Unit Labor Costs: Early Estimate of Quarterly Unit Labor Costs (ULC) Indicators: Unit Labor Costs: Total for Sweden

Growth rate same period previous year, Seasonally Adjusted

ULQEUL01SEQ659S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

1.65

Year-over-Year Change

-34.27%

Date Range

1/1/1994 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic indicator measures the year-over-year growth rate of the U.S. unit labor cost, which is an important measure of inflationary pressures and labor productivity.

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

Unit labor cost is the ratio of labor compensation to real output, providing insight into how efficiently a business can convert labor input into real output. Policymakers and economists closely monitor this metric to assess inflationary risks and overall economic health.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics based on surveys of businesses and establishments.

Historical Context

Unit labor cost growth is a key input for the Federal Reserve's monetary policy decisions.

Key Facts

  • Unit labor cost growth reflects changes in both worker compensation and output per hour.
  • Sustained high unit labor cost growth can signal inflationary pressures in the economy.
  • Slower unit labor cost growth often indicates improved labor productivity and profitability.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This indicator measures the year-over-year growth rate of unit labor cost, which is the ratio of labor compensation to real output produced.

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

A: Unit labor cost growth is an important signal of inflationary pressures and labor productivity, making it a key input for policymakers and economists.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics based on surveys of businesses and establishments.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: The Federal Reserve closely monitors unit labor cost growth as a gauge of inflationary risks when making monetary policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released quarterly with a delay of several weeks following the end of the reference period.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth rate same period previous year, Seasonally Adjusted (ULQEUL01SEQ659S), retrieved from FRED.