Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSSM4529USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
66,846.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.53%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 2/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures monthly retail sales in the United States, providing insight into consumer spending patterns 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 'Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks the total value of retail sales across a range of consumer goods and services, offering a key indicator of the health and direction of the U.S. economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
This trend is closely monitored by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to gauge consumer confidence and guide economic decision-making.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending has risen for 12 consecutive months as of the latest data.
- The trend experienced a sharp decline early in the COVID-19 pandemic but has since rebounded.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the total dollar value of retail sales in the United States, providing insight into consumer spending patterns and the overall health of the economy.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales are a crucial indicator of consumer confidence and economic activity, making this trend highly relevant for policymakers, businesses, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments 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 data to gauge consumer spending, which informs decisions on interest rates, monetary policy, and other economic interventions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical delay of a few weeks from the end of the reference period.
Related Trends
Monthly State Retail Sales: Food and Beverage Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA445
Retail Sales: Department Stores
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Retail Sales: Family Clothing Stores
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Monthly State Retail Sales: Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores in the United States
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Retail Sales: Office Supplies and Stationery Stores
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Advance Retail Sales: Department Stores
RSDSELD
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSSM4529USS), retrieved from FRED.