Retail Sales: Department Stores
Not Seasonally Adjusted
SM4522USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
2,921.00
Year-over-Year Change
-4.57%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks U.S. retail sales data without seasonal adjustments. This provides a raw, unfiltered view of consumer spending trends that is valuable for economic analysis and forecasting.
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 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' retail sales data represents the raw, unadjusted sales figures reported by U.S. retailers. Unlike seasonally adjusted data, this series does not attempt to smooth out regular annual patterns, providing a more direct representation of actual consumer behavior.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service firms.
Historical Context
Retail sales are a key indicator of consumer demand and economic health, informing policy decisions and market analysis.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' series provides a more volatile but unfiltered view of sales trends.
- Analysts use this data to identify turning points in the business cycle.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' series tracks raw, unadjusted U.S. retail sales data, providing a direct view of consumer spending patterns.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This unfiltered data is valuable for identifying true shifts in consumer behavior and can inform economic forecasts and policy decisions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service firms across the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales are a key indicator of consumer demand, making this data relevant for policymakers and market analysts assessing the health of the economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The 'Not Seasonally Adjusted' data is released on the same schedule as the overall retail sales report, with a typical one-month lag.
Related Trends
Retail Sales: Used Merchandise Stores
MRTSSM45330USN
Retail Sales: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
MRTSSM448USN
Monthly State Retail Sales: Electronics and Appliance Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA443
Retailers Inventories
RETAILIMSA
Retail Sales: Retail Trade, Excluding Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
MRTSSM4400AUSS
Retail Sales: Shoe Stores
MRTSSM4482USN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Not Seasonally Adjusted (SM4522USN), retrieved from FRED.