Land ownership in the United States has long been a marker of wealth, power, and influence. While some families have controlled vast properties for generations, others have amassed land through business ventures, investments, and strategic acquisitions. From cattle ranching to timber production and conservation efforts, these landowners shape industries and economies across the country. Here’s a look at America’s biggest landowners, how they built their holdings, and what they do with their vast tracts of land.
Famous Faces in The Top 100
Some of the most famous landowners in the Top 100 list include Jeff Bezos with 420,000 acres, Bill Gates with 275,000 acres, and Taylor Sheridan with 265,000 acres, but surprisingly they’re not even in the top 10. You can find the full list of landowners on The Land Report website. The following is a list of the top 15 landowners in the United States, showing the biggest landowners in the country.
15. O’Connor Heirs – 587,000 Acres
The O’Connor family’s land legacy dates back to Thomas O’Connor, an Irish immigrant who built a ranching empire in Texas. When he passed in 1887, he owned the largest individually held estate in Texas, both in land and cattle. Today, his heirs still control 587,000 acres in the Texas Coastal Plain, making them one of the largest ranching families in the country. Their land continues to serve as a crucial hub for cattle ranching and agricultural operations. Over time, they have also diversified into conservation efforts to preserve their vast acreage.
14. Ford Family – 600,000 Acres
Kenneth Ford began his timber empire in 1936 with a single sawmill in Oregon, and over the decades, his company grew into a forestry powerhouse. Today, his descendants own 600,000 acres across Western Oregon and Northern California, making them one of the largest private landowners in the U.S. Their land is managed sustainably for timber production, ensuring long-term profitability without depleting natural resources. The family has also invested in forest conservation programs, balancing business with environmental responsibility.
13. Lykes Heirs – 615,000 Acres
Dr. Howell Tyson Lykes gave up medicine to start a ranching business, a decision that would lead to his family controlling 615,000 acres across Florida and Texas. The Lykes Brothers Company, founded in 1904, remains one of the largest privately held agribusinesses in the country. Their land supports citrus farming, sugar cane cultivation, cattle operations, and even commercial hunting leases. The family has also expanded into timber production and water management initiatives.
12. Wilks Brothers – 675,000 Acres
Dan and Farris Wilks made their fortune in hydraulic fracturing, selling their company, Frac Tech, for billions. With their wealth, they have acquired 675,000 acres of land across multiple states, primarily in Texas, Montana, and Idaho. Their land is used for cattle ranching, hunting, and conservation efforts aimed at restoring native ecosystems. Some of their acquisitions have been controversial, with critics questioning their influence over local economies and land use policies.
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11. Briscoe Family – 686,000 Acres
The Briscoe family’s land empire began with Dolph Briscoe Sr., who entered the cattle business in Texas during the early 20th century. His son, Dolph Briscoe Jr., expanded the family’s holdings, growing their operations to 686,000 acres. Today, their land supports one of the largest cattle ranching enterprises in Texas, with over 15,000 head of cattle. The family has also preserved large portions of their land for wildlife conservation and ecological research.
10. Pingree Heirs – 830,000 Acres
The Pingree family’s land holdings date back to the early 1800s, when Massachusetts merchant David Pingree began acquiring land. Today, the family controls 830,000 acres in Maine, managed through the Seven Islands Land Company. Their land is primarily used for sustainable forestry, with birch, oak, and maple trees harvested for flooring and other wood products. The family is also actively involved in conservation programs and wildlife habitat restoration.
9. King Ranch Heirs – 911,000 Acres
King Ranch, founded in 1853 by Richard King, remains the largest ranch in the United States, covering 911,000 acres in Texas. The ranch is still run by King’s heirs, who oversee large-scale cattle operations, farming, and hunting leases. Oil and gas drilling also play a significant role in the ranch’s revenue. The property is home to vast wildlife preserves and is known for its innovative cattle breeding programs.
8. Singleton Family – 1.1 Million Acres
Dr. Henry Singleton, a successful businessman, began acquiring land in New Mexico and California in 1986, eventually amassing 1.1 million acres. His land is used primarily for high-quality cattle breeding and conservation efforts. Today, his children oversee the family’s holdings, ranking among the top five U.S. cattle ranching operations. The family has also made investments in land-based renewable energy projects.
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7. Brad Kelley – 1.14 Million Acres
Brad Kelley, who made his fortune selling discount cigarettes, turned to land investment after selling his company for $1 billion. He now owns 1.14 million acres across several states, with a strong emphasis on conservation. His holdings include Calumet Farm, a famous horse breeding operation in Kentucky. Kelley is also dedicated to preserving natural habitats, using his land for wildlife conservation rather than commercial development.
6. Peter Buck – 1.236 Million Acres
Dr. Peter Buck, co-founder of the Subway sandwich chain, built his wealth in the fast-food industry but also accumulated vast landholdings. By 2019, his estate surpassed the 1 million acre mark, making him one of America’s largest private landowners. His properties are primarily used for timber, conservation, and agriculture. Since his passing in 2021, his sons may have taken control of the estate, continuing its management.
5. Irving Family – 1.268 Million Acres
The Irving family, one of Canada’s wealthiest families, owns 1.268 million acres in the U.S. Their land primarily consists of forested areas used for timber production. The family has committed large portions of their holdings to conservation efforts, including wetland and wildlife preservation. Their responsible forestry practices ensure long-term sustainability of their vast timber resources.
4. Stan Kroenke – 1.627 Million Acres
Stan Kroenke, billionaire owner of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, is one of America’s largest landowners with 1.627 million acres. In 2016, he added 1.38 million acres to his portfolio by purchasing the W.T. Waggoner Ranch in Texas. His properties include cattle ranches, recreational lands, and real estate developments. Kroenke also owns land in Canada, further expanding his influence in the ranching industry.
3. Ted Turner – 2 Million Acres
Media mogul Ted Turner owns 2 million acres across the United States, much of which is dedicated to bison ranching. His ranches are home to more than 51,000 bison, supplying meat for his restaurant chain, Ted’s Montana Grill. Turner is also a major advocate for environmental conservation, using his land for wildlife preservation and sustainable ranching.
2. John Malone – 2.2 Million Acres
John Malone, a billionaire media investor, owns 2.2 million acres of land across the U.S. His holdings include large tracts of timberland and ranches in states like Maine, Wyoming, and Colorado. Malone’s investments focus on sustainable forestry and conservation projects. His passion for land stewardship has made him a leading figure in private land ownership.
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1. Emmerson Family – 2.33 Million Acres
The Emmerson family tops the list with an incredible 2.33 million acres, making them the largest private landowners in the U.S. Their wealth comes from Sierra Pacific Industries, one of the largest lumber companies in the country. Their focus on sustainable timber harvesting ensures long-term economic and environmental benefits. The family’s forestry operations provide materials for construction, paper, and renewable energy projects.
Final Thoughts: The Impact of Large-Scale Land Ownership
Owning millions of acres isn’t just about space—it’s about influence, industry, and conservation. These landowners shape America’s economy, agriculture, and natural landscapes, balancing business ventures with environmental stewardship. Whether inherited or acquired through strategic investments, their land holdings represent power and long-term vision. As industries evolve, these vast properties will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future.
For a full list of the Top 100 Land Owner Check Out The Land Report.