There is no "one true inflation" but there are certainly better ways to look at it than CPI. For one get rid of all the hedonic adjustment nonsense, stop moving the goal posts by changing basket composition, and focus on small group of food, housing, and transportation. If you do that you are going to get a hell of a lot higher than 5%
There’s no one answer or methodology that answers all needs. CPI isn’t perfect but does capture a consistent and balanced view of inflation.
I know for my family, the only significant inflation factor is food. I have a short commute and fixed mortgage. For my family members who live in the exurbs, fuel costs are very impactful.
Rural inflation isn’t captured well because rural areas have been depopulating.
It's only been over 5% since July, not YTD: https://ycharts.com/indicators/us_inflation_rate