Construction costs in some U.S. markets—notably San Francisco, New York City, Seattle and Portland, Ore.—reached up to 6% escalation through 2018 due to tariffs and a stretched labor market

But many say economic and political uncertainties may cause a market downturn in 2020

Public-works sector weakens but nonresidential and multifamily arenas rebound.

Monthly stats reveal gains in public works, power plants, multifamily buildings and health care facilities.