Retirees' cost of living rises 3.3% as CPI-E outpaces Social Security COLA

13 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Apr 29

Through March, the CPI-E for retirees climbed nearly 3.3% year over year, while Social Security's 2026 COLA was only 2.8%.
Rising costs for gas, food, transportation, and housing are driving the increase, with healthcare also a significant factor. The COLA adjustment added about $58 to the average monthly benefit.
Over five years, the CPI-E has risen 25%, highlighting how COLA shortfalls accumulate. Retirees are encouraged to seek higher-yield investments and review Medicare options to offset inflation's impact.

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