The United States is the world’s leading producer of beef. In 2023, cattle production accounted for nearly 17% of the country’s total value of agricultural commodities. But which states have the most cattle ? Keep reading to discover the top six states that produce the most beef and cattle.
6. Kansas – 1.3 million
Ranchers in Kansas raise 1.32 million head of beef cattle that graze on over 15 million acres of pastures. Beef production is the largest agricultural sector in Kansas, employing over 34,000 people and resulting in over $6 billion of economic output. In addition, Kansas is a leading state for cattle processing, ranking second in the nation in 2021.
5. South Dakota – 1.6 million
South Dakota is a leading producer of bison as well as beef cattle.
©Tim Malek/Shutterstock.com
While South Dakota’s dairy farms and crop growers are only found in specific regions , beef cattle are raised on farms throughout the state. There are approximately 1.61 million head of beef cattle in South Dakota, representing 5.3% of the country’s beef cow inventory.