In July, the Hull College of Business Augusta Leading Economic Index (LEI) increased 0.5% from May. The index has increased 4.2% from July 2013. This represents five consecutive months of growth. The increase was driven by housing permits (increased 5.5% from June) and initial claims for unemployment insurance (decreased 9.3% from June). Job openings increased by 0.6% and a small decrease in the price level improved consumers' purchasing power.

The housing market continues to improve. According to data from Blanchard and Calhoun house prices for properties that sold in August were 4.1% higher than in August 2013. Buyers can benefit from a large inventory of homes for sale, although this inventory is lower than last year at this time.