Retail Sales: Family Clothing Stores
MRTSSM44814USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
11,800.00
Year-over-Year Change
9.25%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Family Clothing Stores trend measures monthly sales at family clothing stores in the United States. It is a key indicator of 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
This series tracks the value of retail sales at stores that primarily sell a range of clothing for the entire family, including men's, women's, and children's apparel. It is used by economists and policymakers to assess the health of the consumer sector and overall economic conditions.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
This trend provides insight into consumer demand and is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other economic analysts.
Key Facts
- Family clothing stores account for about 3% of total U.S. retail sales.
- Retail sales at family clothing stores peaked in 2007 before declining during the Great Recession.
- Online sales have increasingly impacted in-store sales at family clothing retailers.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Family Clothing Stores trend measures the monthly sales at U.S. retail stores that primarily sell a range of clothing for the entire family.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides insight into consumer spending patterns and the health of the apparel industry, which is an important component of the overall economy.
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: The Retail Sales: Family Clothing Stores trend is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other economic analysts to assess consumer demand and inform policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released with a short lag, typically within a month of the reference period, and may be subject to revisions.
Related Trends
Monthly State Retail Sales: Total Retail Sales Excluding Nonstore Retailers in the United States
MSRSUSATOTAL
Retail Sales: Shoe Stores
MRTSSM4482USN
Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores, Including Warehouse Clubs & Supercenters
MPCSM4523USN
Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores, Including Warehouse Clubs & Supercenters
SM4523USN
Retail Sales: Office Supplies, Stationery, and Gift Stores
MRTSSM4532USN
Monthly State Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA446
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Family Clothing Stores (MRTSSM44814USN), retrieved from FRED.