The October 2026 Cost Index reflects a more stable construction cost environment entering Q4, with Building Cost increasing just 0.10% and Construction Cost rising 0.20%. Material Cost increased 0.20%, representing a significant moderation from September’s 2.20% increase, while labor remained largely stable, with Common Labor increasing 0.20% and Skilled Labor holding flat at 0.00%. The largest material increase came from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe at 2.00%, followed by Reinforced Concrete Pipe at 1.80%, indicating continued pricing pressure in utility, drainage, and site infrastructure scopes. Structural Steel increased 0.80%, while Cement rose just 0.10%. Lumber was the only tracked material to decline, decreasing 0.60% and providing modest relief in wood-based construction costs. Overall, the October report points to improved near-term cost stability and a more predictable budgeting and estimating environment, although selective material escalation and procurement-related risks continue to warrant close monitoring.
Click on the link above to view the latest cost data for October 2026.