U.S. Pistachio Industry Hits Record Highs with Massive 2025 Crop

April 25, 2026

The U.S. pistachio industry is reaching new heights, with record-breaking production, acreage, and demand highlighting a banner year for the sector.

According to USDA research economist Katherine Weber, the 2025 crop is shaping up to be one of the most significant in history, with multiple milestones achieved across the industry.

Pistachio bearing acreage is estimated to have reached a record 520,000 acres, surpassing the half-million mark for the first time. Production is also expected to hit new highs, with initial estimates placing the 2025 crop at 1.57 billion pounds—potentially the largest on record.

If realized, it would mark the 10th consecutive year the United States has led the world in pistachio production.

The increase is driven in part by the crop’s natural alternate bearing cycle, with 2025 representing a high-yield “on year.” Production is up an estimated 43% year-over-year, reflecting both improved yields and expanded acreage.

At the same time, strong demand continues to support the industry’s growth. Domestic shipments are running ahead of last year, with volumes up 4% midway through the current marketing year.

Pistachios are also gaining ground in consumer preference. On a per capita basis, availability reached approximately 0.7 pounds per person, ranking second only to almonds among major tree nuts—and ahead of walnuts and pecans.

Industry growth has been steady and significant over time. Pistachio acreage has expanded nearly fivefold over the past two decades, surpassing walnuts in 2021 to become the second-largest tree nut crop in California by bearing acreage.

With rising demand at home and abroad, combined with continued production gains, the U.S. pistachio industry appears well-positioned for continued growth in the years ahead.

Source: USDA