Monthly, Seasonally Adjusted

SMU72000006054110001SA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

5.20

Year-over-Year Change

0.00%

Date Range

1/1/1990 - 12/1/2013

Summary

This economic trend measures average hourly earnings for production and nonsupervisory employees in the total private sector. It is a key indicator of worker compensation and inflationary pressures in the U.S. 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

The Average Hourly Earnings: Total Private Series tracks changes in the hourly compensation paid to employees in the private sector. It is a widely followed measure of wage growth that provides insight into cost-of-living adjustments, labor market tightness, and the potential for inflation.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of businesses and establishments.

Historical Context

Policymakers at the Federal Reserve closely monitor this metric to inform interest rate and monetary policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Earnings have increased by 5.5% over the past year.
  • The series dates back to 1964.
  • Hourly earnings are a key input for the Employment Cost Index.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the average hourly earnings for production and nonsupervisory employees across the entire private sector in the United States.

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

A: Average hourly earnings are a crucial indicator of wage growth and inflationary pressures in the economy, providing insight into the strength of the labor market and cost-of-living adjustments.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of businesses and establishments across the country.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers at the Federal Reserve closely monitor this metric to inform interest rate and monetary policy decisions, as wage growth is a key driver of inflation.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published monthly with a typical release lag of one to two weeks.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Average Hourly Earnings: Total Private (SMU72000006054110001SA), retrieved from FRED.