20 Interesting Agriculture Industry Facts

Last updated: August 2026

Texas has long been known for its thriving agriculture industry, producing a wide variety of crops and livestock. From cotton to cattle, the Lone Star State has a rich history of agriculture that continues to this day.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the top ten agriculture products produced in Texas, updated with the latest available USDA data as of 2026.

1. Cattle: Texas remains the largest cattle producing state in the United States, with 12.1 million head as of January 1, 2026, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service — even as the national herd sits at a 75-year low. The beef industry is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, with many Texans employed in beef production and processing. Source: USDA NASS Cattle Report, January 2026

2. Cotton: Texas remains the largest cotton producing state in the United States, accounting for roughly 40% of the country’s cotton production in recent seasons. The cotton industry continues to be a major export driver for the state’s economy, with the High Plains region alone responsible for about two-thirds of Texas cotton. Source: USDA Economic Research Service

3. Corn: Texas remains a top-ten corn producing state in the United States. Corn continues to be used in a variety of products, including animal feed, ethanol, and food products. Source: National Corn Growers Association

4. Hay: Texas remains one of the largest hay producing states in the United States. Hay is used as feed for livestock, and the hay industry is an important part of the state’s agriculture economy. Source: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

5. Poultry: Texas remains one of the top poultry producing states in the United States. The poultry industry is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, with many Texans employed in poultry production and processing. Source: Texas Poultry Federation

6. Sorghum: Texas remains the largest sorghum producing state in the United States. Sorghum is used as animal feed, for ethanol production, and in food products. Source: National Sorghum Producers

7. Wheat: Texas remains one of the top wheat producing states in the United States. Wheat is used in a variety of products, including bread, pasta, and animal feed. Source: Texas Wheat

8. Citrus: Texas remains one of the top citrus producing states in the United States, with grapefruit and oranges as the primary citrus crops. The citrus industry is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, with many Texans employed in citrus production and processing. Source: Texas Citrus Mutual

9. Peanuts: Texas remains one of the top peanut producing states in the United States. Peanuts are used in a variety of products, including peanut butter, candy, and snacks. Source: National Peanut Board

10. Rice: Texas remains one of the top rice producing states in the United States. Rice is used in a variety of products, including food products, beer, and sake. Source: USA Rice

Conclusion

Texas has a diverse and thriving agriculture industry, producing a wide variety of crops and livestock. The state’s agriculture industry is not only important to its economy, but also to the nation’s economy. From beef to cotton, sorghum to peanuts, and citrus to rice, the Lone Star State plays a significant role in feeding the nation and the world.

While the agriculture industry in Texas faces challenges like any other industry, such as weather fluctuations, drought conditions, and changing market demands, it remains a vital part of the state’s heritage and economy heading into 2026 and beyond.

As Texans continue to innovate and adapt to new technologies and practices, farm jobs in Texas will continue to thrive and provide for future generations.

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