Florida’s land market is experiencing a shift, with large-acreage and institutional land transactions on the rise, according to the latest report from Sanders Real Estate brokerage firm. In 2024, over 72,000 acres of agricultural land were sold and repurposed for residential, solar, and commercial development. While this reflects the state’s economic growth and increasing land values, it also highlights concerns about the pressure on agricultural land and the challenges faced by farmers.
The report emphasizes the need for effective conservation strategies, such as investment in conservation easements, to preserve Florida’s agricultural heritage as the land market continues to evolve. Despite a slight decline in overall transaction volume, Florida remains a top destination for land purchases in 2025, driven by large-acreage deals and institutional investments.
While smaller investors have been hesitant due to rising interest rates and uncertainty, major players are actively consolidating land and focusing on large-scale acquisitions. Ranch and recreational land continues to be in demand, with tracts over 500 acres generating more interest from buyers. Farmland purchases are also solid, with the average size of a transaction being 397.64 acres at an average price of $10,403.56 per acre.
The report also notes a doubling in citrus land transactions in 2024 compared to the previous year, particularly in Polk and Hardee counties. This growing interest in citrus acreage is attributed to shifting land use trends and demand for agricultural properties. As Florida’s land market evolves, it is essential to balance economic growth with the preservation of agricultural land and heritage.
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