Construction Economics

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Construction job openings declined again in October as hiring slowed and worker churn fell, signaling a cooler labor market even as contractors remain cautiously optimistic about early-2026 staffing.

ENR’s 20-city average cost indexes, wages and materials prices. Historical data and details for ENR’s 20 cities can be found at ENR.com/economics

ENR’s 20-city average cost indexes, wages and materials prices. Historical data and details for ENR’s 20 cities can be found at ENR.com/economics

Commercial construction appears strong at year’s end, but new data and field reporting reveal a more complicated picture beneath the surface. What’s really driving the market now? 

Contractors face rising materials costs and shifting market signals as new ABC data point to softening backlog and confidence heading into 2026.

ENR’s 20-city average cost indexes, wages and materials prices. Historical data and details for ENR’s 20 cities can be found at ENR.com/economics

What’s driving the downturn as agencies and contractors head into year’s end?

Data center work continue to steady the market even as other segments show signs of easing, ABC’s latest data indicates.

ENR’s 20-city average cost indexes, wages and materials prices. Historical data and details for ENR’s 20 cities can be found at ENR.com/economics

The federal government shutdown may be nearing an end after 41 days, but USDOT, EPA, and the Corps face weeks of delays as agencies reopen under tight funding limits by Jan. 30.