Real consumer spending in the United States decelerated in the first quarter of 2026, rising by 1.6% compared with a 1.9% increase in the previous quarter. The latest figure, updated on 30 April 2026, marks a slight moderation from the pace recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The easing from 1.9% to 1.6% suggests that while consumer demand continued to expand, the momentum entering 2026 was somewhat weaker than at the end of last year. As real consumer spending is a key driver of U.S. economic activity, the softer growth rate may indicate a more cautious household sector amid evolving economic conditions.
Analysts and market participants will be watching forthcoming data closely to determine whether this slowdown is temporary or the beginning of a more sustained moderation in consumer-driven growth as 2026 progresses.
