Economy articles
How much foreign aid does the US provide overall?
About $82.3 billion in aid was obligated for fiscal year (FY) 2024, the most recent fully-reported year. Another $19.4 billion has been reported for FY 2025.
What is the labor force participation rate in the US?
It was 62.4% in December 2025. The labor force participation rate measures the percent of people ages 16 and older engaged in the labor market, including those who are working or who are unemployed but actively looking for a job.
How many vacant homes are there in the US?
There are many ways to assess the trajectory of the American housing market. Two key indicators are the total number of vacant homes and the vacancy rate. According to the Census Bureau, there were approximately 15.1 million vacant homes nationwide in 2024. These unused homes, which include rentals, represent 10.3% of the country’s housing inventory. The number of vacant homes peaked at nearly 19 million in the wake of the 2008 housing crisis, but homeownership has since recovered and the number of vacant homes dropped more than 20% between 2009 and 2024.
Are wages keeping up with inflation?
Yes. From December 2024 to December 2025, wages grew 1.1 percentage points faster than inflation. Nominal wages — the literal dollars earned regardless of cost of living — increased by 3.8% while inflation stood at 2.7%. When wage growth outpaces inflation, it indicates that workers are experiencing an increase in purchasing power from the previous year.
How many civilian jobs are in the US federal government?
About 2.74 million, as of December 2025. Federal jobs include all jobs ranging from janitors to air traffic controllers to nurses to postal workers and more. (Enlisted service people are considered government employees but aren’t included in this figure because they’re not civilians.) Out of the 159.5 million nonfarm jobs in the US, 1.7% are in the federal government, the nation’s largest employer. Another way to look at it: The federal government is responsible for one in every 60 jobs.
What are the biggest drivers of inflation in the past year?
From December 2024 to December 2025, mostly housing. During that time frame, housing price increases accounted for three-fifths of the overall inflation rate. The inflation rate is calculated using the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks the price changes of a consistent basket of goods and services over time. As of December 2025, overall prices increased 2.7% over the previous year. Each item in this basket is given a weight that reflects how much the average urban household spends on it. Items with higher weights, like shelter, tend to have a larger impact on the overall inflation rate than other categories. By examining the price changes across different categories, we can better understand the factors contributing to the current inflation rate.
What is the current inflation rate in the US?
2.7%, as of December 2025. Inflation refers to the rise in prices of goods and services over time, which reduces the purchasing power of the dollar. The inflation rate is the percentage that describes how quickly these prices are rising. While several government datasets track price changes, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) represents about 90% of the US population. The CPI measures inflation by tracking the price fluctuations of a “basket of goods and services” over time, providing a clear picture of how inflation affects everyday living expenses.
What does the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) do?
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for managing the civil service of the federal government. Its functions include coordinating the recruitment of new government employees, managing health insurance and retirement benefits programs, and providing resources for job seekers. Established in 1979, it serves as the chief human resources agency and personnel policy manager for the federal government.
What does the Department of Transportation (DOT) do?
The Department of Transportation (USDOT, DOT) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for overseeing national transportation systems and infrastructure. Its functions include developing and implementing federal transportation policies; ensuring the safety and efficiency of highways, railroads, air travel, and maritime transport; and administering funding for transportation projects including local transit systems. It was established in 1966.
What does the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) do?
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce responsible for providing important economic statistics including the gross domestic product (GDP) of the United States. The agency collects and analyzes data on economic performance, trade, and industry, which helps inform public policy and business decisions. It was established in 1972.
What does the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) do?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Transportation responsible for regulating and overseeing all aspects of civil aviation in the United States. The agency's primary mission is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system. It sets and enforces regulations for aircraft manufacturing and operation, certifies airmen and airports, and manages air traffic control. The FAA also conducts research to improve aviation safety and efficiency, and collaborates with international aviation authorities. It was established in 1958, originally called the Federal Aviation Agency.
What does the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) do?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. The agency collects, analyzes, and disseminates essential economic information to support public and private decision-making. It also conducts research and provides data on employment, unemployment, inflation, productivity, and other economic indicators. It was established in 1884.
What does the International Trade Administration (ITA) do?
The International Trade Administration (ITA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce responsible for promoting international trade, strengthening the competitiveness of US industry, and ensuring fair trade through rigorous enforcement of trade laws and agreements. The ITA provides data, tools, and resources to help American businesses navigate the complexities of international markets, advocates for US commercial interests abroad, and works to remove trade barriers. It was established in 1980.
What does the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) do?
