Retail Sales Drop to $582 Billion in January After Holiday Surge
U.S. retail sales fell to $582.1 billion in January 2026, down 18.8% from December's $716.9 billion holiday peak but within normal seasonal patterns.
The U.S. Census Bureau reports retail and food services sales totaled $582.1 billion in January 2026, a sharp drop from December's $716.9 billion but consistent with the annual post-holiday correction.
Monthly Retail Sales (Not Seasonally Adjusted)
| Month | Sales (Billions) |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | $582.1 |
| December 2025 | $716.9 |
| November 2025 | $640.2 |
| October 2025 | $642.3 |
| September 2025 | $611.3 |
| August 2025 | $640.8 |
The January decline of $134.8 billion (18.8%) from December is a predictable seasonal pattern driven by the end of holiday shopping. Comparing year-over-year provides a clearer picture of underlying consumer strength.
Notably, December 2025 sales of $716.9 billion represent the strongest holiday season on record in nominal terms, suggesting consumers remained willing to spend despite elevated interest rates.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau via FRED, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.