U.S. Retail Sales Rise 0.5% in April, Led by Higher Gas Prices

The U.S. Census Bureau reported a 0.5% monthly increase in retail and food services sales for April 2026. Year-over-year sales grew by 4.9%. The results matched economist forecasts. The Bureau revised March sales to a 1.6% gain.

Gasoline station sales rose 2.8% as energy prices climbed. Nonstore retailers recorded a 1.1% increase. Furniture store sales fell 2%. Clothing store sales declined 1.5%.

The retail control group used for GDP calculations rose 0.5%. Consumer spending remains solid despite inflationary pressures. Spending patterns indicate a shift toward necessities over big-ticket discretionary items. The report signals continued resilience for companies in the XLY ETF.