Tampa, FL, June 26th, 2025–Written by Nick Cannella
In 2025, Florida’s land use map is evolving faster than ever. From former citrus groves to cow pastures and row crop fields, agricultural land across the state is being repositioned into something entirely new—whether that’s housing, logistics hubs, or even solar energy farms.
For Florida landowners, understanding these emerging trends isn’t just interesting—it’s essential. The shift in how land is valued, entitled, and marketed can open up major opportunities, especially for those sitting on large tracts near growing metros or utility corridors.
At Eshenbaugh Land Company, we specialize in helping landowners navigate this changing landscape. Below, we break down the most significant land use trends shaping Florida in 2025—and what they mean for sellers like you.
1. Agricultural Land Conversion Is Accelerating
Florida’s long agricultural tradition is being reshaped by development pressure. As demand for housing, industrial space, and infrastructure continues to climb, we’re seeing more active farmland being sold for redevelopment than in years past.
What’s driving this trend?
- Population growth: Florida remains one of the fastest-growing states.
- Aging ag operations: Many generational farms are being sold as heirs pursue different paths.
- Rising land values: Developers are paying premiums for large tracts close to infrastructure.
From citrus groves impacted by greening disease to pastureland outside suburban edges, ag conversion is increasingly common in counties like Polk, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pasco.
2. Solar Fields Are Gaining Ground
One of the most noticeable land use shifts in 2025 is the rise of solar energy farms. Across Central and North Florida, utility companies and solar developers are actively leasing or purchasing land to meet Florida’s expanding renewable energy goals.
Ideal solar land characteristics:
- 100+ acres of flat, cleared land
- Close proximity to transmission lines or substations
- Minimal wetlands or floodplain issues
- Limited zoning restrictions (agricultural or rural residential preferred)
For landowners, this offers an alternative to traditional sale. Many solar developers are offering long-term ground leases—providing passive income for 20–40 years.
Tip: If your land fits the profile, we can connect you with vetted solar groups actively seeking new projects.
3. Mixed-Use Developments Are Expanding Outward
As urban cores become more saturated, mixed-use developments—including residential, retail, and light industrial—are moving into the exurban fringe. Land that was once too remote for developers is now in the path of growth.
In 2025, we’re seeing projects that integrate:
- Single-family homes and townhomes
- Small-scale retail centers
- Community amenities and parks
- Warehousing or last-mile logistics facilities
Counties like Sumter, Hernando, and Lake are seeing a surge in these integrated land use plans, often through Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) and entitlement bundling.
Opportunity: If you own raw land near a growth corridor, a mixed-use vision could dramatically increase your property’s value.
4. Industrial & Distribution Uses Continue to Dominate
The e-commerce boom continues to fuel demand for warehouse and logistics land, particularly along Florida’s major transportation routes like I-4, I-75, and SR 60.
In 2025, expect continued interest in:
- 40–100 acre industrial sites with road frontage
- Entitled or near-entitled land zoned for light industrial use
- Properties within an hour of major ports, airports, or rail lines
Developers want flat, dry land with good access to workforce populations and major highways. If you’re sitting on a large ag tract with industrial potential, it’s time to get your zoning reviewed.
5. Conservation and Easement Sales Remain Strong
While development is the headline trend, conservation remains a major force in Florida land use. State and federal agencies continue to fund the purchase of conservation easements and preserve environmentally sensitive lands.
Key conservation land characteristics:
- Critical wildlife corridors
- Wetlands, headwaters, or floodplain
- Adjacent to existing preserves or greenways
For landowners who want to retain ownership but limit development, a conservation easement can provide financial benefits and tax advantages. It’s a viable path for ranchers, farmers, and multigenerational families looking to protect their land’s legacy while realizing its value.
6. Entitlements Are Driving Premium Pricing
One of the clearest trends in 2025: entitled land sells for more—faster.
Whether it’s zoning, Future Land Use approvals, or pre-application meetings with municipalities, even partial progress in the entitlement process adds value and reduces buyer risk.
Sellers who have:
- Conducted wetland delineations
- Initiated rezoning or annexation
- Secured utility or access agreements
…are seeing offers from builders and developers well above those offered for raw land with unknowns.
Bottom line: If your land is near growth and has development potential, talking to a land broker about light entitlement work can give you a major edge.
7. Florida Landowners Are Becoming Strategic Seller
Perhaps the biggest shift in 2025 is in mindset. Florida landowners are realizing that the traditional “wait for the phone to ring” approach no longer works.
Instead, they’re:
- Getting broker opinions of value before listing
- Learning how zoning affects price
- Exploring the benefits of dividing or repositioning land
- Proactively engaging with brokers who know the development landscape
In today’s market, strategic sellers are commanding stronger terms, faster timelines, and more qualified buyers.
Final Thoughts: Know Where Your Land Fits in the 2025 Market
Florida’s land use is shifting rapidly, and that brings both risk and opportunity. Whether your land is in agriculture, has mixed-use potential, or could become part of the solar revolution, knowing how your property fits into the 2025 trends can unlock significant value.
At Eshenbaugh Land Company, we work with landowners across Florida to analyze market trends, evaluate development potential, and connect properties with the right buyers or partners. Our experience navigating zoning, wetlands, entitlements, and buyer networks means we can help you get ahead of the market—not chase it.
📞 Have Land You’re Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk.
If you’re considering selling your land—or just want to understand its value in today’s changing market—call us at (813) 287-8787 or visit www.thedirtdog.com.
We’ll help you identify your best options, avoid common pitfalls, and guide you from “just dirt” to a deal done right.