The U.S. dairy industry continues to be a driving force behind the American economy according to the newly released 2025 Dairy Delivers report from the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). This biennial analysis reaffirms dairy’s powerful role in job creation, economic output and community sustainability across the country.
The updated report shows dairy supports:
- 3.05 million American jobs
- $197.6 billion in wages
- Nearly $780 billion in total economic impact
- $83 billion in federal, state and local taxes
- $8.2 billion in annual exports
“The data is clear: Dairy runs deep in every community across America,” says Michael Dykes, DVM, president and CEO of IDFA. “From family-owned dairy farms to processors, retailers and community businesses, dairy supports livelihoods, sustains local economies, and delivers real value to the people who depend on it. These numbers reflect more than economics; they reflect the reach and relevance of dairy in the daily lives of Americans.”
As part of the release, IDFA also unveiled a series of graphics highlighting the top dairy economic states. Take a peek at the following:
In celebration of National Dairy Month, IDFA is ramping up efforts to share dairy’s story through events, media outreach and social media, making sure both the public and lawmakers see just how much value the U.S. dairy industry brings to communities across the country. Whether it’s supporting jobs, fueling local economies or putting nutritious food on the table, dairy’s impact is everywhere.
Your Next Read: The Kids Aren’t Coming Back to the Farm – Now What?
