Retail Sales: Building Materials and Supplies Dealers
Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSSM4441USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
37,660.00
Year-over-Year Change
0.60%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator measures the total value of monthly retail and food services sales in the United States, providing insights into consumer spending patterns.
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 'Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks the total dollar value of retail and food service sales, excluding motor vehicle and parts dealers. It is a key gauge of overall consumer demand and an important input for macroeconomic analysis.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
This metric is closely monitored by policymakers, investors, and economists to assess the health of the U.S. economy and make informed decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail and food service sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. GDP.
- The series does not adjust for seasonal variations in sales.
- Sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator tracks the total dollar value of retail and food service sales in the United States, excluding motor vehicle and parts dealers.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales are a key measure of consumer spending and an important indicator of the overall health of the U.S. economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers, investors, and economists closely monitor this metric to assess consumer demand and make informed decisions about fiscal and monetary policy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly, with a slight delay, and does not adjust for seasonal variations in sales.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSSM44Y72USS
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronics, and Appliance Stores
MRTSIR4423XUSS
Monthly State Retail Sales: Gasoline Stations in the United States
MSRSUSA447
Retail Sales: Hardware Stores
MRTSSM44413USN
Monthly State Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers in the United States
MSRSUSA441
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: General Merchandise Stores
MRTSIR452USS
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSSM4441USN), retrieved from FRED.