Sales: Retail Trade: Car Registration: Passenger Cars for United States
Growth rate same period previous year, Monthly
USASLRTCR03GYSAM • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-5.19
Year-over-Year Change
-26.11%
Date Range
1/1/1960 - 4/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the year-over-year growth rate in real retail 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
The growth rate same period previous year for real retail sales provides insight into the strength and momentum of consumer demand. It is a widely followed metric for economists and policymakers assessing the state of the U.S. economy.
Methodology
This data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on monthly retail sales reports.
Historical Context
The retail sales growth rate is used to inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 30% of total U.S. consumer spending.
- The highest year-over-year growth rate was 18.7% in May 2021.
- Retail sales declined during the COVID-19 pandemic but have since rebounded.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the year-over-year growth rate in real (inflation-adjusted) retail sales, which is a key indicator of consumer spending and economic activity in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The retail sales growth rate is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market participants as it provides insights into the strength of consumer demand and the overall health of the U.S. economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau based on monthly retail sales reports.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The retail sales growth rate is used by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to inform monetary policy decisions and assessments of the economic outlook.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly with a typical lag of around two weeks from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Growth rate same period previous year, Monthly (USASLRTCR03GYSAM), retrieved from FRED.