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for overseeing the construction, maintenance, and preservation of the nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. The agency provides financial and technical assistance to state and local governments to ensure the safety and efficiency of the national highway system. It also develops policies and guidelines to promote innovation and sustainability in transportation infrastructure. It was established in 1966.
What does the United States Mint (USMINT) do?
The United States Mint (US Mint) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for producing coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce. The agency designs and manufactures domestic, bullion, and foreign coins, as well as Congressional Gold Medals and silver, gold, and platinum bullion coins. It also maintains physical custody and protection of the nation's gold and silver assets. It was established in 1792.
What does the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) do?
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for providing financial and technical assistance to local public transit systems. The agency oversees safety measures, helps develop new transit technologies, and ensures that transit systems are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. It was established in 1964.
What does the Department of Commerce (DOC) do?
The Department of Commerce (DOC) is an executive branch agency responsible for supporting economic growth within the US. Its functions include promoting job creation, sustainable business development, and ensuring economic competitiveness. It was established in 1903.
What does the Small Business Administration (SBA) do?
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is an independent executive agency responsible for supporting small business owners and entrepreneurs in their business ventures. Its functions include providing small businesses access to capital, offering free or low-cost counseling and training, working with other government agencies to contract small businesses, and advocating on behalf of the small business sector in front of Congress. It was established in 1953.
What does the Department of the Treasury (TREAS) do?
The Department of the Treasury (Department of Treasury, TREAS) is a cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for overseeing economic conditions and ensuring the financial security of the United States. The department's functions include advising the president on economic matters, managing federal finances, collecting taxes through the Internal Revenue Service, producing currency, and supervising national banks. It was established in 1789 and is the second-oldest department in the federal government.
What does the Department of Labor (DOL) do?
The Department of Labor (DOL) is an executive branch agency responsible for overseeing the American labor force and working conditions. Its functions include enforcing wage and hour standards and union law, regulating workplace safety, administering unemployment benefits and workers’ compensation, collecting labor market data, and promoting workforce development. It was established in 1913.
What does the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) do?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is an independent executive branch agency tasked with enforcing workplace discrimination laws. Its functions include investigating charges of discrimination against employers, providing guidance and oversight on equal employment practices, and conducting outreach and education programs. Most companies with 15 or more employees are under EEOC jurisdiction. The agency was established by the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
What does the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) do?
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is an executive branch agency responsible for national housing policy and community development. Its functions include providing affordable housing assistance, enforcing fair housing laws, supporting homeownership programs, and administering grants for urban development and disaster recovery. It was established in 1965.
What does the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) do?
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is an independent executive branch agency responsible for safeguarding employees’ rights to unionize and preventing unfair labor practices. Its functions include conducting union elections, investigating charges of unfair practices, deciding cases, and enforcing punishment. It was established in 1935.
What does the Department of Energy (DOE) do?
The Department of Energy (DOE) is an executive branch agency responsible for overseeing national energy policy and managing the country’s nuclear infrastructure. Its functions include advancing energy research and innovation, promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy, regulating the production and distribution of electricity and fossil fuels, and ensuring the security of the US nuclear weapons stockpile. It was established in 1977.
What does the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) do?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance. OSHA's mission is to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths by issuing and enforcing rules (called standards) for workplace safety and health. It was established in 1970.
What does the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) do?
The Office of The United States Trade Representative (USTR) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for developing and coordinating US international trade, commodity, and direct investment policy, and overseeing negotiations with other countries. The agency works to create trade opportunities for American businesses and workers, enforce US trade laws, and ensure that trade agreements are fair and beneficial to the US economy. It was established in 1963.
What does the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) do?
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is an independent agency responsible for consumer protection in the financial sector. The bureau's primary mission is to ensure that markets for consumer financial products and services work for Americans. The CFPB enforces federal consumer financial laws, supervises financial institutions, and educates consumers to make informed financial decisions. It was established in 2010 as part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
What is the unemployment rate in the US right now?
About 4.4% in December 2025. That's a 0.3 percentage point increase from a year before. The unemployment rate is the percentage of people in the labor force who are actively looking for work but not currently employed. It's a common way to measure the health of the job market and economy.
What is the gross domestic product (GDP) in the US?
About $24T in Q3 2025. Gross domestic product (GDP) measures the value of goods and services a country or state produces — it’s the sum of consumer spending, business investment, government spending, and net exports. It is often used to quantify the size of its economy. The $24T is the “real GDP,” which is adjusted to account for inflation to make it easier to compare the size of an economy over time.
How many job openings are there in the US?
