US dairy statistics 2025

As the dairy industry transitioned into 2026, the 2025 USDA dairy statistics confirmed a trend that many have already observed: the U.S. dairy herd is expanding in both size and efficiency. This growth has resulted in a robust surplus of milk across the country. While the roster of the top 10 dairy-producing states remained largely stable, a significant shift occurred at the top of the leaderboard. Idaho officially overtook Texas to claim the number three spot in total milk production. This milestone for the Gem State was driven by aggressive expansion, as Idaho led the nation in the number of new cows added to its herd compared to 2024.

The "Top 10" list also saw a change in its composition with the arrival of Iowa. The Hawkeye State’s recent dairy growth has paid dividends, earning it a firm spot at number nine in national milk production rankings.

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March 9, 2026

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