Retail Sales: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSSM4400AUSN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
480,811.00
Year-over-Year Change
3.45%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures retail sales for the total U.S. economy, excluding motor vehicles and parts dealers. It is a key indicator of consumer spending and broader 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 Retail Sales: Total (Excluding Motor Vehicle & Parts Dealers), Not Seasonally Adjusted series tracks the value of sales by U.S. retail establishments. It provides insights into consumer demand and confidence, which are crucial for understanding the health of the overall economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts closely monitor retail sales to assess economic conditions and make informed decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- This series excludes auto and auto parts dealers, focusing on broader consumer spending.
- Retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the total value of retail sales in the U.S. economy, excluding motor vehicle and parts dealers.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales data is a crucial indicator of consumer spending and overall economic health, making it essential for policymakers, investors, and analysts.
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: Policymakers and central banks closely monitor retail sales to assess consumer demand, guide monetary and fiscal policies, and make informed decisions about the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical release lag of around two weeks.
Related Trends
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Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Total (Excluding Motor Vehicle & Parts Dealers), Not Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSSM4400AUSN), retrieved from FRED.