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Mainstreet economy dips in latest RMI survey

The latest Rural Mainstreet Index reveals declining economic conditions in the Midwest.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss says the September survey showed the region’s economic index sank below growth neutral for the seventh time in 2025.

“Agricultural commodity prices are not where they need to be. In fact, if you’re talking about looking at corn, soybeans, and wheat, those three are essentially below break-even for most of the farmers out there.”

He tells Brownfield, “With costs rising and your revenue and prices staying the same, you have to depend on yields.”

The RMI is a monthly survey of ag bankers in 10 states including Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota.

Goss says three of four bank CEOs reported that tariff increases have had a negative impact on farm operations.

“What that is of course is retaliation in some cases to our products sold abroad. Farmers depend heavily on exports.”

Goss says the survey says rural bankers remain pessimistic about economic growth for their area over the next six months.