Economic Outlook Report Q2 2026

Key Points

  • The economic outlook for the national economy is positive.  GDP, Consumption, Net Investment, and Profits are expected to grow, while the unemployment rate is expected to decline.
  • The outlook for North Carolina is positive, with growing wages and salaries expected. Gross state product may have a slight downturn in the short term but is expected to grow into 2027.
  • The outlook for the Fayetteville Metropolitan Area continues to improve. 
  • Wages in Fayetteville are forecast to grow in 2026.
  • Fayetteville housing index is forecast to hold near its current level.
  • The Fayetteville unemployment rate is expected to continue its downward trend.

 

Fayetteville MSA Economic Outlook

Graphs of economic factors, the trends are discussed below.

The outlook for the Fayetteville Metropolitan Area is improved.

  • Wages in the metro area look to increase in 2026 but may face a short downturn in 2027.
  • Unemployment rate is in a general downward trend.
  • The labor force trend is flat with a slight possible decline.
  • The housing index is holding steady.

 

North Carolina Economic Outlook

Graphs of economic factors, the trends are discussed below.

The North Carolina economy continues to perform well

  • Growth in gross state product and total wages and salaries is expected to continue.
  • The labor market will continue to see low unemployment with an expanding labor force.

 

National (USA) Economic Outlook

Graphs of economic factors, the trends are discussed below.

The economic outlook for the U.S. economy remains positive

  • GDP, Consumption, Net Investment, and Profits are expected to grow.
  • The unemployment rate is on the decline.

 

Full Text of Current and Past Reports