US retail sales grew for the seventh consecutive month in April, even as gas prices climbed and inflation continued to weigh on consumers, according to new data from the National Retail Federation (NRF).

“Retail sales continued to grow in April despite higher gas prices driven by the ongoing conflict in Iran, cautious consumer sentiment, and persistent concerns about sustained inflation,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Spending on household priorities remains solid, supported by a steady labor market, wage growth, and a significant influx of cash from tax refunds.”

Total retail sales, excluding auto dealers and gas stations, rose 0.34% month over month on a seasonally adjusted basis and 5.73% unadjusted year over year in April. The figures represent a slight slowdown from March, when sales were up 0.4% month over month and 6.59% year over year.

Core retail sales—which also exclude restaurants—mirrored that trend: April's month-over-month increase was 0.34% and year over year was 5.53% , compared with gains of 0.41% and 7.05%, respectively, in March. For the first 4 months of the year combined, total sales are up 6.07% and core sales up 5.99% on a year-over-year basis.

Eight of 9 retail categories posted year-over-year gains in April. Here are specifics from key sectors, seasonally adjusted from last month and unadjusted compared to last year:

• Clothing and accessories stores were up 0.59% from last month and up 9.75% compared to last year.

• Sporting goods, hobby, music and book stores were up 0.12% from last month and up 8.55% compared to last year.

• Health and personal care stores were up 0.45% from last month and up 8.42% compared to last year.

• Digital products (such as electronic books and games) were up 1.11% from last month and up 8.09% compared to last year.

• General merchandise stores were up 0.15% from last month and up 6.19% compared to last year.

• Electronics and appliance stores were up 0.16% from last month and up 4.03% compared to last year.

• Grocery and beverage stores were up 0.36% from last month and up 3.21% compared to last year.

• Furniture and home furnishings stores were down 0.06% from last month but up 2.58% compared to last year.

• Building and garden supply stores were up 0.09% from last month but down 2.74% compared to last year.