Study Finds Farmers Spent $1.4 Billion More on Diesel During Planting

A new analysis found that U.S. farmers spent $1.4 billion more on diesel fuel during the 2025-2026 planting season, a 63% increase from the previous year. The study also found that the average cost to refill an on-farm diesel tank increased by $1,538, with the largest increases occurring in states including California, Washington, Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Rising fuel costs add to the financial pressures facing producers as they manage already elevated operating expenses.

Higher input costs can ripple throughout the agricultural economy, creating challenges for farmers while affecting equipment dealers, fuel suppliers, agricultural lenders, insurers and businesses that serve rural communities. As production expenses rise, producers are likely to place even greater emphasis on efficiency, cost management and investments that improve productivity.