Retail Sales: Retail Trade
This dataset tracks retail sales: retail trade over time.
Latest Value
617367.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.83%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
Retail Sales: Retail Trade measures consumer spending on a broad range of retail goods and services, providing insight into the overall strength of the U.S. 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
This key economic indicator tracks monthly changes in the total sales of retail establishments, including stores, restaurants, and other sales outlets. It is a closely watched metric that reveals consumer demand and confidence.
Methodology
The data is collected through a monthly survey of retail businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail Sales is a vital input for policymakers and analysts assessing the health of the consumer-driven U.S. economy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- The retail sector employs over 15 million workers in the U.S.
- Monthly retail sales data is released around the 15th of each month.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: Retail Sales: Retail Trade measures the total value of goods and services sold by the retail sector in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a crucial indicator of consumer demand and economic health, as consumer spending drives a large portion of U.S. economic activity.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through a monthly survey of retail businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures are closely monitored by policymakers, economists, and market analysts to assess the strength of the consumer-driven U.S. economy and inform economic policies.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released around the 15th of each month, providing a timely snapshot of consumer spending patterns.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Retail Trade (MRTSSM44000USS), retrieved from FRED.