GDP Data: 5 Sources Compared (2025 Edition)

Not All GDP Data Is Created Equal

When your analysis depends on accurate GDP figures, choosing the right source matters. We compared the five major sources of GDP data across key dimensions.

The Contenders

Detailed Analysis

Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)

Best for: US-focused analysis with maximum granularity

The BEA is the gold standard for US GDP data. They release advance, second, and third estimates, plus annual revisions. If you need GDP by industry, state-level data, or real-time tracking, BEA is your source.

IQ Score on DataSetIQ: 98

International Monetary Fund (WEO)

Best for: Global forecasts and cross-country comparisons

The World Economic Outlook database includes IMF staff projections, making it invaluable for forward-looking analysis. Updated in April and October.

IQ Score on DataSetIQ: 94

World Bank

Best for: Development economics and long-term trends

Excellent coverage of developing nations and consistent methodology across countries. Perfect for research spanning decades.

IQ Score on DataSetIQ: 92

OECD

Best for: Developed economy comparisons and quarterly data

The most detailed international quarterly GDP data, with breakdown by expenditure components. Consistent methodology for member countries.

IQ Score on DataSetIQ: 95

Eurostat

Best for: European Union analysis

Fastest updates for EU data, with flash estimates within 30 days of quarter end. Harmonized methodology across all EU members.

IQ Score on DataSetIQ: 93

Which Should You Use?

Use BEA when:

• Analyzing US GDP exclusively
• Need monthly/quarterly breakdowns
• Require industry or state-level detail

Use IMF when:

• Need forecasts (not just historical data)
• Comparing diverse economies
• Writing policy analysis

Use World Bank when:

• Studying development economics
• Need data from 1960s+
• Analyzing low-income countries

Use OECD when:

• Comparing developed economies
• Need quarterly frequency
• Want consistent methodology

Use Eurostat when:

• Focusing on European markets
• Need fastest available updates
• Require EU-harmonized definitions

Find All Sources in One Place

DataSetIQ aggregates GDP data from all five sources. Search once, compare IQ scores, and download from the most suitable source.

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