Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas per Therm in the West Census Region - Urban
APU040072620 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.97
Year-over-Year Change
9.99%
Date Range
11/1/1978 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the average price of utility (piped) gas per therm in the West Census Region for urban areas. It is an important indicator of energy costs and consumer spending patterns in the western United States.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas per Therm in the West Census Region - Urban trend provides insights into the pricing of a key household energy source across the western United States. This metric is widely used by policymakers, economists, and energy analysts to understand regional variations in consumer energy expenditures and the broader inflationary environment.
Methodology
The data is collected through a monthly survey of utility companies by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Historical Context
Trends in utility gas prices are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other agencies to assess the impact on household budgets and overall inflation.
Key Facts
- The West Census Region includes 13 states, from Montana to California.
- Utility gas is the primary heating source for over 50% of homes in the West.
- Gas prices in the West tend to be higher than the national average.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the average retail price of utility (piped) natural gas per therm in the West Census Region for urban areas.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Utility gas prices are a key component of household energy expenditures and a leading indicator of regional inflationary pressures. This metric is widely used by policymakers, economists, and consumers to understand cost-of-living trends in the western United States.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through a monthly survey of utility companies by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Trends in utility gas prices are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other agencies to assess the impact on household budgets and overall inflation, which informs monetary policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released with a 1-month lag by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There may be regional variations in pricing and coverage that are not fully captured by this urban-focused metric.
Similar APU Trends
Global price of Industrial Materials index
PINDUINDEXM
Average Price: Gasoline, Unleaded Midgrade (Cost per Gallon/3.785 Liters) in Pittsburgh, PA (CBSA)
APUA10474715
Average Price: Gasoline, All Types (Cost per Gallon/3.785 Liters) in San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA (CBSA)
APUS49B7471A
Average Price: Electricity per 500 Kilowatt-Hour in Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA (CBSA)
APUS35C72621
Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas per Therm in U.S. City Average
APU000072620
U.S. Natural Gas Liquid Composite Price
MNGLCP
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas per Therm in the West Census Region - Urban (APU040072620), retrieved from FRED.