Total Public Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States
TLPBLCONS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
514,278.00
Year-over-Year Change
5.19%
Date Range
1/1/1993 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Total Public Construction Spending measure tracks the value of all construction projects initiated by federal, state, and local governments in the United States. It is an important indicator of infrastructure investment and government economic 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 metric represents the total dollar value of public construction projects, including highways, schools, hospitals, and other facilities. It is used by economists and policymakers to assess the scale and trends of government investment in physical infrastructure.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of construction firms and government agencies by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Public construction spending is closely monitored as a gauge of fiscal policy and a driver of broader economic growth.
Key Facts
- Public construction is approximately 65% of total construction activity in the U.S.
- Annual public construction spending averages over $300 billion in recent years.
- Roads and highways account for the largest share of public construction investment.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Total Public Construction Spending metric tracks the total value of construction projects initiated by federal, state, and local governments in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Public construction spending is an important indicator of infrastructure investment and government economic activity, closely monitored by economists and policymakers.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through surveys of construction firms and government agencies by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Public construction spending is used as a gauge of fiscal policy and a driver of broader economic growth, providing insight into government investment in physical infrastructure.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical 1-2 month delay in reporting.
Related Trends
Total Construction Spending: Health Care in the United States
TLHLTHCONS
Total Construction Spending: Sewage and Waste Disposal in the United States
TLSWDCONS
Total Private Construction Spending: Amusement and Recreation in the United States
PRAMUSCONS
Total Construction Spending: Public Safety in the United States
TLPSCONS
Total Construction Spending: Educational in the United States
TLEDUCONS
Total Construction Spending: Highway and Street in the United States
TLHWYCONS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Public Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States (TLPBLCONS), retrieved from FRED.