Advance Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores
Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted
RSGMSN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
76,896.00
Year-over-Year Change
3.12%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the total value of retail sales in the United States, excluding seasonal adjustments. It provides insights into 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
The Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted trend represents the total dollar value of retail and food service sales across the U.S. The unadjusted data offers a raw view of consumer purchasing behavior without factoring in seasonal patterns.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service establishments.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers use this trend to analyze consumer confidence and the overall health of the U.S. economy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of total U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending drives over two-thirds of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP).
- The retail sales trend is a key indicator of near-term economic momentum.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the total value of retail sales across the United States, excluding seasonal adjustments. It provides insights into consumer spending and economic activity.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The retail sales trend is a crucial indicator of consumer confidence and the overall health of the U.S. economy, as consumer spending accounts for a large portion of economic activity.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail and food service establishments.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers use this trend to analyze consumer behavior and its impact on the broader economy, which informs economic policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical delay of a few weeks. The unadjusted nature of the data may not account for seasonal fluctuations.
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Advance Retail Sales: Health and Personal Care Stores
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Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Food and Beverage Stores
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Retailers Inventories
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted (RSGMSN), retrieved from FRED.