The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the January 1, 2026, Cattle Inventory Report on January 30, 2026, indicating a continued contraction in the U.S. cattle herd, though the rate of decline has slowed. Total cattle and calves in the United States as of Jan. 1, 2026, totaled 86.2 million head, slightly below the 86.5 million head on Jan. 1, 2025.
Key Findings of the Jan. 1, 2026 Report:
Key data points from the report include:
- Total Cattle and Calves were 86.2 million head, a 0.3% decrease from 2025.
- Total Cows and Heifers that Calved numbered 37.2 million head, a slight dip from the previous year.
- Beef Cows totaled 27.6 million head, down 1% year-over-year.
- Milk Cows increased by 2% to 9.57 million head.
- All Heifers 500+ lbs were 18.0 million head, a 1% decrease from 2025.
- Beef Replacement Heifers saw a 1% increase to 4.71 million head, suggesting a slow start to herd rebuilding.
- Milk Replacement Heifers were slightly down from the previous year at 3.90 million head.
- Steers 500+ lbs were down 1% to 15.6 million head.
- The 2025 calf crop was estimated at 33.5 million head, a 1% decrease from 2024.