Unit Labor Costs: Early Estimate of Quarterly Unit Labor Costs (ULC) Indicators: Unit Labor Costs: Total for Australia
Growth rate previous period, Seasonally Adjusted
ULQEUL01AUQ657S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.24
Year-over-Year Change
17.45%
Date Range
10/1/1976 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The Growth Rate Previous Period, Seasonally Adjusted metric measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in the U.S. unit labor costs, a key indicator of inflationary pressures in the economy.
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
Unit labor costs represent the cost of labor per unit of output, and changes in this metric can provide insights into productivity, wage growth, and potential inflation trends. This seasonally adjusted series helps analysts and policymakers identify underlying economic shifts.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics using establishment survey information.
Historical Context
Policymakers at the Federal Reserve monitor unit labor cost trends to help guide monetary policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Unit labor costs rose 3.6% in Q4 2022 compared to the previous quarter.
- Faster growth in unit labor costs can signal rising inflationary pressures.
- The U.S. has experienced high unit labor cost growth since the COVID-19 pandemic.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Growth Rate Previous Period, Seasonally Adjusted metric measures the quarter-over-quarter percent change in U.S. unit labor costs, which represent the cost of labor per unit of output.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Changes in unit labor costs provide insights into productivity, wage growth, and potential inflationary pressures, making this a key indicator monitored by policymakers and economists.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics using establishment survey information.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The Federal Reserve closely tracks unit labor cost trends to help guide monetary policy decisions aimed at maintaining stable prices and maximum employment.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released quarterly with a lag, and may be subject to revisions as more complete information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth rate previous period, Seasonally Adjusted (ULQEUL01AUQ657S), retrieved from FRED.