Retail Sales: Building Materials and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSSM444USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
40,268.00
Year-over-Year Change
-0.30%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic indicator tracks monthly retail sales in the United States, measuring the dollar value of merchandise sold by retailers. It is a key measure of consumer spending and a vital gauge of economic health.
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, Seasonally Adjusted trend reports the total monthly sales, in millions of dollars, for a broad range of retail establishments in the U.S. It is seasonally adjusted to account for predictable variations throughout the year.
Methodology
Data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are closely watched by policymakers, economists, and investors as an important indicator of consumer demand and broader economic activity.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for about 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- The retail sales report is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Seasonally adjusted data removes predictable variations like holiday shopping seasons.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This indicator tracks the total monthly sales, in millions of dollars, made by a broad range of retail establishments across the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Retail sales figures are a vital indicator of consumer demand and overall economic health, closely watched by policymakers, economists, and investors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail businesses conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data is used by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to assess the state of the economy and inform monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales report is released monthly by the Census Bureau, with a short delay to allow for data collection and processing.
Related Trends
Advance Retail Sales: Nonstore Retailers
RSNSR
Advance Retail Sales: Food Services and Drinking Places
RSFSDPN
Monthly State Retail Sales: Miscellaneous Store Retailers in the United States
MSRSUSA453
Retail Sales: Department Stores
MPCSM45221USN
Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Gasoline Stations
MARTSSM44Z72USS
Retail Sales: Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores
MRTSSM442USN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSSM444USS), retrieved from FRED.