durable good

economics

Also known as: consumer durable

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June 25, 2026

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In economics, a durable good is a tangible commodity that is purchased for its utility and is expected to last for a significant period, typically three years or more. Unlike nondurable goods, which are consumed quickly, durable goods provide their value over an extended lifespan, meaning their consumption is spread out over time. This characteristic often leads consumers to postpone purchases of durable goods, making them a more volatile component of overall consumption.1

Common examples of durable goods include automobiles, furniture, and household appliances. The consumption of these items generates "consumption services" throughout their lifespan, rather than being fully consumed at the point of purchase. This distinction is important in economic analysis, particularly when examining macroeconomic fluctuations and the business cycle.12

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consumption
Consumption and the business cycle
Durable goods are generally defined as those whose expected lifetime is greater than three years, and spending on durable goods is much more volatile than spending in the other two categories. Services include a broad range of items including telephone and utility service, legal and…
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Durable goods are generally defined as those whose expected lifetime is greater than three years, and spending on durable goods is much more volatile than spending in the other two categories. Services include a broad range of items including telephone and utility service, legal and…
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consumer good
Consumer durable goods have a significant life span, often three years or more (although some authorities classify goods with life spans of as little as one year as durable). As with capital goods (tangible items such as buildings, machinery, and equipment produced and used in the…
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Consumer durable goods have a significant life span, often three years or more (although some authorities classify goods with life spans of as little as one year as durable). As with capital goods (tangible items such as buildings, machinery, and equipment produced and used in the…
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economic forecasting
Forecasting the GNP and its elements
…have their main effect on durable goods such as automobiles and household appliances; spending is far more stable for nondurables (food, clothing, and the like) and for services.
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…have their main effect on durable goods such as automobiles and household appliances; spending is far more stable for nondurables (food, clothing, and the like) and for services.
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visible trade
These consumer goods may be durable (consumed over a period of time), as are appliances or automobiles, or nondurable (consumed almost immediately), as is food. Visible trade also includes the export and import of goods used directly in the production of other goods and services (capital goods) such as industrial…
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These consumer goods may be durable (consumed over a period of time), as are appliances or automobiles, or nondurable (consumed almost immediately), as is food. Visible trade also includes the export and import of goods used directly in the production of other goods and services (capital goods) such as industrial…
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