Total Public Construction Spending: Residential in the United States

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

Latest Value

12,004.00

Year-over-Year Change

8.38%

Date Range

1/1/2002 - 6/1/2025

Summary

The Total Public Construction Spending: Residential in the United States measures the value of public construction projects related to residential housing. This metric is a key indicator of government investment in the housing sector and overall construction activity.

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 tracks the total value of public construction projects for residential buildings, such as apartment complexes, single-family homes, and other multi-unit dwellings. It provides insight into the level of public sector investment and can signal broader trends in the housing market and construction industry.

Methodology

The data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau through surveys of construction firms and government agencies.

Historical Context

Economists and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the government's role in supporting the housing market and overall construction activity.

Key Facts

  • Public residential construction spending reached a high of $63.4 billion in 2009.
  • Spending declined sharply during the 2008 financial crisis but has gradually recovered since then.
  • The residential component accounts for about 30% of total public construction spending in the United States.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This metric tracks the total value of public construction projects for residential buildings, such as apartment complexes and single-family homes.

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

A: This indicator provides insight into the level of government investment in the housing sector and can signal broader trends in the construction industry.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau through surveys of construction firms and government agencies.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Economists and policymakers monitor this metric to assess the government's role in supporting the housing market and overall construction activity.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published monthly with a lag of about two months.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Public Construction Spending: Residential in the United States (PBRESCONS), retrieved from FRED.