Florida citrus acreage falls 21% in one year

Commercial citrus acreage in Florida has declined by nearly 21% over the past year, according to a preliminary inventory from the USDA. As the 2026-2027 season approaches, approximately 66,919 hectares across 23 counties are dedicated to producing oranges, grapefruit, and specialty citrus.

This decline is part of a long-term downward trend. Compared to 2016 and 2006, acreage has dropped by 65% and 73%, respectively. Polk County saw the largest annual reduction with a loss of 4,429 hectares, though it remains the state's leading producer. Highlands County follows as the second largest.

Industry experts attribute the two-decade contraction to several factors, including hurricanes, frost, citrus greening disease, shifting consumer habits, and urban development pressure. Notably, Alico, Inc. has decided to end its citrus operations in Southwest Florida to focus on land sales, leasing, and development.