There’s an old saying in real estate: “Buy land. They aren’t making any more of it.” It’s timeless advice that feels more relevant than ever as America continues to lose farmland at an alarming pace.
According to the American Farmland Trust’s “Farms Under Threat” report, the United States lost roughly 11 million acres of agricultural land between 2001 and 2016. That’s about 2,000 acres every single day. When factoring in low-density residential development, the loss climbs to about 2 million acres per year. Without stronger protection and smarter planning, projections show that the U.S. could lose another 18 million acres of farmland by 2040.
The USDA’s National Resources Inventory found similar trends, reporting that from 1982 to 2017, more than 31 million acres of cropland, pasture, and rangeland were converted to non-agricultural uses. Even today, we continue to lose 1 to 2 million acres annually, often to urban sprawl, infrastructure expansion, or solar development.
Why It Matters
Land is more than just soil beneath our feet. It’s the foundation of our food supply, open spaces, and rural way of life. Every acre lost to development represents more than a number. It’s a piece of heritage, a stretch of productivity, and a connection to something bigger than ourselves. Once farmland is paved over, it’s gone forever.
As agricultural land disappears, the ripple effects are far-reaching. Food production becomes more dependent on fewer regions, which increases transportation costs and environmental impact. Rural communities shrink as family farms disappear, taking local jobs and traditions with them. Wildlife habitats and natural resources that thrive in open, managed landscapes are also put at risk.
But the importance of land extends beyond agriculture. Open land offers peace, privacy, and the kind of space that simply can’t be found in crowded neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking to build a home, start a business, run livestock, or simply hold a tangible asset that appreciates over time, owning land gives you both freedom and opportunity.
Investing in What Lasts
For families, investors, and those seeking a connection to the land, these trends serve as a reminder that real estate isn’t just about property lines or price per acre. It’s about legacy, stewardship, and long-term value. While markets fluctuate and trends shift, land remains one of the most stable investments you can make.
Historically, land ownership has been one of the surest ways to build and preserve wealth. Unlike stocks or other investments, land doesn’t vanish or depreciate from obsolescence. With thoughtful management, it often grows in value while providing personal and practical use in the meantime.
At Triangle Realty, we’ve seen firsthand how owning land changes lives. It’s not just a transaction — it’s a foundation for the future. From productive farmland and ranches to scenic recreational tracts, we help buyers find properties that meet their goals today and create opportunities for tomorrow.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, now is the time to explore the land market and discover what’s possible. As demand for rural property continues to rise and available acreage becomes more limited, the value of owning a piece of Texas — or anywhere you can plant roots — has never been clearer.
At the end of the day, the saying still rings true: Buy land. They aren’t making any more of it. And at Triangle Realty, we’re here to help you find the right piece to call your own.