Warning! Your browser is extremely outdated and not web standards compliant.
Your browsing experience would greatly improve by upgrading to a modern browser.

OUR FOCUS IS ON THE FACTS.

Our Mission

It's Just Common Sense.

CSI’s mission is to examine the fiscal impacts of policies, initiatives, and proposed laws so that citizens are educated and informed on issues impacting their lives. CSI employs rigorous research techniques and dynamic modeling to evaluate the potential impact of these measures on the economy and individual opportunity.

 

 

Our Impact

Common Sense Institute is a non-partisan research organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the economy. CSI is at the forefront of important discussions concerning the future of free enterprise and aims to have an impact on the issues that matter most.

Donate

Support CSI's Mission

At Common Sense Institute, we strive to provide research and insights that drive effective policy solutions for the most pressing issues. Your generous donation helps us continue our work in fostering informed dialogue and crafting innovative approaches to enhance our community’s economic vitality and public safety. Join us in making a difference—donate today to support a brighter future.

 

Research
View All
Housing & Our Community
Housing Affordability in Iowa: Q3 2025

Iowa has the 11th most affordable housing market relative to what residents earn.

Jobs & Our Economy
Denver Metro Household Budget Pressure: Inflation, Taxes, and Shifting Spending Patterns

Over the past several years, the financial landscape facing households in the Denver metropolitan area has shifted: residents are saving less and spending more than in previous economic cycles. Inflation al

Jobs & Our Economy
Portland’s Thanksgiving Dinner Cost

Thanksgiving Dinner is cheaper this year, with the Farm Bureau estimating the national cost at $55.18—a 5% drop driven by lower prices for key items like turkey, stuffing, dinner rolls, and cranberries. Por

November 25, 2025 Serra KirschThomas Young
Jobs & Our Economy
All’s Well That Ends Well: What Oregon Gives Thanks for This Year

Oregon closes out the year with several encouraging trends, including rising real incomes, falling poverty, a calmer wildfire season, and modest housing-supply progress. Together, these improvements highlig

November 25, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen