CPI-U
The US consumer price index for all urban consumers, the most-quoted US measure.
2 min read · Reviewed September 2026
In plain words
CPI-U covers about 93% of the US population — everyone living in urban areas. It's the headline inflation figure quoted by US media, used for Social Security adjustments and Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS).
Frequently asked questions
What is CPI-U used for in the US?
CPI-U is used to adjust Social Security payments, Federal pension benefits, and Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS). It is the headline figure quoted in US financial news.