Story perspectives

U.S. Construction Spending Rises Amid Sluggish Market

11/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. construction spending rose 0.8% in August 2025, driven by home renovations, while year-over-year spending dropped 1.6%.
The Commerce Department reported a 0.2% gain in overall construction spending for August 2025, after a revised July.
Single-family spending fell 0.4%, while multifamily rose 0.2% in August 2025.
The report was delayed by a 43-day federal government shutdown.
Elevated mortgage rates and a sluggish labor market may hinder future construction activity.

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Story summary

U.S. construction spending rose 0.8% in August 2025, driven by home renovations, while year-over-year spending dropped 1.6%.
The Commerce Department reported a 0.2% gain in overall construction spending for August 2025, after a revised July.
Single-family spending fell 0.4%, while multifamily rose 0.2% in August 2025.
The report was delayed by a 43-day federal government shutdown.
Elevated mortgage rates and a sluggish labor market may hinder future construction activity.