Milk Cows: Inventory By State
The milk cow inventory in the United States for 2025 has slightly increased to 9,349,300 head, reflecting a modest gain of 2,500 head from 2024...
Milk Cows: Inventory By State
The milk cow inventory in the United States for 2025 has slightly increased to 9,349,300 head, reflecting a modest gain of 2,500 head from 2024. California remains the largest dairy-producing state, holding steady at 1,710,000 head, reinforcing its dominant position in the industry. Wisconsin follows with 1,265,000 head, though it saw a slight decline of 5,000 cows. Other major dairy states include Texas (675,000), New York (630,000), and Idaho (680,000), all of which continue to play a crucial role in national milk production.
Among the states with the biggest increases, Texas leads with a gain of 40,000 head, bringing its total to 675,000 and solidifying its place as a rapidly expanding dairy hub. Idaho also saw notable growth, adding 17,000 cows, while Colorado increased by 8,000 head. Other states, such as Iowa, Kansas, and South Dakota, each gained 5,000 cows, suggesting a regional shift in dairy expansion across the Midwest and High Plains.
On the declining side, Minnesota and New Mexico each lost 10,000 head, marking the most significant reductions in milk cow numbers. Oregon (-9,000), Arizona (-8,000), and Nebraska (-5,000) also posted considerable declines, indicating a shifting landscape in dairy production. These reductions may be influenced by economic pressures, environmental regulations, or changing industry dynamics, as some regions struggle to maintain their dairy herds in the face of fluctuating market conditions.
