Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in City - Size Class C

APUC00072511 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

0.92

Year-over-Year Change

-14.70%

Date Range

1/1/1987 - 12/1/1997

Summary

This economic trend measures the average price of fuel oil #2 per gallon (3.785 liters) in U.S. cities with a population between 50,000 and 250,000 people. It provides valuable insights into the cost of home heating oil, an important input for many households and businesses.

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

The Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in City - Size Class C trend tracks the retail price of this key home heating fuel in mid-sized American cities. It is a critical economic indicator used by policymakers, analysts, and consumers to understand energy costs and their impacts.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of fuel retailers by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Historical Context

This price trend is closely monitored by economists and policymakers to assess the state of energy markets and the broader cost of living.

Key Facts

  • Fuel oil #2 is a common home heating fuel in the northeastern U.S.
  • The price trend is reported monthly by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
  • Fuel oil prices can significantly impact household budgets and business costs.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the average retail price of fuel oil #2 per gallon (3.785 liters) in U.S. cities with populations between 50,000 and 250,000 people.

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

A: Fuel oil #2 prices are a critical indicator of home heating costs, which can significantly impact household budgets and business expenses, especially in the northeastern United States.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of fuel retailers conducted by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts closely monitor this price trend to assess energy market conditions and the broader cost of living, which can inform decisions on energy policy, subsidies, and household assistance programs.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is reported monthly, with a slight delay, and may not capture all regional or local variations in fuel oil #2 prices.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in City - Size Class C (APUC00072511), retrieved from FRED.