MOSCOW, ID — Agriculture continues to play a major role in Idaho’s economy, generating a record $44.5 billion in annual sales and accounting for 17.2% of the state’s total economic output, according to a new report from the University of Idaho.
The study, based on 2024 data, also found the industry supports approximately 137,900 jobs statewide — about one in every nine jobs in Idaho.
The report, compiled by University of Idaho agricultural economist Philip Watson, highlights continued growth in the state’s agricultural sector. Total economic impact has increased significantly from $37.5 billion in 2022, while employment has also risen from 126,800 jobs.
Watson noted the findings reflect agriculture’s deep ties across Idaho’s broader economy, extending beyond farms and ranches to include industries such as food processing, supply chains, and household spending.
“Agriculture is growing, and this is the largest contribution of agriculture into the Idaho economy in history,” Watson said in the report.
Despite the growth, agriculture’s share of the overall economy has remained relatively steady, increasing only slightly in recent years — a sign that other sectors in Idaho are also expanding.
The report ranks Idaho among the top states nationally for agricultural production, including No. 1 rankings in potatoes, barley, alfalfa, trout and peppermint oil. The state also ranks second in hops and third in commodities such as sugar beets, milk and cheese.
Agricultural sales alone — not including broader economic ripple effects — were estimated at $32.7 billion and supported about 79,000 jobs.
Exports of Idaho agricultural products held steady at roughly $2.8 billion. Researchers attribute the plateau in exports to growth in in-state food processing, allowing more products to be refined and sold within Idaho rather than shipped out as raw goods.
Watson said the shift signals a maturing industry, with more value-added production taking place locally.
The report is updated every three years and is often used to inform policymakers about the scale and importance of agriculture in Idaho’s economy.
