Consumer Price Index: Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels (COICOP 04): Actual Rentals for Housing: Total for United States

USACP040100IXNBM • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

151.13

Year-over-Year Change

6.47%

Date Range

12/1/2009 - 12/1/2023

Summary

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels (COICOP 04) measures the change in prices paid by consumers for this essential basket of goods and services in the United States. This trend is a key indicator of inflationary pressures in the housing and utility sectors.

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 Actual Rentals for Housing: Total CPI measures the change in rents paid by consumers, including both contract and imputed rents. This index is a vital component of the overall CPI and provides insight into the cost of living and housing affordability in the U.S.

Methodology

The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects data on rents paid by a representative sample of housing units and calculates the index based on these observations.

Historical Context

Policymakers and economists closely monitor this housing and utilities CPI trend to understand broader inflationary dynamics and make informed decisions.

Key Facts

  • The Actual Rentals for Housing: Total CPI accounts for over 30% of the overall CPI basket.
  • Rents have risen over 5% annually in recent years, contributing to high inflation.
  • Housing and utilities costs make up nearly 43% of the average American household's budget.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Actual Rentals for Housing: Total CPI measures the change in rents paid by consumers in the United States, including both contract and imputed rents.

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

A: This housing and utilities CPI trend is a critical indicator of inflationary pressures and cost of living, providing important insights for policymakers, economists, and consumers.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects data on rents paid by a representative sample of housing units and calculates the index based on these observations.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and central banks closely monitor this CPI component to understand broader inflationary dynamics and make informed monetary and fiscal policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Actual Rentals for Housing: Total CPI is published monthly with a lag of about two weeks, providing timely data on housing costs.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Consumer Price Index: Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels (COICOP 04): Actual Rentals for Housing: Total for United States (USACP040100IXNBM), retrieved from FRED.