Ranking Of States With The Most Cattle

The United States has 86.6 million head of cattle, with the top 13 states accounting for 66.22% of the total herd. Texas leads with 12.2 million head, followed by Nebraska (6.05 million) and Kansas (5.95 million).

Among states with over 3 million head, California and Oklahoma stand out. California, with 5.05 million head, has a strong dairy industry that contributes significantly to its total. Oklahoma, home to 4.6 million head, benefits from large grazing pastures and strong feeder cattle production. Missouri (3.95 million), South Dakota (3.55 million), Iowa (3.5 million), and Wisconsin (3.25 million) also surpass the 3-million mark, with a mix of cow-calf operations, dairy, and feedlot production.

States with over 2 million head include Colorado (2.55 million), Idaho (2.49 million), Montana (2.16 million), and Minnesota (2.09 million). These states play a crucial role in regional cattle markets, with Montana and Idaho known for their ranching heritage and Colorado hosting significant feedlot operations.