U.S. Retail Sales Climb 1.7% in March 2026, Surpassing Estimates with Core Sales Up 1.9%
U.S. retail sales increased 1.7% month-over-month in March 2026, beating estimates of 1.4%, while core retail sales rose 1.9%. Pending home sales grew 1.5% month-over-month but fell 1.1% year-over-year. Used electric vehicle sales jumped 20% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the prior year.
rnz.co.nzU.S. retail sales increased 1.7% month-over-month in March 2026, beating estimates of 1.4%, while core retail sales rose 1.9%. Pending home sales grew 1.5% month-over-month but fell 1.1% year-over-year. Used electric vehicle sales jumped 20% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the prior year.
This marked the biggest gain in retail sales in three years, driven by higher gasoline prices and rising inflation.
Month-over-month pending home sales rose in the Northeast and South, but declined in the Midwest and West.
Year-over-year pending home sales rose in the South, and declined in the Northeast, Midwest and West.
An economist highlights pent-up demand, need for affordable inventory, and stronger Southern market activity.
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