Keeping up with an acreage or small farm can be rewarding, yet tiring. Having the right tools and equipment at your disposal can make light work of large chores. We’ve compiled a list of the best John Deere tractors under 40 HP for small farms and acreages.
TRACTORS
The Best John Deere Tractors for Small Farms
Megan Schilling
July 08, 2024
Benefits of John Deere compact tractors
Small and mini John Deere tractors strike a balance between size, function, and affordability. The John Deere 1 series, 2 series, and 3 series tractors range in horsepower from 21.5 HP to 38.2 HP, providing ample power and features for the hobby farmer. The tractors on this list can haul branches, dig trenches, till gardens, plow snow, and move heavy rock or dirt. John Deere also considers your comfort; their sub-compact tractors are available with or without a cab, and higher-end models offer heat and A/C.
Affordable John Deere tractors for small farms
John Deere 1 Series 21.5 to 23.9 HP
Model: 1025R
Gross Engine HP: 24.2.HP
PTO HP: 17.2 HP
Lift Capacity: Up to 758 lbs.
Transmission Type: Hydrostatic
Mower Deck Size: Up to 60”
Cab Availability and Type: Cab optional/Heat only
According to data from the Tractor Zoom Pro database, the average cost of a John Deere 1025R, as of June 28, 2024, is $21,000, compiled from over 658 comparable listings. The data includes various model years, conditions, and locations to ensure a comprehensive market analysis.
The John Deere 1 series offers two models: The 1023E and 1025R.
Though both are great options for small acreages or those wanting to dip their toes into tractor ownership, the John Deere 1025R offers slightly more horsepower at 23.9 engine HP and 17.2 HP PTO. If you’re looking for creature comforts, opt for the heated cab to keep out the elements and LED headlights. Protected from the weather, you’ll be completing tasks in no time while riding in the upgraded seat suspension and armrests.
The bucket loader, mower attachment, and snowblade quickly attach without using tools. The 758 lb. lift capacity enables you to haul 5 cu. ft. of pea gravel, 5-7 bags of concrete mix, or 15 concrete blocks, and lighter items like branches or garden plants. John Deere’s 1025R tractor is the best for small farms and acreage owners looking for an affordable tractor and capable machine to mow large areas, maintain woodlands, and complete small- to mid-size projects.
If you’re looking for a little more horsepower to tackle a larger mid-sized acreage or landscaping projects, the John Deere 2 series might be a better fit.
John Deere 2 Series 24.2 to 36.7 HP
Model: 2032R
Gross Engine HP: 31.2 HP
PTO HP: 24.2 HP
Lift Capacity: Up to 1,120 lbs.
Transmission Type: Hydrostatic
Mower Deck Size: Up to 72”
Cab Availability and Type: Not available (upgrade to the 2038R for cab options)
The average cost of a John Deere 2032R, as of June 28, 2024, is $27,000, compiled from over 160 comparable listings. The data includes various model years, conditions, and locations to ensure a comprehensive market analysis.
The John Deere 2 Series comes in three models: The 2025R, 2032R, and 2038R.
Owners who have upgraded to the John Deere 2032R from the John Deere 1 series state a noticeable difference in power, stability, and capacity. Like the 1 Series models, the John Deere 2 Series tractor implements quickly attach to the tractor so you can get to work faster.
The 2032R is an excellent mid-size model with 31.2 engine HP that can lift 1,120 lbs. and mow with a 72” deck. For owners of mid-size acreages or more extensive landscaping or animal maintenance needs, the 2023R is a good choice. This tractor’s enhanced lifting capacity enables you to haul pallets holding 10 bags of concrete mix, 8 cu. ft. of pea gravel, or 20 concrete blocks. If you need more HP or cab options, the John Deere 2038R provides the same features but with 36.7 HP.
The John Deere 2032R is affordable for just a little more money, making it one of the best John Deere tractors for small farms.
Do you want to tackle large projects but don’t have room or budget for a full-sized utility tractor? The John Deere 3 Series tractors are the best for small farms with big projects. The largest model boasts just over 40 HP. There’s not much you can’t tackle with nine models to choose from.
John Deere 3 Series 24.7 to 45.3 HP
Model: 3039R
Gross Engine HP: 38.7 HP
PTO HP: 29.8 HP
Lift Capacity: Up to 2,100 lbs.
Transmission Type: Power Reverse Transmission
Mower Deck Size: Up to 72”
Cab Availability and Type: Yes, Heat and A/C
The average cost of a John Deere 3039R, as of June 28, 2024, is $39,000, compiled from over 160 comparable listings. The data includes various model years, conditions, and locations to ensure a comprehensive market analysis.
The John Deere 3039R is top-of-the-line regarding horsepower and amenities for compact tractors under 40 HP. If A/C is a priority for you in a John Deere Tractor, the 3033R and 3039R models are the only John Deere compact tractor models under 40 HP that provide the option of a heated and cooled cab. The 3039R offers more than just comfort on long days of plowing snow or digging trenches.
With a lifting capacity of 2,100, 38.8 gross engine HP, and 29.8 PTO HP, this tractor will tackle any job your small farm can throw at it. If you feed large round bales to cattle or horses, haul heavy manure loads, plow deep snow, tame unruly brush, or take on large landscaping projects, the John Deere 3039R is the tractor for you. While more expensive than the John Deere 1 Series and 2 Series tractors, the John Deere 3 Series is the best small John Deere tractor for those who have big plans for their land.
Finding value in used John Deere tractors for small farms
Prices for John Deere sub-compact and compact tractors can vary when searching for a used John Deere tractor for your small farm.
“Until late 2023, resale value on gently used 1-3 Series Deere tractors had been phenomenal, often within 5-10% of a new machine,” says Tim Marks, of Tractor Time with Tim. “However, the market shifted in late 2023 due to financially-strapped customers trying to sell their machines while equally financially-strapped buyers were on the sidelines.”
Unlike larger ag tractors, Marks says, most compact tractors are purchased with discretionary income and inflation has forced many to forgo optional purchases, instead focusing on the basics. However, compact tractors don’t require large volumes of oil or fuel, so even with inflated prices, maintenance costs are relatively low. The primary cost is the depreciation of the machine.
Like used cars, there are many factors to consider when pricing a used tractor. Though cars are judged by miles, tractors are judged by the number of hours on the machine. Look for a tractor with relatively low hours for the age of the machine. Low hours are typically considered to be under 1,000 hours.
Another consideration is whether the tractor has been properly maintained, has visible wear, or has had major repairs. Just like it’s not a great idea to purchase a previous rental car, buying a tractor that has been run hard, poorly maintained, or had untimely large repairs, can be a warning sign.
On the flip side, tractors with enhanced features or attachments can be an added bonus when evaluating price. When evaluating the cost of used John Deere tractors, consider creature comforts and future add-on purchases. A larger investment today might save you in the long run.
John Deere tractors are hardy machines built to last. Pay attention to the details when comparing prices on John Deere compact tractors, and you’ll walk away with a machine that can make even your biggest dreams come true on your small farm or acreage.
Compare prices and shop the hundreds of best John Deere tractors for sale for small farms from dealers and auctions nationwide.
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