-party arrangements, and even a rustic honeymoon suite.
However, it requires more than just clearing out the barn and throwing open the doors. Here are some minimum requirements:
- Check local ordinances regarding land use, noise, and parking.
- Check with the local fire marshal about how many people your barn or venue can hold.
- Make sure you have a clear (and preferably mud-free) walk from parking to the event area or areas.
- If the wedding is planned for outdoors, do you have a last-minute foul-weather alternative?
- Consider whether you’ll rent or purchase tables, chairs, place settings, etc.
- Get to know local caterers and florists.
- Do you need an alcohol license? (It may be covered by the caterer.)
- Check to see if there is any liability insurance you may need.
- Invest in a website and photographer to take beautiful photos of your land.
If you grow flowers or vegetables, consider offering these for the catering and decor. With some imagination, beautiful centerpieces can be made with local foliage as well.
Wedding venues are profitable but can have a downside. Wedding venues can be time-intensive for the days leading to the big event. You may also be dealing with high emotions from the families during the planning phase. Guests may get drunk and wander from the designated event area.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Potentially highly profitable | Lots of planning and preparation needed—coordination with guests and authorities, contingency plans, licenses, furnishing, and more |
| Can be combined with other business ideas like flower farming/sales | Highly time and labor-intensive |
Estimated startup cost: $3,000-$5,000+ for a barn venue
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on number of guests, length of stay, and additional offerings
28. Educational Farms
Educational farms take petting farms to the next level. You provide tours, hands-on experiences, or even classes about the animals and crops on your farm. If you have a farm craft, like making herb soap or raveling alpaca fleece, then you can teach these as well. You can offer tours and classes to schools or homeschooling groups, 4-H and other clubs, or local universities. You can also sell farm products or educational materials on the side.
Not all your classes need to be in person. With good webinar software, such as those in our best webinar software guide, you can also sell classes online. Or you can create a 10-minute mini-class to post on social media as a lead magnet to your farm.
Like with other agritourism ideas, you’ll need to check your liability insurance and consider having students sign waivers. You’ll also want to develop a program and practice beforehand, including anticipating questions. However, it’s a great way to share your love for the farm life, and in some cases, even get some help.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be personally fulfilling for certain business owners | Requires a lot of paperwork and preparation for the best possible customer experience |
| Versatile income streams/selling opportunities | It will take time to develop the expertise (or hire experts) to maximize your farm’s service offerings |
Estimated startup cost: Up to $10,000 for a small farm
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on your exact offerings
Make sure your guests have something to remember the experience by. Souvenirs with your farm logo or photos make great mementos and promote your farm to others.
29. Farm Stay Experience
Farm experiences, where a vacationer stays on a farm, actually participating in farm life, have been popular since the 1990s. Farm stays are about having a wholesome experience in a natural environment, which makes small farms well-suited, especially those with organic farming. You can advertise online or through services like Airbnb.
Usually, vacationers stay on the farm (sometimes in a cabin or dedicated campsite) and help out with the chores, like feeding the animals. They may be treated to a tour or a small course on farming; others will simply take part in daily farm life like one of the family. Be sure to research the applicable liabilities and ordinances, decide what you want to offer, and, like with all agritourism experiences, consider extras like souvenirs, samples from the farm, or add-ons like actual classes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Customers themselves help out with farm operations, saving you both labor and money | You’ll need to train new batches of customers repeatedly before they can help out effectively |
| You can add various extra offerings or services for additional income | You may need additional paperwork or insurance to keep your guests protected while working on the farm |
Estimated startup cost: Up to $10,000 for a small farm
Estimated potential revenue: Depends on your exact offerings, as well as how much you save by having guests help with farm labor
Bottom Line
Small farms are often started for the love of the land, a desire to be self-sufficient, and an appreciation for the farming lifestyle. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t turn a tidy profit. If you are seriously considering going into the farming business, our list of farming business ideas can help you get started.
Reference:
1 Highlights from the December 2024 Farm Income Forecast | U.S. Department of Agriculture
