September U.S. Retail Sales Rise 0.8 Percent As Gas Costs Surge
U.S. retail sales rose 0.8% in September, the Commerce Department reported, with a surge in gasoline spending accounting for much of the gain.[1]
Retail sales excluding gas stations increased just 0.2% in September, while receipts at gas stations jumped 6.4%.[1] Higher pump prices pushed the average price for regular gasoline to $4.33 per gallon on Thursday, October 15, up from under $3 before the Iran war.
The Consumer Price Index rose 3.7% year-over-year in September and climbed 0.6% month-to-month, the largest monthly gain in five months. The Commerce Department also revised August retail sales to a 1.3% gain, leaving a two-month stretch of solid outlays but with gasoline accounting for much of the momentum.[1]
Economists estimate consumer spending is on track for a 3.3% annualized gain in the third quarter but say growth will likely slow in the months ahead as higher prices erode households' buying power.
Show source details & analysis (1 source)
📌 Key Facts
- Commerce Department reported U.S. retail sales increased 0.8% in September 2026 after a revised 1.3% gain in August.
- Retail sales excluding gas stations rose 0.2% in September, while gas station sales jumped 6.4%.
- The Consumer Price Index rose 3.7% year-over-year in September and 0.6% month-over-month, the largest monthly gain in five months.
- AAA said average regular gasoline reached $4.33 per gallon on Thursday, October 15, 2026, up from under $3 before the Iran war.
- Economists estimate consumer spending is on track for a 3.3% annualized gain in the third quarter but expect slower growth ahead.
📰 Source Timeline (1)
Follow how coverage of this story developed over time