What Are the Top 5 Commodities in the United States?

Commodities represent fundamental building blocks of the economy, serving as raw materials and primary products essential for manufacturing and consumption. These basic goods are often interchangeable, meaning their quality is generally uniform regardless of the producer. In a large and diverse economy like the United States, commodities play a foundational role, underpinning various industries from agriculture to energy. Their availability and market dynamics significantly influence economic stability and growth across the nation.

Understanding Top Commodities

Identifying “top” commodities involves evaluating several key metrics that highlight their economic significance. These measures typically include overall production value, the volume of trade (both exports and imports), and their direct contribution to various economic sectors. The focus remains on commodities demonstrating substantial economic impact, though the definition of “top” can vary by metric. This article will explore five key commodities that consistently rank high by these measures, showcasing their importance to the United States economy.

The United States’ Key Commodities

Crude Oil

Crude oil, a foundational energy commodity, serves as a primary source for transportation fuels, industrial processes, and electricity generation. Major production areas in the United States include states such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Colorado, which collectively account for a significant portion of the nation’s oil and gas output. The economic significance of crude oil is substantial, with the natural gas and oil industry supporting millions of jobs and contributing nearly $1.8 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2021.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is an abundant and versatile energy source, widely used for electricity generation, industrial operations, and residential heating. The United States has become the world’s largest producer of natural gas, largely due to advancements in shale development technologies. This domestic abundance helps to lower energy costs for consumers and businesses, contributing to economic growth. The direct use of natural gas supports millions of jobs and adds hundreds of billions of dollars to the nation’s GDP annually.

Corn

Corn stands as the primary U.S. feed grain, with the United States being the world’s largest producer and exporter. The majority of corn production occurs in the Heartland region, particularly in states like Iowa and Illinois. Corn’s primary uses include livestock feed, fuel ethanol production, and various food and industrial products such as starch and sweeteners. Corn farming generated an estimated $123 billion in total economic output in 2024, contributing significantly to the GDP and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across all 50 states.

Soybeans

Soybeans are a major agricultural commodity, serving as a versatile crop used in food, animal feed, industrial products, and biofuels. Key production states include Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Indiana, and Ohio. The U.S. is one of the world’s leading soybean producers, with its production accounting for over 30 percent of the world supply in recent years. The soybean sector has a substantial impact on the U.S. economy, averaging an economic contribution of $124 billion annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Livestock (Cattle)

Livestock, particularly cattle, represents a significant component of the U.S. agricultural sector. These animals are primarily raised for meat and dairy products, contributing directly to the food supply chain. The industry’s operations span across many states, with family farms playing a prominent role in production. In 2022, cattle and calves alone contributed $86.1 billion to the U.S. economy.