BEA estimates 3.4% annualized real GDP growth in the third quarter
BEA’s October 29 advance estimate puts third-quarter real GDP growth at a 3.4% annual rate, compared with 2.2% in the second quarter.
What the record says
Real U.S. gross domestic product increased at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.4% in the third quarter of 2026, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis’ October 29 advance estimate. BEA reports 2.2% annualized growth in the second quarter.
BEA says investment, consumer spending and government spending contributed to third-quarter growth, partly offset by lower exports. Imports, which are subtracted in the GDP calculation, increased.
The technical notes put the third-quarter increase at 0.8% at a quarterly rate. The 3.4% headline is annualized, rather than the change over those three months alone.
BEA schedules the second estimate of third-quarter GDP, alongside corporate profits, for November 25, 2026.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Read BEA’s release and technical notes for the estimate, components and later revisions.
Limits and what is not established
This advance estimate can be revised. Annualized and quarterly growth rates describe the same period differently and should not be confused.
Sources checked October 30, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis: original information