Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted
This dataset tracks percent change, seasonally adjusted over time.
Latest Value
1.40
Year-over-Year Change
-300.00%
Date Range
4/1/2009 - 1/1/2025
Summary
The 'Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted' economic trend measures the monthly percentage change in retail and food services sales, 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 month-over-month percent change in total U.S. retail and food service sales, adjusted for seasonal variations. It is a vital gauge of consumer demand and a leading economic indicator used by policymakers and analysts to assess the health of the broader economy.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and aggregates monthly retail sales data from a representative sample of businesses.
Historical Context
Retail sales are closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- The percent change in retail sales is a leading indicator of GDP growth.
- Consumer spending drives approximately 70% of U.S. economic activity.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted' metric tracks the monthly percentage change in total U.S. retail and food services sales.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales are a key indicator of consumer demand and economic health, making this trend essential for policymakers, economists, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects and aggregates monthly retail sales data from a representative sample of businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a typical 2-week delay between the reference period and the public release.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change, Seasonally Adjusted (REV62APSA), retrieved from FRED.