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Housing Economics

NAHB provides in-depth economic analysis of the most significant issues and latest trends driving the housing industry.

Lumber Prices Rising Faster Than Other Material Costs

Lumber Testimonials
Lumber prices experienced relatively little growth for most of 2024, but are now 11.7% higher compared to one year ago. February 2025 marked the fourth straight month where year-to-year price growth was above 10% for softwood lumber.
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Macro Economic Outlook Analysis from NAHB economists on the current and future state of the economy, and key factors impacting the housing industry.

Data at a Glance

Framing Lumber Prices

Fluctuations in the costs of building materials, particularly those of framing lumber, contribute significantly to home prices and housing affordability levels.

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Estimating Tools

Housing Economics PLUS

Get exclusive access to in-depth analysis of market trends and industry forecasts.

Services and Resources

Services and Resources

NAHB economists offers publications, presentations and other services.

Housing Indices

Indices

Exclusive NAHB surveys provide insights from several sectors throughout the industry.

Housing Economics Statistics

National Statistics

The latest on starts and permits, home sales, lumber prices, mortgage rates and more.

State and Local Data

State and Local Data

Regional reporting of building permits, home sales, employment and workforce demand.

NAHB Special Studies

Special Studies

Detailed research on a wide variety of topics related to the U.S. housing market.

Material Costs

Housing’s Economic Impact

See national and regional estimates of the jobs, income and taxes generated from housing.

Housing Forecasts

Forecasts

Exclusive insights on the future of the housing industry are available to subscribers of Housing Economics Plus.

NAHB Economics Team

NAHB Economics Group

The in-depth analysis of housing market conditions, demographics and policy is provided by an esteemed group of economists at NAHB.