Our Methodology

Last updated: March 2026 · Updated monthly

ServiceCostHub.com generates cost estimates using publicly available federal government data - the same sources used by the Federal Reserve and academic researchers to track price levels across the United States.

Data sources

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Used to establish national baseline costs and track 12-month price trends for each service category. We use the CPI-U series for Housing, Services, Medical Care, and Transportation.

bls.gov/cpi · Updated monthly

Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) - Regional Price Parities (RPPs)

Used to adjust national baseline costs for each state's cost of living. Hawaii's RPP of ~119 means services cost 19% more than the national average. This adjustment makes our estimates far more accurate than a single national figure.

bea.gov/data/prices-inflation/regional-price-parities-state-and-metro-area · Updated annually

FRED (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis)

Used for additional services price series including PCE Price Index and Core Services CPI.

fred.stlouisfed.org · Updated monthly

How we calculate estimates

Every cost estimate on ServiceCostHub.com is generated using this formula:

Adjusted Cost = National Baseline x (State RPP / 100)

Low Estimate = Adjusted Cost x 0.80
High Estimate = Adjusted Cost x 1.30

The National Baseline is derived from BLS CPI data calibrated against industry benchmarks. The State RPP adjustment reflects the actual cost-of-living difference in your state.

Limitations

Our estimates represent typical ranges. They are not quotes. Actual costs depend on factors specific to your property, contractor, and local demand. Always get at least 3 quotes before making a decision.

Update schedule

BLS CPI data is released monthly - we update all cost estimates within 7 days of each release. BEA Regional Price Parities are updated annually, typically in Q4.