E-Commerce Retail Sales
This dataset tracks e-commerce retail sales over time.
Latest Value
300226.00
Year-over-Year Change
23.05%
Date Range
10/1/1999 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The E-Commerce Retail Sales trend measures the total value of retail sales conducted through online and digital channels in the United States. This metric is a key indicator of consumer behavior and the growth of the digital economy.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
E-Commerce Retail Sales represents the portion of total retail sales that occur through e-commerce platforms and websites. It is an important barometer for analyzing consumer preferences, the shift to online shopping, and the overall health of the retail sector.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses in the U.S.
Historical Context
E-Commerce Retail Sales data is closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to understand evolving consumer trends and the impact of the digital transformation.
Key Facts
- E-Commerce sales account for over 14% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Online sales grew over 15% year-over-year in the most recent period.
- The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to e-commerce by several years.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The E-Commerce Retail Sales trend measures the total value of retail transactions conducted through online and digital channels in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: E-Commerce Retail Sales is a key indicator of consumer behavior and the growth of the digital economy, providing insights into evolving shopping preferences and the health of the retail sector.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses in the U.S.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: E-Commerce Retail Sales data is closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to understand evolving consumer trends and the impact of the digital transformation on the economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The E-Commerce Retail Sales data is published monthly with a brief delay to allow for collection and processing.
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Citation
U.S. Census Bureau, E-Commerce Retail Sales (ECOMSA), retrieved from FRED.