Retail sales in the U.S. jumped last month, more than expected, to a five-month high as falling gasoline prices sparked increased consumer buying, the Census Bureau said Wednesday.

Compared with January's tepid activity, February's numbers jumped by 1.1 percent to $421.4 billion. Compared with February of 2012 these estimates show a more dramatic increase of 4.6 percent, a five-month high.

Auto and other motor vehicle dealers were up 8.8 percent from February 2012 while nonstore retailers were up 15.7 percent.

As gasoline price hikes slowed, sales numbers from auto part retailers and gas stations showed strong figures. Weaker areas were electronics stores, sporting goods stores and department stores.

To contact the editor, e-mail: