Retailers Sales
Percent Change, Not Seasonally Adjusted
RETAILMPCSMNSA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-4.80
Year-over-Year Change
-21.31%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The 'Percent Change, Not Seasonally Adjusted' trend measures the month-over-month change in nominal retail sales. This metric provides insight into consumer spending patterns and broader economic conditions.
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 non-seasonally adjusted retail sales metric tracks the relative change in nominal retail and food services sales compared to the prior month. It is a key indicator of consumer demand and an important signal for economists and policymakers monitoring the health of the U.S. economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of retail and food service businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely watched by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to gauge consumer behavior and inform economic policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of total consumer spending in the U.S.
- Consumer spending makes up nearly 70% of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP).
- The 'Percent Change, Not Seasonally Adjusted' trend does not adjust for typical seasonal fluctuations in retail activity.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the month-over-month percent change in nominal retail and food services sales in the United States, without adjusting for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides insight into the health of consumer demand and can signal broader economic conditions. It is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
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: Retail sales figures are an important input for the Federal Reserve and other institutions when making decisions about monetary policy and assessing the overall state of the economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The 'Percent Change, Not Seasonally Adjusted' data is published monthly, with a typical release lag of around two weeks after the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change, Not Seasonally Adjusted (RETAILMPCSMNSA), retrieved from FRED.