U.S. Census: About

This is what you'll find in the different tabs on the top of this guide:

• Decennial Census: finding data from the censuses that have been conducted in the USA every ten years since 1790.
• Surveys Intercensal Years: finding data gathered between the decennial censuses. For example, ACS
• Guides: companion information for getting the most out of the Census data resources: terminology, geography, etc.

What is the U.S. Census? Why is it important?

• Constitutional requirement that every person in nation be counted at least once every 10 years beginning in 1790;
• Primary purpose of the census is to provide population counts for reapportionment in determining number of representatives in the House of Representatives;
• Primary source of data for small geographic areas;
• Many Federal programs distribute funds based upon data from the census, i.e., population, income and employment.