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1st Int. Transborder Conf. of the Timor Island: Timor %u2013 Science without borderDili, 7-8 May 202587Assessing the Role of Maize in Farmers' Household Economy: A Socioeconomic Perspective of East Nusa TenggaraPriscila V. Jelita, Doppy R. Nendissa*and Aplonia BaniFaculty of Agriculture, Universitas Nusa Cendana,Jl. Adisucipto, Kupang, NTT 85001, Indonesia*Corresponding author: roynendissa@staf.undana.ac.idAbstractMaize plays a significant role as a source of food and income for farmers in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Indonesia. However, it has yet to become the main economic pillar for rural households. This study aims to analyze the influence of socioeconomic factors on maize farming income and assess its contribution to household income in Pukdale Village, East Kupang District, Kupang Regency. While maize is a key agricultural commodity in the region, it has not provided optimal economic impact for farming families. This research applies a quantitative approach using surveys and multiple linear regression analysis. The sample consisted of 60 maize farmers randomly selected from a total population of 400. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and direct interviews. The findings show that out of six socioeconomic variables examined, four significantly affect maize farming income: land size, farming experience, labor input, and fertilizer prices. Land size, experience, and labor input had positive effects, whereas fertilizer prices negatively affected income. Variables such as age and non-formal education were not statistically significant. The contribution of maize farming to total household income was 33.45%, indicating that maize serves more as asupplementary income source rather than a primary one. These findings highlight the need for targeted policy interventions, including technical training, improved access to production inputs, and institutional capacity-building for farmers. The study provides an empirical foundation for sustainable agricultural development and improving the welfare of maize farmers in underdeveloped regions such as NTT.Keywords: maize; income; social; economic; household.