Average Cost of an Acre of Land in North Carolina (2026)
The average value of farmland in North Carolina is about $5,470 per acre based on the latest USDA data, roughly 26% above the national average of $4,350. North Carolina land has risen with the state's growth, up 5.4% in the latest year. The Research Triangle and Charlotte regions push prices well above the rural Coastal Plain and the mountains.
Average agricultural land values from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, Land Values 2025 Summary (August 2025). Building lots and developed parcels sell for more; always check recent local sales.
Price your own parcel
What affects land prices in North Carolina
- The Triangle and Charlotte. Land near Raleigh-Durham and Charlotte carries a steep growth premium.
- Region matters. Mountains, Piedmont, and coast each price very differently.
- Pasture demand. NC grazing land is among the highest-valued in the region, driven by hobby-farm and equestrian buyers.
- Development potential. Parcels with road access and build-friendly zoning sell well above farm-use land.
How North Carolina compares
At about $5,470 an acre, North Carolina sits 26% above the US average of $4,350. Cropland here averages $5,360 an acre and pasture $6,050, against national figures of $5,830 and $1,920. These are working-farmland averages: a buildable lot near a city runs well above them, and raw, remote acreage well below.
Common questions
On average, about $5,470 per acre for farmland in the latest USDA figures. That's the agricultural average; a buildable lot near a city costs more and remote acreage less. Enter a local listing price in the calculator above to price your own parcel.
Yes. North Carolina farmland rose 5.4% in the latest USDA report, faster than the national average of 4.3%.
No. The USDA figure is average agricultural land value. Residential and commercial building lots sell well above it. Treat the average as a floor for rural acreage and compare against recent local sales before you buy.
43,560 square feet. Use the square feet to acres tool to convert any lot size, in either direction.
These are planning estimates based on USDA agricultural land values, not an appraisal. Land prices vary widely by county, parcel, access, and use. Confirm with recent local sales or a licensed appraiser before buying or selling.