Learn more about one of the state’s top crops with these Illinois corn facts and farming statistics. Click on the infographic below to download a PDF version.

Illinois Corn Facts Infographic

Illinois Corn Facts

  • Illinois is home to 11 million acres dedicated to corn production across the state. (Each acre is about the size of a football field.)
  • Illinois ranks No. 2 in the nation for corn production.
  • In 2020, Illinois corn production generated more than $7 billion in cash receipts.
  • About 95% of corn farms in America are family-owned.
  • Almost 98% of corn grown in Illinois is field corn, the kind used to feed livestock and produce snacks and other products. Sweet corn accounts for about 2%.
  • Illinois farmers also grow popcorn. The state ranks No. 3 in the nation for popcorn production.
  • There are more than 4,200 uses for corn, ranging from livestock feed and ethanol to cornbread and soda to latex paint and diapers.
  • There are 56 pounds in a bushel of corn, about the weight of a large bag of dog food.
  • On average, there are 800 kernels on an ear of corn and 72,800 kernels in a bushel of corn.

See more: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Illinois-Grown Corn

Sources: National Agricultural Statistics Service, National Corn Growers Association

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