Host a cell tower — $12,000 to $30,000 per year, tiny footprint.
Tower companies (American Tower, Crown Castle, Vertical Bridge, SBA, Tillman) pay ground rent for a ~0.1-acre site. Coverage gaps along highways and at the edges of metros are the prime opportunity. Once built, you still use the rest of your land for anything else.
How it works
- 1Coverage gap identification
Carriers + tower companies use coverage-gap maps to find new tower sites. Sites near highways and in growing metros are most prized.
- 2Site option agreement
A 1-3 year option agreement (small annual payment) while the tower company secures zoning + carrier commitments.
- 3Lease execution
On option exercise, a 25-40 year ground lease begins. Tower company builds and owns the tower; you collect monthly rent.
- 4Sub-tenant escalators
If additional carriers co-locate on the tower, your rent typically increases. Confirm sub-tenant revenue sharing in your lease.
Deal structures
Most common. Flat or escalating annual rent for a ~0.1-acre tower site.
Tower aggregators may offer a lump-sum buyout for your future rent stream. Usually 10-15× annual rent.
Some independents (Vertical Bridge, Tillman) prefer to own; will buy your site outright for new builds.
Frequently asked
$12,000-$30,000 per year per tower is the typical US range. Highest in coverage-gap areas along interstates near growing metros.
About 0.1 acre — roughly a 100x100 ft fenced compound. Your remaining acreage stays useable.
Usually no — the lease typically grants the tower company exclusive site rights, including the ability to sub-lease to multiple carriers. Negotiate sub-rent share if possible.
The tower company. You only provide the ground and access easement.
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