About 7.67 million, as of October 2025. The number of job openings increased by 55,000 from October 2024. A “job opening” is defined as a position open on the last business day of the month. To be considered “open,” a job must meet three conditions: (1) There’s work available for the position; (2) The job could start within 30 days; and (3) The employer is actively recruiting.
What is the average wage in the US?
About $1,264 per week in November 2025, 0.8% higher than a year before. The average weekly wage, the typical earnings that employees bring home for one week of work, is a valuable indicator to assess economic conditions, labor market health, and wage trends.
How much revenue does the federal government collect from tariffs?
$77 billion in FY 2024. This figure reflects revenue from tariffs and other import-related fees, also known as customs duties. Customs duties are taxes and fees paid by US importers and collected by US Customs and Border Protection on goods imported into the country, which generate revenue for the federal government.
What is the federal government's budget deficit?
About $1.83 trillion deficit in fiscal year (FY) 2024. A budget deficit occurs when the federal government spends more money than it brings in through taxes, customs duties, the sale of assets, and other revenues. When the government has a deficit, it borrows money by selling bonds and other securities in order to pay for it, adding to the national debt. A budget surplus, on the other hand, occurs when the government brings in more money than it spends.
What countries receive the most foreign aid from the US?
In fiscal year (FY) 2024 — the most recent fully-reported year — Israel received $6.82 billion, the most of any country. This amount reflects disbursements, a measure of foreign aid that captures when money is actually transferred out of US government accounts. Foreign aid is reported by more than 20 agencies within the federal government that fund foreign assistance activities.
How many people are laid off in the United States each month?
About 1.85 million in October 2025. This includes all terminations of employment by an employer — called layoffs and discharges — such as permanent layoffs, temporary layoffs, and terminations because of mergers, downsizing, closings, or employee performance.
How much debt does the average person in the US owe?
Around $63,300 as of the third quarter of 2025. Compared to the previous quarter (April through June 2025), the average adult owed $136 less after adjusting for inflation, reflecting slight shifts in household borrowing patterns. This debt, often referred to as “household debt,” represents the total amount owed by individuals for obligations such as mortgages, student loans, credit cards, and auto loans.
Is the US a bigger oil importer or exporter?
In 2024, the US exported more crude oil and petroleum products than it imported. Petroleum and petroleum product exports totaled about 10.71 million barrels per day, while imports were about 8.44 million barrels a day. That’s a -2.3 million barrel a day difference. Crude oil is a fossil fuel that can be refined into petroleum products such as jet fuel and gasoline. The US used to consistently import more petroleum and crude oil than it exported. But exports exceeded imports starting in October 2019. It’s been a net exporter in all but seven months since then.
How much money do doctors make in the US?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), about 839,000 people worked as physicians or surgeons in 2024, earning a median annual wage of at least $239,200. By comparison, America's general median wage was $49,500. These jobs require in-depth education and training, and the work environment often requires long shifts and irregular hours. The work can be intense, but the professions are growing. The BLS estimates 24,300 new physician and surgeon jobs will be created over the next decade due to an aging population, increasing rates of chronic illnesses, and mental health service growth. While salaries vary by location and specialty, physicians are some of the most well-compensated healthcare practitioners and among the highest earners overall.How does doctor pay compare to that of other medical professions?Physicians and surgeons earn more than non-physician healthcare practitioners, which includes dentists, therapists, and nurses. This larger group of occupations earns a median annual wage of $101,370, which is more than 80% below the median ($239,200) for physicians and surgeons.
What role do small businesses play in the economy?
Small business development had been declining nationwide during the four decades before the pandemic. However, since 2020, this portion of the private sector has been driving the bulk of US job growth. What’s considered a small business?The Small Business Administration (SBA) generally defines a “small business” as any independent business with fewer than 500 employees. How many small businesses are there in the US?Small businesses are 99.9% of all businesses nationwide. According to an SBA report from June 2025, the US had 36.2 million small businesses. These small firms employed 62.3 million people, or 45.9% of all private-sector employees. They were responsible for 88.9% of overall job growth from 2023 to 2024.
Where do inventors come from?
Pop quiz: You’re raised in any state in America. Which one gives you the best shot at becoming an inventor?The answer: Minnesota. Adults who spent their childhoods there have been more likely to file a patent than people raised anywhere else in America. (All data and correlations in this article come from tax and patent records analyzed by Opportunity Insights.)Of the 7,473 people who filled out our newsletter quiz, 26% guessed Minnesota. Congrats to the successful guessers! We recommend you celebrate your data savvy with a can of Spam — which was invented in … Minnesota.