Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted
RSXFSN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
643,681.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.08%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
The 'Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted' trend measures the total value of retail sales in the United States. This key economic indicator provides insights into consumer spending patterns and can inform policy decisions.
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 series tracks the total dollar value of retail and food services sales each month, without adjusting for seasonal variations. It serves as an important gauge of consumer demand and overall economic activity.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service establishments in the United States.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers closely monitor retail sales to assess the health of the consumer sector and broader economy.
Key Facts
- Retail sales account for nearly 70% of U.S. economic activity.
- Consumer spending drives over two-thirds of the U.S. GDP.
- The data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The 'Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted' trend measures the total value of retail and food services sales in the United States each month, without adjusting for seasonal variations.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This indicator provides valuable insights into consumer spending patterns and the overall health of the U.S. economy, which is critical information for policymakers, businesses, and investors.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of retail and food service establishments in the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers closely monitor retail sales data to assess the strength of consumer demand and inform decisions on monetary and fiscal policies.
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 around two weeks from the end of the reporting period.
Related Trends
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RSGASS
Monthly State Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores in the United States
MSRSUSA452
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
MRTSIR448USS
Monthly State Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers in the United States
MSRSUSA441
Retail Sales: Retail Trade and Food Services, Excluding Gasoline Stations
MRTSSM44Z72USS
Retail Sales: All Other General Merchandise Stores
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Millions of Dollars, Not Seasonally Adjusted (RSXFSN), retrieved from FRED.