By Jamie Martin
The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reported 74.3 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms as of March 1, 2026. This is slightly higher than March 2025 but 1% lower than December 2025.
Of this total, 68.4 million were market hogs, and 5.89 million were breeding animals. Between December 2025 and February 2026, 33.2 million pigs were weaned, up 1% from the previous year. Each litter averaged 11.90 pigs weaned.
Looking ahead, producers plan for 2.86 million sows to farrow between March and May 2026, and 2.90 million sows from June through August 2026, showing steady production plans.
Iowa continues to lead in hog inventory with a 24.7 million head, followed by Minnesota at 9.30 million and North Carolina with 7.60 million. These states remain central to the nation’s swine production.
NASS conducted the survey by reaching 4,252 swine operators nationwide through multiple methods, including online portals, mail, phone, and in-person interviews. This ensures accurate and comprehensive data for the industry.
The Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report offers essential insights into the U.S. hog population and helps farmers, industry professionals, and policymakers understand current production levels, trends, and regional distributions.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-seastock
Categories: National