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Common Share Repurchases (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Repurchase program      
Amount $ 20,045 $ 62,294 $ 52,827
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 20,045 62,294 52,827
Common Shares
      
Common stockholders' equity, other disclosures      
Voting rights, board of directors 25%    
Repurchase program      
Number of shares acquired 571,000 1,276,000 1,235,000
Average cost per share $ 35.11 $ 48.82 $ 42.76
Amount $ 20,045 $ 62,294 $ 52,827
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 182,195 286,211 241,954
Series A Common Shares
      
Common stockholders' equity, other disclosures      
Voting rights, board of directors 75%