Consumer spending averaged $74 a day in March, roughly a 17% increase from the $63 a day average in February, according to a Gallup survey.

The self-reported consumption at retail and online stores, restaurants and gas pumps stand 16% higher when compared with March 2011, which averaged at $64 a day.

The study states that the warm weather of the Easter season and recent spikes in fuel prices may have been catalysts for increased spending.

For more information read the original Gallup report.

— Paul Dang