06 January 2025
Are Construction Costs Finally Stabilizing in 2024
The construction industry, long plagued by volatile costs and unpredictable market conditions, appears to be entering a phase of relative stability in 2024. According to Rider Levett Bucknall's (RLB) latest quarterly report, construction costs in the United States have shown a moderate increase of 1.12% over the previous quarter, marking a year-over-year rise of 5.41%. This is a slight improvement from the 5.85% year-over-year increase observed in the first quarter. While some regions continue to experience above-average cost increases, others are seeing gains below the national average, indicating a nuanced and varied landscape. With high interest rates and forecasted labor cost increases for the remainder of the year, industry experts are cautiously optimistic about the potential for a more predictable cost environment. This report delves into the current state of construction costs, regional trends, labor and material challenges, and future market projections to provide a comprehensive overview of the factors influencing construction economics today.