Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: New and Used Motor Vehicles in U.S. City Average

CWSR0000SETA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

124.47

Year-over-Year Change

2.00%

Date Range

1/1/1993 - 7/1/2025

Summary

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: New and Used Motor Vehicles in U.S. City Average tracks changes in the prices of new and used automobiles, which are a significant component of consumer spending.

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 index measures the price changes for new and used motor vehicles, a major household expense that is closely monitored by economists and policymakers to assess consumer inflation and overall economic conditions.

Methodology

The data is collected through surveys of retail establishments and calculated using a weighted average.

Historical Context

The motor vehicle price index is a key input for the Federal Reserve and other institutions in evaluating monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • The index uses a base year of 1982-84 = 100.
  • Automobile purchases represent around 4% of total consumer expenditures.
  • The index is published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This index tracks the changes in prices for new and used motor vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, in the U.S. city average.

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

A: The motor vehicle price index is a key indicator of consumer inflation and spending, providing insights into a major household expense that influences overall economic conditions.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through surveys of retail establishments and calculated using a weighted average formula.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The motor vehicle price index is a crucial input for the Federal Reserve and other policymakers in evaluating monetary and fiscal policy decisions that impact consumer prices and economic growth.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The index is published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a typical release lag of about two weeks.

Similar CWSR0000SETA Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: New and Used Motor Vehicles in U.S. City Average (CWSR0000SETA), retrieved from FRED.