Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas - 40 Therms in U.S. City Average
APU000072601 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
49.78
Year-over-Year Change
10.48%
Date Range
11/1/1978 - 6/1/2013
Summary
The 'Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas - 40 Therms in U.S. City Average' measures the average retail price of 40 therms of piped natural gas for residential consumers across the United States. This metric is a key indicator of household energy costs and helps policymakers and analysts understand trends in domestic energy markets.
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 represents the average price paid by U.S. residential consumers for a standard 40-therm purchase of piped natural gas utility service. It is a widely tracked indicator of household energy expenditures and helps economists assess the cost-of-living and inflationary pressures facing American families.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of utility companies and natural gas retailers by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Historical Context
Policymakers and market analysts use this series to gauge consumer demand, gauge the impact of energy policies, and forecast household budgets.
Key Facts
- The average price for 40 therms of piped gas was $57.16 in 2022.
- Prices have risen over 50% since 2020 due to global supply chain disruptions.
- Household natural gas expenditures account for about 2.5% of total consumer spending.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This series measures the average retail price that U.S. residential consumers pay for 40 therms of piped natural gas utility service.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric is a key indicator of household energy costs and helps policymakers and analysts understand trends in domestic energy markets and their impact on consumer budgets.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through surveys of utility companies and natural gas retailers by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and market analysts use this series to gauge consumer demand, assess the impact of energy policies, and forecast household budgets and inflationary pressures.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly with a typical 1-2 month lag. There may be limitations in capturing rapid price changes or regional variations in residential natural gas markets.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Average Price: Utility (Piped) Gas - 40 Therms in U.S. City Average (APU000072601), retrieved from FRED.