The U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 1.5% in the spring, a modest slowdown from the previous quarter, though consumer spending accelerated, according to the Commerce Department.
Key facts
- U.S. GDP grew at an annual rate of 1.5% in the spring quarter.
- The figure represents a modest slowdown from the previous quarter.
- Consumer spending picked up steam despite the overall slowdown.
- The data comes from the Commerce Department.
- NPR reported the figures on July 30, 2026.
The U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 1.5% in the spring, according to the Commerce Department. The reading marks a modest slowdown from the pace recorded in the previous quarter, NPR reported.
Despite that easing in overall growth, consumer spending picked up steam during the period. That continued willingness of Americans to spend stood out against the backdrop of the broader slowdown.
NPR summarized the picture simply: the economy slowed some, but Americans continued to spend. The combination points to households remaining active even as the wider expansion cooled.
The GDP figures were released as other major news developments unfolded. President Trump said a deal had been reached for Hamas to completely disarm and for Israeli forces to withdraw from Gaza, according to NPR’s reporting.
The Commerce Department’s quarterly report is one of the most closely watched measures of the country’s economic health, tracking the total output of goods and services on an annualized basis. The spring reading offers a snapshot of where the economy stood during the quarter.
Why it matters
Gross domestic product is a key gauge of the nation's economic health, and a slowdown to 1.5% growth signals cooling momentum. But continued consumer spending — a major driver of the U.S. economy — suggests households are still supporting activity, a mixed signal for policymakers and businesses.
Frequently asked questions
How fast did the U.S. economy grow in the spring?
The U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 1.5% in the spring, according to the Commerce Department.
Did consumer spending fall along with the slowdown?
No. Even though overall growth slowed modestly, consumer spending picked up steam during the quarter, according to NPR.
Where do these economic figures come from?
The GDP figures were reported by the Commerce Department and covered by NPR on July 30, 2026.