Pullman Sees One of State's Steepest Retail Sales Declines in Q3 2025

Whitman County's economy dipped over 6% as Pullman's sales dropped by over 8% year-over-year.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

According to new data from the Washington Department of Revenue, the City of Pullman experienced the second largest drop in retail sales in the state during the third quarter of 2025, with sales declining over 8% compared to the previous year. This drove Whitman County's overall economy to dip just over 6% during the same period.

Why it matters

Pullman has seen several business closures in recent years, including a building supply store and a movie theater complex, contributing to the economic slowdown. The data highlights the challenges facing Pullman's local economy, which relies heavily on retail sales and consumer spending.

The details

Pullman's economic activity dropped by over $14 million year-over-year to just over $188 million during the third quarter of 2025. This was the second largest decline in the state, behind only nearby Columbia County, the second smallest county in Washington. Statewide, taxable retail sales in Washington increased nearly 4% during the same quarter compared to the previous year.

  • The data is from the third quarter of 2025.
  • The report was released on February 18, 2026.

The players

Washington Department of Revenue

The state agency that released the detailed retail sales numbers based on sales tax revenue for the third quarter of 2025.

Pullman

The City of Pullman, which experienced the second largest drop in retail sales in the state during the third quarter of 2025.

Whitman County

The county where Pullman is located, which saw its overall economy dip just over 6% during the third quarter of 2025.

Columbia County

The second smallest county in Washington, which saw the largest economic decline by percentage during the third quarter of 2025.

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The takeaway

The steep decline in retail sales in Pullman highlights the economic challenges facing the city, which has seen several business closures in recent years. The data underscores the importance of supporting local businesses and diversifying the economy to withstand fluctuations in consumer spending.