LibGuides: COM 390: Communication Research Methods: Accessing Census Data

Census Data

Decennial Census of Population and Housing
Probably what you are accustomed to calling "The Census." The U.S. Census counts every resident in the United States. It is mandated by Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution and takes place every 10 years.
American Community Survey
A mandatory, ongoing statistical survey that provides data every year. It gives communities the current information they need to plan investments and services.
Economic Census
The Economic Census is the U.S. Government's official five-year measure of American business and the economy.
Census of Governments
Identifies the scope and nature of the nation's state and local government sector including public finance and public employment and classifications.
Economic Indicators
The Census Bureau releases fourteen different reports on key economic indicators. Each indicator is released on a specific schedule.

[This box is drawn from the Census Bureau website's feature "What Data We Collect & When."]

American Fact Finder
Fact Finder is the main gateway for Census information. Drawn from several CB surveys.
Census Quick Facts
Fast, easy access to one page summaries of facts drawn from multiple CB surveys about people, business, and geography.
Population Finder
Detailed profiles drawn from the Decennial Census.
Census 2010
Main page for Census 2010

Social Explorer
This is the free (limited access) version of a subscription resource. Social Explorer provides quick and easy access to current and historical census data and demographic information. The easy-to-use web interface lets users create maps and reports to illustrate, analyze, and understand demography and social change.
Census Scope
The Social Science Data Analysis Network (SSDAN) is a University of michigan-based organization that creates demographic media, such as user guides, web sites, and hands-on classroom computer materials that make U.S. census data accessible to educators, policymakers, and citizens.

Census Reference Page
Glossary and other information from the Census Bureau
ACS: When to use 1-year, 3-year, or 5-year Estimates
This helpful chart looks at the pros/cons of using different ACS estimates
FactFinder Guide
This excellent guide from Baruch College librarian Frank Donnelly outlines how to search FactFinder. It includes clear directions and screenshots.
Accessing State & County Quick Facts
Do you need quick and easy access to a broad range of statistics for a specific location? QuickFacts is a great resource for quick access to statistics available on people, places and our economy.
"Just the Facts, Ma'am. Getting Started with the US Census and American FactFinder"
From the "Help! I’m an Accidental Government Information Librarian" series