Total Construction Spending: Residential in the United States

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

Latest Value

895,093.00

Year-over-Year Change

-6.03%

Date Range

1/1/2002 - 6/1/2025

Summary

Total Construction Spending: Residential measures the total value of construction projects for private residential buildings in the United States. It is a key indicator of economic activity and housing market trends.

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 series tracks the total dollar value of residential construction projects, including new single-family homes, multifamily structures, and improvements to existing homes. It is a vital metric for assessing the health of the housing sector and broader economy.

Methodology

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

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts closely monitor residential construction spending to gauge consumer demand, builder confidence, and the direction of the real estate market.

Key Facts

  • Residential construction accounts for over 3% of U.S. GDP.
  • New home sales are a leading indicator of broader economic health.
  • Mortgage rates and lending standards significantly impact residential investment.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: Total Construction Spending: Residential measures the total value of private residential construction projects in the United States, including new single-family homes, multifamily structures, and home improvements.

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

A: Residential construction spending is a crucial indicator of housing market conditions, consumer demand, and broader economic activity. It is closely watched by policymakers, economists, and investors to assess the strength of the real estate sector.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

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

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Residential construction spending is a key input for policymakers at the Federal Reserve and other institutions when evaluating the health of the housing market and broader economy. It informs decisions on monetary policy, housing finance, and other economic interventions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Total Construction Spending: Residential data is reported monthly with a lag of approximately two months. There may also be revisions to previously reported figures as more complete information becomes available.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Construction Spending: Residential in the United States (TLRESCONS), retrieved from FRED.