Economic indicators are statistics and measurements that provide insight into economic conditions and trends. Key indicators include unemployment rates, GDP growth, inflation, consumer spending, housing starts, business investment, and retail sales. Municipalities monitor local economic indicators to inform budget planning, economic development strategies, and service demands. Leading indicators (like building permits) predict future economic activity, coincident indicators (like employment) reflect current conditions, and lagging indicators (like unemployment insurance claims) confirm trends after they've occurred. Statistics Canada produces national and regional economic data, while municipalities may track local measures like commercial vacancy rates, new business registrations, and tourism statistics. Understanding economic indicators helps citizens evaluate government performance claims and anticipate how economic conditions might affect public services and personal finances.