Living Pattern Survey
The Living Pattern Survey asks Service Members which local stores they shop in and how much (the percentage) they buy from the Commissary and Exchange. For example, the Living Pattern Survey may show that Service Members typically buy half their clothing in local stores (with foreign currency) and half at the exchange (with U.S. dollars). Using information from the Living Pattern Survey, price collectors in many overseas locations conduct a market basket survey (Retail Price Schedule) each year, pricing about 120 goods and services. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Senior Airman Sadie Colbert)