US retail sales rise 0.4% in September to $705.9 billion on autos and fuel

US retail sales increased 0.4% month-on-month in September 2025 to $705.9 billion, led by stronger auto and gasoline purchases. Core retail sales, excluding autos and fuel, were up 0.2%. The data underscored consumer resilience despite high borrowing costs. Year-on-year, sales rose 2.7%. Economists expect consumption to moderate in Q4 as credit conditions tighten but note labor-market stability continues to support spending momentum.