Total value for San Luis Obispo County agriculture exceeded $1 billion for the fourth consecutive year, reflecting the continued strength and sustainability of the county’s agricultural industry. Market demands, along with international influences for the various commodities offered by local producers impacted selected agricultural product values, however overall San Luis Obispo County’s agricultural production remained steady.
San Luis Obispo County 2024 Crop Statistics
The top ten commodities by value in 2024 were:
1. Strawberries
2. Wine Grapes
3. Cattle and Calves
4. Avocados
5. Broccoli
6. Lettuce, Head
7. Vegetable and Ornamental Transplants
8. Lettuce, Leaf
9. Lemons
10. Cauliflower
These figures represent only commodity gross values and do not reflect net profits received by local agricultural producers and do not include multipliers related to secondary economic benefits.
Overall, producers benefited from the diverse climate conditions across the region, underscoring the versatility of the county’s agricultural economy. The animal sector held steady, supported by a 3% increase in the number of head sold and a 12% rise in cattle prices. Field crops showed mixed results, though alfalfa hay stood out with production up more than 36% and overall value climbing 43% from last year. In the fruit and nut sector, strawberries gained top position as the county’s leading crop. Avocados and lemons posted a strong year, with values increasing 64% and 95% respectively, while winegrapes faced a 40% decline in value due to reduced sales across all varietals. Nursery products continued to face challenges from shifting market demand and higher overhead costs, resulting in a 7% decrease in total value for the sector. By contrast, the vegetable sector surged 15% compared to 2023, achieving its second highest gross value in the past decade. Broccoli, cabbage, cilantro, and lettuce were top performers, benefiting from expanded acreage and higher prices.
“Despite declines in certain sectors, San Luis Obispo’s agriculture remains a strong economic driver for the County. The diversity of the County’s agriculture, with over one hundred different crop types produced, is a key factor in its sustainability. Coupled with the resilience of our local farmers and ranchers, agriculture is poised to remain a mainstay in our economy and culture,” said Martin Settevendemie, Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer.
