Retail Sales: Pharmacies and Drug Stores
MRTSSM44611USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
33,398.00
Year-over-Year Change
12.81%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Pharmacies and Drug Stores trend measures consumer spending at drugstores and pharmacies, providing insights into consumer demand and 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
This indicator tracks monthly sales at establishments primarily engaged in retailing prescription or nonprescription drugs and medicines, and other health and personal care items. It is a key gauge of consumer spending and an important economic indicator for policymakers and analysts.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of retail establishments by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Historical Context
Retail sales data is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other institutions to assess consumer behavior and the overall economic climate.
Key Facts
- Drugstores and pharmacies account for over $300 billion in annual U.S. retail sales.
- Retail sales at pharmacies grew by 4.2% in 2021 compared to the previous year.
- The pharmacy and drug store sector employs over 1 million people in the United States.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Pharmacies and Drug Stores trend measures consumer spending at establishments primarily engaged in retailing prescription drugs, medicines, and other health and personal care items.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This indicator provides insights into consumer demand and the overall health of the economy, as spending at pharmacies and drugstores is an important component of total retail sales.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail establishments conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales data, including pharmacy and drugstore sales, is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers to assess consumer behavior and the overall economic climate.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The retail sales data is published monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a typical release lag of around two weeks after the end of the reporting period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Pharmacies and Drug Stores (MRTSSM44611USN), retrieved from FRED.