San Joaquin County Leads Nation in Walnut Production

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San Joaquin County is the top walnut-producing county in the United States, surpassing even the state's almond-dominant regions. While almonds may get more attention for their vibrant spring blooms, walnuts are a major agricultural commodity in the region, with over 71,900 acres under cultivation and a $240 million crop value in 2024.

Why it matters

The dominance of walnuts in San Joaquin County highlights the diversity and strength of the region's agricultural economy, which is often overshadowed by the state's almond industry. Walnuts provide an important economic driver and represent a unique local product that has found success on a national scale.

The details

San Joaquin County produced 111,000 tons of walnuts in 2024, just 900 tons less than its almond crop. Walnuts are grown on 71,900 acres, compared to 111,900 acres of almonds in the county. While almonds tend to get more attention for their showy spring blooms, walnuts are a more prevalent crop in the Escalon, Manteca, and Ripon areas, often intermixed with almond orchards. Walnuts also dominate in the Linden region, where cherry orchards are also common.

• In 2024, San Joaquin County produced 111,000 tons of walnuts, the most of any county in the United States.
• Walnuts are typically harvested in mid-April to early May, later than the almond bloom that signals the arrival of spring.

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