The trend since 2019.
The latest available read: Capacity Utilization is at 76.3% as of July 2026. Source: FRED · TCU.
Why it matters.
When capacity utilization climbs, companies often hire and raise wages to meet demand, which can push inflation higher. If it stays elevated, the Fed may keep interest rates higher for longer, affecting your mortgage rate and investment returns.
Where it fits.
Capacity Utilization feeds the Growth view — one of the six areas behind the site's Macro IQ score.