U.S. retail sales rose 1.7% month-over-month in March 2026, marking a sharp acceleration from February’s 0.6% gain, according to data updated on 21 April 2026. The latest reading underscores a notable pickup in consumer spending momentum as the first quarter drew to a close.
The March figure, measured on a month-over-month basis, reflects how retail activity strengthened compared with February 2026, when sales had already posted a moderate increase versus the prior month. The improvement from 0.6% to 1.7% suggests households stepped up purchases across the retail sector, hinting at robust underlying demand.
With March’s stronger performance building on February’s growth, the data indicate that consumer spending—traditionally a key driver of the U.S. economy—remained resilient moving into spring 2026, potentially setting a firmer tone for overall economic activity in the coming months.
