Generally yes, land held for investment can qualify, with the disclaimer that we're not tax professionals and you should confirm with one before acting. A 1031 exchange requires like-kind property, and for real estate that standard is broad: it generally covers property held for investment, trade, or business use. Selling an investment property and buying vacant land you'll hold as an investment, whether you're waiting on appreciation or intending to develop it, can qualify much like swapping into a rental that produces income. The wrinkle is intent and use. Like-kind for real property turns on how the property is held rather than whether one parcel has a building and the other is dirt. Land genuinely held for investment is usually eligible; land held for personal use, or for quick resale as a dealer, generally isn't. The mechanics matter too: 1031 exchanges run on strict timelines and require a qualified intermediary, and one missed step can blow the entire tax deferral. Eligibility turns on facts specific to your situation, and the rules change. Treat this as a starting point, and confirm the current requirements with a qualified tax professional or 1031 intermediary before you list or buy anything.