Study Shows Iowa Pork Industry is Vital to State’s Economy

Iowa’s hard working pig farmers are a vital component of the state’s economy, as shown by a new study released by the Iowa Pork Producers Association. The data verifies Iowa’s status as the number one pork producing state in the nation, providing 33% of the U.S. hog inventory, and creating more than 120,000 jobs. Providing Jobs, Economic Activity Iowa’s 5,172 pig farms help create more than 64,000 jobs in the state from hog production, more than 39,000 from hog slaughter, and more than 16,000 from hog processing, totaling 120,231. The pork industry contributed $15.4 billion in value added to Iowa’s economy in 2024. Iowa Pork Industry Economic Contribution By the Numbers: $15.4 billion in value added to the state’s economy. More than 120,000 jobs supported statewide. $8.0 billion in household income. $40.5 billion in total sales. More than $2.7 billion in taxes paid. Breakdown of $15.4 billion in value added: $9.9 billion from hog production. $3.9 billion from hog slaughter. $1.5 b