U.S. Retail Sales Monthly Report: August 2026
Released September 25, 2026
Unlike Census Bureau estimates, the Retail Monitor is powered by real, anonymized credit and debit card transaction data, offering timely and reliable insights without the need for monthly or annual revisions.
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CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Report August
Core vs Total U.S. Retail Sales August 2026
The Retail Monitor calculation of core retail sales was up 0.17% month over month and 3.47% year over year.
Total retail sales excludes autos and gas to reduce volatility, offering a broad view of consumer spending.
Core retail sales exclude (in addition to auto and gas) restaurants, providing a clearer picture of demand for retail goods.
Unlike Census Bureau estimates, the Retail Monitor is powered by real, anonymized credit and debit card transaction data, offering timely and reliable insights without the need for monthly or annual revisions.
Want to learn more about the Retail Monitor?
Browse NRF's retail sales insights
May 13, 2026
CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Grew in April Despite High Gas Prices and Sustained Inflation
Retail sales rose for the seventh consecutive month in April even as gas prices rose and inflation remained stubborn, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions.
Apr 14, 2026
CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Grew in March As Tax Refunds Offset Rising Gas Prices
Retail sales rose again in March as consumers received higher-than-usual tax refunds that made up for increased gasoline prices, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions.
Affinity Solutions (Affinity) is the leading consumer purchase insights company. We provide a complete view of U.S. and U.K. consumer spending, across and between brands, via exclusive access to fully permissioned data from over 150 million debit and credit cards. This data is transformed into privacy-compliant, actionable intelligence for marketers, consultancies, and financial services companies to drive strategic growth and lasting customer relationships. Visit us at affinitysolutions.com to discover how we’re shaping the future of consumer purchase insights.
NRF's Center for Retail and Consumer Insights (CRCI) is committed to innovation and progress through our content and insights. To learn more, visit our homepage or email us at crci@nrf.com