Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Retail Trade
Not Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSIR44000USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.30
Year-over-Year Change
-1.52%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales trend measures the total sales of goods and services across U.S. retail establishments without adjusting for typical seasonal variations.
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
This data series provides a raw, unadjusted representation of consumer spending, which is a key indicator of economic activity and consumer confidence. It is commonly used by economists and policymakers to analyze underlying retail trends.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- The retail sector employs over 15 million people in the United States.
- E-commerce sales now make up over 13% of total U.S. retail trade.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales trend measures the total value of goods and services sold by U.S. retail establishments without accounting for typical seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This raw, unadjusted data provides valuable insights into underlying consumer spending patterns, which is a key indicator of economic health and activity.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to inform decisions on monetary and fiscal policies that impact consumer spending and the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of several weeks from the end of the reference period.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Automotive Parts, Accessory, and Tire Stores
MRTSSM4413USS
Retail Inventories: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSIM441USS
Retail Sales: Gasoline Stations
MRTSSM447USN
Monthly State Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA446
E-Commerce Retail Sales as a Percent of Total Sales
ECOMPCTSA
Retail Sales: Grocery Stores
MRTSSM4451USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSIR44000USN), retrieved from FRED.