Illinois offers an exceptional rural land market dominated by some of the most productive agricultural soil in the world alongside diverse recreational opportunities. The Prairie State encompasses varying landscapes across its 57,914 square miles, transitioning from the gently rolling terrain of northern Illinois to the flat, fertile central plains and the more varied topography of the southern region. The state's agricultural prominence stems from its deep, nutrient-rich prairie soils, particularly the legendary black dirt of central Illinois that consistently produces outstanding corn and soybean yields. Beyond its agricultural value, Illinois features varied ecosystems including woodlands along major river systems like the Mississippi, Illinois, and Ohio Rivers, creating excellent recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat.

Illinois rural properties serve multiple purposes, though agricultural production remains the dominant land use with approximately 75% of the state dedicated to farming. Central Illinois contains some of the nation's most valuable farmland, with premium prices reflecting exceptional soil productivity indexes and consistent yields. For recreational users, the state offers excellent hunting land for whitetail deer, turkey, and waterfowl, particularly in western and southern counties bordering major rivers where agricultural land meets forested terrain. These transitional zones provide ideal wildlife habitat and are especially sought after by hunting enthusiasts. Waterfront properties along the state's rivers and numerous lakes also create valuable recreational opportunities. Illinois' central location and excellent transportation infrastructure make it strategically valuable for agricultural production with exceptional access to markets. Land.com connects buyers with sellers throughout Illinois' diverse regions, from the Wisconsin border to the Ohio River. Begin your search today and save your preferences to receive updates when new Illinois properties matching your criteria become available.

FAQ

What regions of Illinois offer the best value for farmland purchases?

While central Illinois counties like Champaign, McLean, and Macon command premium prices for their highly productive farmland, better values can often be found in western Illinois along the Mississippi River and in southern Illinois, which still offer good agricultural potential but typically at lower per-acre costs. Properties with lower productivity indexes but good location can represent excellent value opportunities.

How is farmland quality measured in Illinois?

Illinois farmland quality is primarily measured using the Productivity Index (PI), which rates soil productivity on a scale typically ranging from about 40 to 147. Higher PI values indicate greater productive capacity and generally command higher prices. Additionally, properties may be evaluated based on corn suitability rating (CSR) or other soil classification systems. Land.com listings often include these metrics to help buyers assess agricultural value.

What should buyers know about drainage systems when purchasing Illinois farmland?

Much of Illinois' highly productive farmland relies on extensive subsurface tile drainage systems to manage water levels. When evaluating farmland, investigate the age, type, and condition of existing drainage infrastructure, as well as drainage patterns across the property. Well-maintained modern drainage systems can significantly enhance productivity and represent substantial added value in the purchase price.

Which areas of Illinois are best for recreational and hunting properties?

Western Illinois counties bordering the Mississippi River (Pike, Adams, Hancock) and southern Illinois counties (Union, Johnson, Pope) offer excellent hunting land with abundant deer populations, including trophy-class whitetails. Properties featuring diverse habitat including timber stands, agricultural fields, and water sources typically yield the best hunting experiences and command premium prices among recreational buyers.

How do agricultural property tax assessments work in Illinois?

Illinois taxes farmland based on its agricultural economic value rather than market value, using a formula that considers soil productivity, commodity prices, and production costs. This system helps keep agricultural taxes manageable despite rising land values. Recreational properties without agricultural use are typically assessed at market value unless they qualify for specific conservation programs that may provide tax benefits.