Nonresidential Construction Index
The fourth quarter 2025 Nonresidential Construction Index (NRCI) fell to 47.9 from 49.8 in the third quarter. Sentiment dropped overall and for the economy where respondents do business. Outlook improved for respondents' engineering and construction businesses, backlogs and cost of materials, while concerns continue around rising input costs and productivity.
This index, typically found in the North American Engineering and Construction Outlook report, is being published as soon as it’s available. The full report will be released in the coming weeks. Our survey participants enable us to provide vital insights into current trends and market conditions. If you’re interested in contributing, we encourage you to fill out the NRCI sign up form.
The above table and accompanying arrows illustrate how individual components contribute to the overall index score compared to the prior quarter. For most components, scores above 50 signal healthy or expansionary market conditions quarter over quarter. Cost of materials and cost of labor are exceptions whereas lower values in these components indicate expectations for rising prices and serve as a counterbalance.