Michigan Soybeans Yield & Precision Agriculture Data 2026
Michigan Soybeans yield is forecast at 51.0 bu/acre for 2026 (USDA Oct forecast) — 2.1 bu/ac below the US average of 53.1 bu/ac. State-level estimates, sourced directly from USDA NASS.
Soybeans yield trend
Michigan vs the US average, 2020–2026 (7 years of USDA NASS data)
| Year | Michigan (bu/ac) | US average (bu/ac) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 48 | 51 |
| 2021 | 51 | 51.7 |
| 2022 | 47 | 49.6 |
| 2023 | 46 | 50.6 |
| 2024 | 49 | 50.7 |
| 2025 | 48.5 | 53 |
| 2026 | 51 | 53.1 |
How Michigan compares
Top Soybeans-producing states, 2026 yield
| State | Yield (bu/ac) | vs US avg |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 68 | +28.1% |
| Indiana | 63 | +18.6% |
| Iowa | 63 | +18.6% |
| Ohio | 62 | +16.8% |
| Arkansas | 59 | +11.1% |
| Mississippi | 59 | +11.1% |
| Nebraska | 59 | +11.1% |
| Louisiana | 55 | +3.6% |
What this data means for Michigan Soybeans farmers
Michigan soybean yield is forecast at 51 bu/acre for 2026 in USDA's October forecast, up 2.5 bu/acre from the 2025 result of 48.5 bu/acre. It sits 2.1 bu/acre below the US average of 53.1 bu/acre. Over the last seven seasons the state has ranged from 46 bu/acre in 2023 to 51 bu/acre in 2021 and the 2026 forecast. Because 51 bu/acre is a forecast, USDA can still revise it.
A narrow range means steady results, so the opportunity is closing the gap with the national average. Variable-rate seeding, zone-based fertility and drainage work on heavier ground can help. At the current national price of $12.10/bu, 5 bu/acre is worth about $60 per acre, or roughly $60,500 on 1,000 acres.
Precision ag platforms used by Michigan Soybeans farmers
Overview of major platforms — features and fit for different operation sizes. No sponsored content.
Precision ag ROI calculator
Estimate annual savings for your Michigan Soybeans farm based on acreage and current yield
Estimate the payback on variable-rate seeding, zone-based fertility, and overlap reduction for your farm.
Estimate only — based on industry-average implementation costs (variable-rate seeding $18/ac, zone-based fertility $22/ac, overlap reduction $9/ac; $12,000 fixed + $17/ac ongoing) and USDA yield benchmarks, not a quote.
Frequently asked questions — Michigan Soybeans
Is the 2026 Michigan soybean yield final?
No. The 51 bu/acre figure is USDA's October forecast and can change in later reports. Treat it as an estimate for now.
Why is Michigan soybean yield below the US average?
The forecast of 51 bu/acre is 2.1 bu/acre under the US average of 53.1 bu/acre. A shorter season and variable soils can limit the state average.
How can precision agriculture pay off for Michigan soybeans?
Seeding rates and fertility can follow field zones. At $12.10/bu, each 5 bu/acre gained or protected is worth about $60 per acre.
Are there USDA programs that help Michigan soybean growers?
Yes. EQIP offers cost-share of about 75% of typical practice cost for most producers and about 90% for historically underserved producers. Apply through the local NRCS Service Center.