The Energy Squeeze
Below pre-COVID levels (3.6%), well off the 2022 energy-price shock peak of 4...
What is the current The Energy Squeeze?
U.S. household energy expenditures represent 3.35% of spending in the latest reading. The Energy Squeeze tracks household energy costs as a share of overall spending — capturing electricity, natural gas, heating oil, and motor fuel. Low-income households spend 2-3x this share and face energy insecurity: choosing between heating and eating. Source: BLS, EIA.
Household energy costs consume 3.4% of disposable income — down from the 4.7% peak in 2022
Below pre-COVID levels (3.6%), well off the 2022 energy-price shock peak of 4.70%.
Explore Further
Is this happening to you?
Have your electric or gas bills changed how you heat or cool your home?
How has The Energy Squeeze changed over time?
| Period | Value | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 2025 | 3.35% | −0.0 pts |
| Jul 2025 | 3.27% | −0.2 pts |
| Apr 2025 | 3.31% | −0.2 pts |
| Jan 2025 | 3.47% | −0.0 pts |
| Oct 2024 | 3.36% | −0.3 pts |
| Jul 2024 | 3.43% | −0.3 pts |
| Apr 2024 | 3.56% | −0.1 pts |
| Jan 2024 | 3.49% | −0.3 pts |
| Oct 2023 | 3.63% | −0.5 pts |
| Jul 2023 | 3.73% | −0.6 pts |
| Apr 2023 | 3.62% | −1.1 pts |
| Jan 2023 | 3.83% | −0.5 pts |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Energy Squeeze?
The Energy Squeeze tracks household energy costs as a percentage of total spending, currently 3.35%. It captures utility bills and fuel costs as a share of the household budget.
Why does energy affordability matter?
Energy is essential and non-discretionary. Low-income households are most vulnerable to energy cost spikes, facing impossible trade-offs between heating, food, and debt payments.
Where does this data come from?
Derived from BLS Consumer Expenditure Survey and EIA energy price data.
Quick poll
Is this affecting you or your household?
Discussion
Get the numbers when they move.
New data drops, indicator updates, and ADI score changes — delivered when it matters. No spam.
or Create an Account for full access
Loading comments…