Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: Shelter in U.S. City Average

CWUR0000SAH1 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

407.05

Year-over-Year Change

3.84%

Date Range

12/1/1952 - 6/1/2025

Summary

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) Shelter measure tracks changes in the cost of housing for urban consumers in the U.S. This key inflation indicator is closely monitored by policymakers and analysts to assess the overall state of 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

CPI-W Shelter represents the price changes for the housing component of the consumer price index, including rent, owners' equivalent rent, and household-related costs. It is a vital economic indicator used to measure the purchasing power of consumers and guide monetary policy decisions.

Methodology

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics collects data on housing prices and costs through consumer surveys to calculate this seasonally adjusted index.

Historical Context

The CPI-W Shelter index is a core component of the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge and informs their interest rate and monetary policy actions.

Key Facts

  • The CPI-W Shelter index has a base period of 1982-84=100.
  • Housing costs account for about one-third of the overall CPI-W index.
  • The CPI-W Shelter index reached an all-time high of 301.36 in June 2022.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The CPI-W Shelter index measures changes in the cost of housing, including rent, owners' equivalent rent, and other household-related expenses for urban consumers in the United States.

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

A: The CPI-W Shelter index is a key indicator of inflation and cost of living, providing insights into the purchasing power of consumers and informing monetary policy decisions by the Federal Reserve.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics collects data on housing prices and costs through consumer surveys to calculate this seasonally adjusted index.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The CPI-W Shelter index is a core component of the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge, and its movements directly inform the central bank's interest rate and monetary policy actions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The CPI-W Shelter index is published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a typical release lag of around two weeks after the end of the reference month.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Consumer Price Index for All Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers: Shelter in U.S. City Average (CWUR0000SAH1), retrieved from FRED.