12-Month Moving Average of Unweighted Median Hourly Wage Growth: MSA Area

FRBATLWGT12MMUMHWGMSA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

4.30

Year-over-Year Change

-15.69%

Date Range

12/1/1997 - 7/1/2025

Summary

The 12-Month Moving Average of Unweighted Median Hourly Wage Growth: MSA Area tracks wage growth trends across U.S. metropolitan statistical areas. This measure provides valuable insights for economists and policymakers monitoring labor market conditions.

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

This economic indicator represents the 12-month moving average of the unweighted median hourly wage growth across all metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in the United States. It offers a broad perspective on wage dynamics in the overall labor market.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Historical Context

This trend is used by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to assess the broader labor market and inform economic decision-making.

Key Facts

  • The 12-month moving average reached a peak of 5.3% in December 2022.
  • Wage growth has remained elevated as the labor market has tightened.
  • This indicator provides a more comprehensive view of wage dynamics than single-area measures.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the 12-month moving average of the unweighted median hourly wage growth across all U.S. metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs).

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

A: This trend provides valuable insights into broader labor market conditions and wage dynamics, which are crucial for economists, policymakers, and businesses to monitor.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: This trend is used by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to assess labor market conditions and inform economic decision-making.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published monthly with a relatively short lag, making it a timely indicator of wage growth trends.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, 12-Month Moving Average of Unweighted Median Hourly Wage Growth: MSA Area (FRBATLWGT12MMUMHWGMSA), retrieved from FRED.