NorthStar Estimating, Inc.
← Back to Insights

NorthStar Index

Q1 2026 Release

The NorthStar Index (NSI) tracks six benchmark construction materials each quarter, indexed to 100 at 2021 Q1. Rather than smoothing every input into a broad composite, NSI focuses on the categories that most often surface as the line items that break a budget.

The Q1 2026 composite continues the steady ratchet that began after the 2023 plateau. Copper-driven feeder costs lead the underlying movers; cement and steel rebar remain firm; PVC has softened.

Coverage

Lumber · Cement (ready-mix) · Rebar · PVC pipe · Aluminum · 400A feeder (EMT / copper wire).

NorthStar Index — Composite

Quarterly, base 100 = 2021 Q1.

Latest: 164

80100120140160180202120222023202420252026
Equal-weighted composite of the six benchmark materials. Illustrative placeholder values.

Lumber

+7.5%

YoY · per MBF

Cement (ready-mix)

+5.6%

YoY · per CY

Rebar

+10.4%

YoY · per ton

PVC pipe

+0.0%

YoY · per LF

Aluminum

+10.8%

YoY · per lb

400A Feeder (EMT / copper)

+14.9%

YoY · per LF

Methodology. Composite equal-weights the six benchmark materials. Each material indexed to 100 at 2021 Q1. Sparklines show the full five-year quarterly history. Year-over-year change compares the most recent quarter to four quarters prior. Illustrative placeholder values — real NSI release values pending.

© 2026 NorthStar Estimating, Inc. · northstarestimating.com/insights

More insights

Cost Estimating

In Design-Build, the Estimator Needs to Be in the Room Early

In design-build, the estimate is not just a report — it is a management tool. When the estimator is in the room early, the team can weigh the cost of design decisions before they become difficult to change, protecting design intent and managing budget risk from concept through construction.

NorthStar EstimatingJune 29, 2026

Cost Estimating

When Two Estimates Don't Match, Start with the Assumptions

In preconstruction, the biggest variance between two estimates often sits on the summary page — not in the line items. Align the commercial assumptions first, and the real reconciliation can begin.

NorthStar EstimatingJune 19, 2026