Retail Sales: Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores

Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted

MRTSMPCSM442USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

0.10

Year-over-Year Change

-91.67%

Date Range

2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025

Summary

This economic indicator measures the month-over-month percent change in U.S. retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It provides insight into consumer spending and 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 monthly fluctuations in U.S. retail sales, a key indicator of consumer demand and broader economic conditions. Economists and policymakers closely monitor this data to assess the health of the consumer sector.

Methodology

The U.S. Census Bureau collects and seasonally adjusts the retail sales data through surveys of a sample of retail and food services firms.

Historical Context

This metric is widely used to inform economic policy decisions and market analysis.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
  • The data is seasonally adjusted to account for predictable monthly variations.
  • Consumer spending is a major driver of the U.S. economy.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This indicator measures the month-over-month percent change in U.S. retail and food services sales, adjusted for seasonal variations.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Retail sales are a key indicator of consumer demand and broader economic activity, making this metric crucial for economists, policymakers, and market analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects and seasonally adjusts the retail sales data through surveys of a sample of retail and food services firms.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: This metric is widely used to inform economic policy decisions and market analysis, as it provides insights into the health of the consumer sector.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of around two weeks.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSMPCSM442USS), retrieved from FRED.