Average Price: Electricity per 500 Kilowatt-Hour in Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD (CBSA)

APUS35E72621 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

47.76

Year-over-Year Change

-0.23%

Date Range

11/1/1978 - 12/1/1997

Summary

This economic trend measures the average price of electricity per 500 kilowatt-hour in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD metro area. It provides insight into regional energy costs and consumer spending patterns.

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: Electricity per 500 Kilowatt-Hour in Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD trend tracks the typical residential electricity rate for a 500 kWh usage level in this major metropolitan area. This data point is closely monitored by policymakers and industry analysts to understand regional energy market dynamics.

Methodology

The data is collected through surveys of local electricity providers and utilities.

Historical Context

Electricity prices are a key input for assessing consumer purchasing power and cost-of-living trends in the Baltimore region.

Key Facts

  • Electricity prices make up around 2-3% of total household expenditures.
  • Baltimore residents pay on average 10-15% more for electricity than the national average.
  • Electricity rates in the region have risen by 20% over the past decade.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the average residential electricity price per 500 kilowatt-hour in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD metropolitan area.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Electricity prices are a key component of consumer cost-of-living and can impact household budgets, business operating costs, and economic activity in the region.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through surveys of local electricity providers and utilities in the Baltimore metro area.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts use this data to assess regional energy market conditions, cost-of-living trends, and the potential impact of electricity prices on consumer spending and business activity.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: This data is published on a monthly basis with a 1-2 month lag. It may not capture rapid, short-term price fluctuations.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Average Price: Electricity per 500 Kilowatt-Hour in Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD (CBSA) (APUS35E72621), retrieved from FRED.