If you’re dreaming of a self-sufficient lifestyle—growing your own food, raising livestock, and living closer to nature—homesteading may be calling your name.
But before you can plant your first seed or build your chicken coop, there’s one essential step: buying the right piece of land.
Purchasing acreage for homesteading isn’t just about finding a large plot.
It’s about choosing land that suits your lifestyle, long-term goals, budget, and climate preferences.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process—from figuring out how much land you need, to knowing where to look, to closing the deal with confidence.
Most people think buying land for homesteading or investing is just what rich people do.
But I’ve flipped enough land to know that there are great properties out there for heavily discounted prices.
They are deals of a lifetime and you just have to find them.
This article is more about finding homestead acreage than finding the deals.
If you want to know how to get land super cheap, you should start on my article on How to double $1,000.
Just scroll down the page to where I talk about land investing and I walk you through the entire process.
Now, back to the land acreage stuff….
How Much Acreage Do You Really Need for Homesteading?
One of the most common questions aspiring homesteaders ask is: How much land is enough?
The answer is… it depends.
It depends on your goals, lifestyle, and whether you want to live off-grid, partially off-grid, or simply supplement your lifestyle with homegrown food and livestock.
Homesteading Goals and Acreage Needs
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Small-scale homestead (1–2 acres): Ideal for gardening, a few chickens, and maybe a couple of goats or rabbits. Good for supplementing your diet with fresh produce and eggs.
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Medium-scale homestead (3–10 acres): Enough space for larger gardens, small orchards, a larger flock of chickens, a couple of cows or pigs, and possibly a small pond.
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Large-scale or self-sufficient homestead (10–50+ acres): Suitable for full-scale farming, rotating livestock, timber harvesting, solar or wind power systems, and large water catchment systems.
Keep in mind that land usability is just as important as total size.
A 10-acre plot with poor soil and no water access won’t serve you as well as a fertile 3-acre parcel with a spring and good sun exposure.
You’ve got to weigh the good with the bad when you’re picking your plot.
Best States and Areas for Homesteading
Where you decide to buy your acreage is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make.
The ideal state or region depends on factors like climate, cost of living, legal regulations, and access to natural resources.
Top States for Homesteading in the U.S.
1. Tennessee
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Mild climate with long growing seasons
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No state income tax
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Affordable rural land prices
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Homesteading-friendly laws and lenient building codes in many counties
2. Missouri
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One of the most affordable states for buying rural land
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Fertile soil and reliable rainfall
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Fewer zoning restrictions in rural areas
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Abundant water sources
3. Idaho
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Ideal for off-grid and self-sufficient living
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Abundant natural resources (timber, game, water)
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Low population density
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Strong community of homesteaders
4. Kentucky
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Fertile soil and excellent conditions for growing food
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Low property taxes
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Moderate climate
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Affordable acreage
5. Maine
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Large tracts of cheap land
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Abundant water and forest resources
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Supportive local food movement
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Ideal for those who don’t mind cold winters
Other Considerations When Choosing a Location
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Climate: Make sure your desired crops and animals are suited to the climate.
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Water access: A well, stream, or spring can save thousands of dollars.
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Zoning laws and land use regulations: Some states and counties are more permissive about livestock, composting toilets, and off-grid energy.
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Proximity to resources: Being too remote may make it hard to get supplies or healthcare, but being too close to urban centers can increase land costs.
How to Find Good Deals on Homestead Acreage
Land prices vary widely based on location, condition, and access to utilities.
Here’s how to scout out hidden gems and avoid overpaying.
1. Search Beyond Traditional Listings
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Owner-financed land websites: Sites like LandWatch, Land And Farm, and Rural Vacant Land offer great off-market options.
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County tax sales and auctions: You can often find deeply discounted land from owners who’ve defaulted on taxes.
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Local real estate agents: Look for those who specialize in rural or agricultural properties.
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Networking with locals: Visit rural communities and ask around. Word of mouth can lead to private sales not listed online.
2. Consider Buying Raw or Unimproved Land
Raw land (no utilities, buildings, or roads) is much cheaper per acre but will require more upfront work.
If you’re handy and willing to develop it over time, this can be a smart investment.
3. Look for Bulk Deals or Subdividable Parcels
Large tracts are often priced more competitively per acre.
You may be able to subdivide and sell part of the land later to recoup costs.
4. Check for Owner Financing
Some landowners offer flexible financing terms—especially if they’re motivated sellers.
This can be a game-changer if you don’t qualify for a traditional loan.
You can also spend some time learning about land financing options.
What to Watch Out For When Buying Homesteading Land
It’s easy to fall in love with a picturesque piece of land, but homesteading success depends on smart buying decisions.
Watch for these potential red flags:
1. No Legal Access
Ensure the property has a deeded legal access road.
Landlocked parcels may be cheap, but without legal access, you could be stuck in a lengthy court battle or need to negotiate easements.
The one caveat to this and I’ve mentioned it in other articles is the fact that the world is changing and I believe that flying vehicles are coming.
So if you’re a risk taker, you may be able to pick up a great 10-50 acre or more deal that has no legal access and be able to access it later down the road when technology changes.
2. Poor Soil Quality
Always test the soil before buying.
You can use a basic soil test kit or hire a professional.
Acidic, sandy, or clay-heavy soil can be difficult to work with.
3. Limited or Contaminated Water Supply
Check for nearby water sources, and test well water for contaminants.
A dry well or polluted stream can kill your homesteading dreams quickly.
4. Zoning and Restrictions
Some areas prohibit livestock, farming, or off-grid living. Ask the county zoning office about:
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Land use restrictions
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Building codes
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Septic and well permits
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Livestock allowances
5. Flood Zones or Wildfire Risks
Use FEMA’s online flood maps and local wildfire risk maps to assess risk.
Insurance may be expensive—or even unavailable—in high-risk areas.
6. Hidden Costs
These can include:
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Installing a septic system ($3,000–$10,000+)
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Drilling a well ($5,000–$15,000)
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Bringing in electricity (can cost $10,000+ if you’re far from the grid)
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Land clearing, fencing, and road building
Final Thoughts: Take Your Time and Do Your Research
Homesteading is a rewarding journey, but it begins with a critical decision—buying the right land.
Don’t rush into a deal just because the price looks good.
Visit the land in person, talk to neighbors, review zoning laws, and conduct thorough due diligence.
Remember, the best acreage for homesteading isn’t just about how much land you get—it’s about what that land can do for you and how well it supports your long-term goals.
Whether you’re starting with a modest garden or aiming for complete off-grid self-sufficiency, buying the right acreage sets the foundation for a resilient, fulfilling homestead life.
FREE LIVE WEBINAR ABOUT FLIPPING LAND
Other Interesting Articles:
Land vs. Houses – Which is a Better Investment?
Things to Consider BEFORE Investing in Land
(One strategy is flipping land and I go in depth on how to get started and the margins I’ve personally made)
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God Bless,
Jason and Daniele
