In one aspect, a method for monitoring seed meter operation may include operating a seed meter such that seeds are transported by a seed transport member of the seed meter from a seed acquisition region to a separate location for subsequent discharge from the seed meter. In addition, the method may include receiving an index signal from a sensor located within a portion of the seed meter across which an air pressure differential exists to allow seeds to be transported by the seed transport member and receiving a timing signal associated with an extent to which the seed transport member has been rotated within the seed meter following receipt of the index signal. The method may also include evaluating data from the sensor based on the timing signal to identify at least one of the presence or absence of a seed within the one or more seeds cells of the seed transport member.