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How accurately does the CPI measure the changes in the cost-of-living? |
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In the truest sense of the term, the CPI is not a cost-of-living index. The CPI measures changes in the prices of goods and services, such as food and clothing, that are directly purchased in the marketplace; but a complete cost-of-living index would go beyond this to also take into account changes in other governmental or environmental factors that affect consumers' well-being. It is very difficult to determine the proper treatment of public goods, such as safety and education, and other broad concerns, such as health, water quality, and crime that would comprise a complete cost-of-living framework. |
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