The Largest Landowners in the USA

The Largest Landowners in the USA

Who, is the Largest Landowners in the USA?  Land has always been one of the most enduring forms of wealth in America. While many think of corporations or the government when it comes to vast land holdings, private families and individuals also own enormous portions of U.S. soil. These holdings stretch across ranches, forests, and farmland, shaping not only local economies but also industries like agriculture, timber, and energy.

🏞️ Why Land Ownership Matters

Owning land in the U.S. isn’t just about wealth—it’s about influence. Large landowners play a significant role in:

• Food Production: Controlling millions of acres of farmland.

• Environmental Impact: Managing forests, rivers, and ecosystems.

• Energy: Leasing land for oil, gas, or renewable energy projects.

• Cultural Heritage: Preserving ranching traditions and open space.

🌎 Top 10 Private Landowners in the U.S. (2024 Estimates) -The Largest Landowners in the USA

1. John Malone – 2.2 million acres
   Known as the “Cable Cowboy” from his telecom empire, Malone is the largest private landowner in the U.S., with properties in Maine, New Mexico, and Colorado.

2. Ted Turner – 2 million acres
   The media mogul owns land across the West, known for ranching and bison herds. Turner has also been a strong advocate for conservation.

3. Emmerson Family – 2 million acres
   Owners of Sierra Pacific Industries, their holdings are largely in California and Washington, focused on timber production.

4. Reed Family – 1.7 million acres
   With roots in forestry, the Reed family owns land primarily in the Pacific Northwest.

5. Stan Kroenke – 1.6 million acres
   Sports team owner (Los Angeles Rams, Denver Nuggets) and husband to Walmart heiress Ann Walton, Kroenke’s land spans ranches and farming operations.

6. Irving Family – 1.25 million acres
   A Canadian family with extensive forestry holdings in Maine.

7. Peter Buck (Subway co-founder, estate) – 1.2 million acres
   Much of the land is managed through trusts, with holdings in Maine focused on timber.

8. Singleton Family – 1.1 million acres
   Ranching legacy across New Mexico and other western states.

9. King Ranch Heirs – 911,000 acres
   Based in Texas, the King Ranch is legendary for cattle, horse breeding, and modern ranching innovation.

10. Brad Kelley – 500,000+ acres
    An investor with extensive ranchland across Texas, Kentucky, and beyond.

📊 Perspective: How Big Is This? – The largest landowners In The USA

To put it in context:

• John Malone’s 2.2 million acres equals nearly the size of Delaware and Rhode Island combined.

• Together, the top 10 private landowners own more than 13 million acres, larger than the state of West Virginia.

🔍 Our Take:

While most Americans own homes measured in acres—or fractions of an acre—the largest U.S. landowners control landscapes that shape industries, communities, and conservation efforts. Their holdings remind us that in America, land remains one of the most powerful and lasting forms of wealth.