Economy
AIA Architectural Billings Index Rises Again in September
Written by Brett Linton
October 21, 2021
Demand for design services from architecture firms in the U.S. improved for the eighth consecutive month, according to the latest report from The American Institute of Architects (AIA). AIA’s Architecture Billings Index rose from 55.6 in August to 56.6 in September. The ABI has expanded each month since January.
The index for new project inquiries fell by 2.9 points to 61.8, while the new design contracts index slipped 1.9 points to 54.7.
“The ABI scores over the last eight months continue to be among the highest ever seen in the immediate post-recession periods that have been captured throughout the index’s history, underscoring just how strong the bounce back has been this year following the abrupt downturn in 2020. Firms continue to report plenty of work in the pipeline as well, with inquiries into new projects and the value of new design contracts remaining strong,” reported AIA.
The Architecture Billings Index is an advance economic indicator for nonresidential construction activity, with a lead time of approximately 9-12 months. A score above 50 indicates an increase in activity, and a score below 50 a decrease.
Key ABI highlights for September include:
- Regional averages: Midwest (57.7); South (57.0); West (56.0); Northeast (51.5)
- Sector index breakdown: mixed practice (58.8); commercial/industrial (58.1); multifamily residential (56.1); institutional (53.5)
Regional and sector scores are calculated as three-month averages.
Below is a graph showing the history of the AIA Architecture Billings Index. You will need to view the graph on our website to use its interactive features; you can do so by clicking here. If you need assistance logging into or navigating the website, please contact us at info@SteelMarketUpdate.com.
Brett Linton
Read more from Brett LintonLatest in Economy
January energy market update
In this Premium analysis we cover North American oil and natural gas prices, drilling rig activity, and crude oil stock levels. Trends in energy prices and active rig counts are leading demand indicators for oil country tubular goods (OCTG), line pipe and other steel products.
New York state manufacturing fell in January
“Price increases, while subdued, picked up,” Richard Deitz, Economic Research Advisor at the New York Fed. “Firms grew more optimistic that conditions would improve in the months ahead.”
Beige Book shows mixed economic trends, manufacturing challenges, tariff concerns
Economic activity across the US experienced slight to moderate growth at the end of 2024, while manufacturing activity showed a slight decline
Contractors concerned about tariffs, immigration in 2025: AGC survey
AGC said Trump should be “sparing” in imposing new tariffs and exclude products needed for domestic manufacturing, energy and infrastructure.
Dodge Momentum rebounds in December
Improved growth in data center planning and warehousing projects helped the Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) rebound in December.