CPI-W (Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers)

The CPI-W, or Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, measures the average change in prices over time for goods and services commonly purchased by employed urban workers and clerical staff. It reflects inflation experienced by this group, tracking costs like housing, transportation, food, and healthcare. The CPI-W is often used to determine adjustments for wages, pensions, and Social Security benefits, ensuring they keep pace with changing living expenses. In essence, it provides a snapshot of how prices affecting everyday urban workers evolve, helping people and policymakers understand inflation’s impact on their purchasing power.