U.S. livestock and animal agriculture is a vital part of the economy, producing meat, dairy, and poultry that support food security and generate significant revenue. This sector includes dairy, beef, pork, and poultry operations facing unique production cycles and market pressures. As of July 2025, the cattle inventory stands at historic lows since 1951, with beef cows at 28.7 million head and milk cows at 9.45 million[6].
Production Trends
Milk production is forecast at 230.0 billion pounds for 2025, with the dairy herd averaging 9.46 million head[2]. Beef production is projected to decline by 2-4.5% due to herd contraction from drought and low heifer retention[1][4]. Pork output remains stable or grows slightly amid herd expansion, while poultry production rises with strong broiler and turkey forecasts[1][2].
Market Outlook
Tight supplies drive record-high prices, with fed steers at $221.50 per hundredweight and livestock receipts reaching $298.6 billion[3]. Net farm income is expected to rebound to $179.8 billion, led by livestock gains despite crop challenges[3].
Regulatory Protections
Federal oversight ensures product safety through rules on animal drugs and contamination prevention. Learn more about animal drug and food safety.
An Independent Team to Decode Government
GovFacts is a nonpartisan site focused on making government concepts and policies easier to understand — and programs easier to access.
Our articles are referenced by trusted think tanks and publications including Brookings, CNN, Forbes, Fox News, Pew Research, Snopes, The Hill, and USA Today.
