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Common Shareholders' Equity (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010 | Dec. 31, 2009
Repurchase program |  |  |
Amount | $ 62,294 | $ 52,827 | $ 33,585
Common share repurchase authorization | On November 17, 2009, the Board of Directors of U.S. Cellular authorized the repurchase of up to 1,300,000 Common Shares on an annual basis beginning in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter, on a cumulative basis. These purchases will be made pursuant to open market purchases, block purchases, private purchases, or otherwise, depending on market prices and other conditions. This authorization does not have an expiration date. |  |
Treasury Shares |  |  |
Repurchase program |  |  |
Amount | 62,294 | 52,827 | 33,585
Common Shares |  |  |
Common stockholders' equity, other disclosures |  |  |
Voting rights | 25% |  |
Repurchase program |  |  |
Number of shares acquired | 1,276,000 | 1,235,000 | 887,000
Average cost per share | $ 48.82 | $ 42.76 | $ 37.86
Amount | $ 62,294 | $ 52,827 | $ 33,585
Common share repurchase authorization | On November 17, 2009, the Board of Directors of U.S. Cellular authorized the repurchase of up to 1,300,000 Common Shares on an annual basis beginning in 2009 and continuing each year thereafter, on a cumulative basis. These purchases will be made pursuant to open market purchases, block purchases, private purchases, or otherwise, depending on market prices and other conditions. |  |
Repurchase authorization, additional number of shares | 1,300,000 |  |
Repurchase expiration | This authorization does not have an expiration date. |  |
Common Shares | 401(k) |  |  |
Common stockholders' equity, other disclosures |  |  |
Shares reserved | 67,215 |  |
Common Shares | Treasury Shares |  |  |
Common stockholders' equity, other disclosures |  |  |
Shares reissued | 286,211 | 241,954 | 147,414
Series A Common Shares |  |  |
Common stockholders' equity, other disclosures |  |  |
Voting rights | 75% |  |

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