Monthly State Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA446 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
8.90
Year-over-Year Change
140.54%
Date Range
1/1/2019 - 4/1/2025
Summary
The Monthly State Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores in the United States measures consumer spending at health and personal care stores across the country. This metric is a key indicator of consumer demand and economic activity in the retail sector.
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 dollar value of retail sales at establishments primarily engaged in retailing health and personal care merchandise, such as drug stores, pharmacies, and cosmetics stores. It serves as an important signal of consumer confidence and spending patterns.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of retail businesses.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the health of the retail industry and make informed decisions.
Key Facts
- Health and personal care stores account for over $300 billion in annual retail sales.
- Sales at these stores have grown steadily over the past decade.
- The metric is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This metric measures the dollar value of retail sales at establishments primarily engaged in selling health and personal care products, such as drug stores, pharmacies, and cosmetics stores.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend is an important indicator of consumer demand and economic activity in the retail sector, providing insights into consumer spending patterns and the overall health of the economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of retail businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this metric to assess the performance of the retail industry and make informed decisions about economic policies and interventions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly, with a typical lag of around two months from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly State Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores in the United States (MSRSUSA446), retrieved from FRED.