Retail Sales Rose 0.3 Percent in May Despite Pressure From Higher Inflation and Interest Rates

A customer checks prices while shopping at a retail store in Vernon Hills, Ill., on June 12, 2023. Nam Y. Huh/AP Photo

NEW YORK—Americans increased their spending at retailers last month despite pressure from still-high inflation and rising borrowing costs.

Thursday’s report from the Commerce Department showed that retail sales rose 0.3 percent from April to May, boosted by stronger sales of auto and parts dealers.