Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSMPCSM441USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.40
Year-over-Year Change
-145.16%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator measures the monthly percent change in U.S. retail sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides insight into consumer spending patterns and overall economic activity.
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
The Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted metric tracks the month-over-month change in total sales across U.S. retail and food service establishments. This data is a key indicator of consumer demand and is widely used by economists and policymakers to assess the health of the broader economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform economic policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending has increased by an average of 3.5% annually over the past decade.
- Seasonally adjusted data removes regular fluctuations due to weather, holidays, and other calendar effects.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator measures the monthly percent change in total U.S. retail and food service sales, adjusted for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a key indicator of consumer demand and overall economic activity, providing important insights for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses across the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform decisions on monetary policy and assess the health of the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released on a monthly basis, with a typical 2-week delay from the end of the reference period.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Nonstore Retailers
MRTSSM454USS
Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSSM441USS
Retail Sales: GAFO (General Merchandise Normally Sold in Department Stores)
MRTSMPCSM4400CUSN
Retail Sales: Shoe Stores
MRTSSM4482USN
Retail Sales: Restaurants and Other Eating Places
MRTSSM7225USN
Retail Sales: Beer, Wine, and Liquor Stores
MRTSSM4453USN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSMPCSM441USS), retrieved from FRED.