Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted

MABMM302CZQ189S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

3,119,125,309,691.00

Year-over-Year Change

14.02%

Date Range

1/1/2002 - 10/1/2013

Summary

This series measures quarterly, seasonally adjusted housing starts in the United States. It is a key indicator of residential construction activity and economic growth.

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

Housing starts track the number of new residential construction projects that have begun during a given period. This metric is closely watched by economists and policymakers as a barometer of the housing market and broader economic conditions.

Methodology

The data is collected through surveys of homebuilders and construction firms by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Historical Context

Housing starts are a leading economic indicator used to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Housing starts peaked at 2.27 million units in January 2006.
  • Starts fell to a low of 478,000 units during the Great Recession in April 2009.
  • As of the latest data, housing starts are 1.58 million units per year.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This series measures the number of new residential construction projects that began during a given quarter, on a seasonally adjusted basis.

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

A: Housing starts are a leading indicator of economic activity, providing insight into the health of the housing market and broader economy.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through surveys of homebuilders and construction firms by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Housing starts are closely monitored by economists and policymakers to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released monthly with a lag of approximately one month.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly, Seasonally Adjusted (MABMM302CZQ189S), retrieved from FRED.