MSI Releases Q1 2025 Construction Economy Report

New Edition Widens Distribution to Meet Growing Insight Demand

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MOCA Systems, Inc. (MSI), a leading construction services and technology firm, announced the release and broadened availability of its Q1 2025 Today’s Construction Economy report.

This edition of the quarterly report features timely data and insights on supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, regulatory uncertainty, and other challenges currently facing industry leaders.

"For years, this report has been a must-read for decision-makers in the largest construction firms and government agencies to help them stay on top of the latest industry dynamics," said MSI CEO Sandy Hamby. "The increasing velocity, complexity, and uncertainty of the construction sector is touching companies and projects of all types and sizes and broadening the need for the timely, actionable economic intelligence this report provides and that we are now making available to a wider industry audience.”

The Q1 report examines slowing spending growth, shifting labor markets, emerging risks from tariff and immigration policies, and other events that could impact construction costs and project schedules in the coming months.

"While the construction industry remains strong, firms must prepare for potential headwinds in 2025," said Brandon Michalski, Principal Construction Economist at MSI and report author. "Ongoing labor shortages, supply chain volatility, and policy changes will require strategic planning to mitigate the impacts of higher project expenses and potential delays."

Key Findings from the Q1 2025 Construction Economy Report include:

• Labor Market Softening but Skill Shortages Persist
  • Construction job openings fell 39.2% YoY in November 2024.
  • Workforce mobility declined, but skill shortages and tighter immigration policies may drive labor costs up.
• Policy Shifts May Drive Costs Higher
  • Proposed tariffs on steel and aluminum could raise material costs and delay projects.
  • Stricter immigration policies may worsen labor shortages and increase wages.
  • Despite challenges, onshoring and trade expansion could yield long-term benefits.
• Material Orders Stable, Machinery Orders Soften Amid Tariff Concerns
  • Construction material orders remain steady, signaling ongoing activity.
  • Machinery orders declined YoY, suggesting a slowdown in replacements.
  • Tariff enforcement could raise material costs and disrupt supply chains.
• Construction Spending Normalizing
  • U.S. construction spending grew 3.0% YoY, with nonresidential up 2.8%.
  • Commercial sector spending dropped 8.0% YoY, with over $1T in real estate refinancing expected in the next two years.

Today’s Construction Economy is a key business resource provided at no charge by MSI's Economic Services unit, which also offers a broad range of economic services to support MSI clients’ project strategy, planning, and management.

The full report can be found here.

About MOCA Systems, Inc.

MOCA Systems, Inc. (MSI) is a leading services and software provider for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. MSI delivers innovative solutions to Owners, Engineers, Architects, and Contractors working on some of the world’s largest, most complex construction projects. A profitable firm with offices across the United States and partners around the globe, MSI’s services and technology offerings ensure that projects are delivered on time and on budget and meeting all Owner expectations. To learn more, visit mocasystems.com.

About Today’s Construction Economy Report

Prepared by MOCA Systems, Inc.’s Principal Construction Economist, Brandon Michalski, Today's Construction Economy is a quarterly must-read for industry leaders seeking comprehensive, data-driven analysis for the nonresidential construction sector.

This in-depth report synthesizes insights from hundreds of trusted sources, including news, analytics, and industry experts, to provide timely, actionable intelligence to thousands of construction professionals. By integrating hard economic data with expert commentary, Today's Construction Economy offers clear, informed analysis to help stakeholders navigate market shifts, anticipate trends, and make confident strategic decisions.