Trendlines Statewide Monthly Construction Data-February 2025

November Shipments Contract for Third Consecutive Month

Data recently released by the United States Geological Service showed cement shipments declined by 13% in November 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The tonnage is the third lowest total in 2004, and the state has now seen a drop for 3 consecutive months. Looking to ready mix yardage, we estimate 448,137 cubic yards were placed during the month. The estimated yardage is a 26% decrease from October yardage.

Looking to residential construction data, a recent report by the Alabama Center for Real Estate estimated 17,301 homes were started in Alabama in 2024. This represents a 10% increase over 2023. Commercial construction on the other hand is facing headwinds according to the AIA Billing Index. January’s billing index came in at 45.6. While this is a slight uptick from 44 in December, any number below 50 forecasts a contracting commercial market.

With one month of data still to be reported for 2024, the state is .1% ahead of 2023 yardage. The state has seen positive growth for three consecutive years, but risks seeing a year over drop for 2024.