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Topics
Data & Maps
Surveys & Programs
Resource Library
What We Do
What We Do
Our Mission
The Census Bureau's mission is to serve as the nation’s leading provider of quality data about its people and economy.
Our Authority
The Census Bureau operates under Title 13 and Title 26 of the U.S. Code.
Our Goal
Our goal is to provide the best mix of timeliness, relevancy, quality and cost for the data we collect and services we provide.
At a Glance
What Data We Collect & When
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Decennial Census of Population and HousingThe 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.
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Economic CensusThe Economic Census is the official five-year measure of American businesses providing comprehensive statistics at the national, state, and local levels. Follow the 2022 Economic Census release schedule for additional information.
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Census of GovernmentsIdentifies the scope and nature of the nation's state and local government sector including public finance and public employment and classifications.
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American Community Survey (ACS)The American Community Survey is the premier source for information about America's changing population, housing and workforce.
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Our Surveys & ProgramsOur surveys provide periodic and comprehensive statistics about the nation. This data is critical for government programs, policies, and decision-making.
How Our Data Are Used
To determine the distribution of Congressional seats to states
- Mandated by the U.S. Constitution
- Used to apportion seats in the U.S. House of Representatives
- Used to define legislature districts, school district assignment areas and other important functional areas of government
Find out about the 2020 Census Redistricting Data Program
To make planning decisions about community services
Such as where to:
- Provide services for the elderly
- Build new roads and schools
- Locate job training centers
To inform how trillions of dollars in federal funds are distributed to local, state and tribal governments each year
Census data informs how states and communities allocate funding for:
- Neighborhood improvements
- Public health
- Education
- Transportation
- Much more
To learn more, read the report Uses of Decennial Census Programs Data in Federal Funds Distribution: Fiscal Year 2021.
To provide Age Search information
The Age Search service provides information for:
- Qualifying for Social Security and other retirement benefits
- Passport applications
- Proving relationship in settling estates
- Researching family history or a historical topic
Other Activities
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Modernizing Federal Statistics at the U.S. Census BureauLearn how we are leveraging 21st century technology and data science to transform our nation’s statistical infrastructure.
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Advancing Equity with DataThe Census Bureau is committed to producing data that depict an accurate portrait of America, including its underserved communities.
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Combining DataThe Census Bureau reuses data from other agencies to cut the cost of data collection and to reduce the burden on people who respond to our censuses and surveys.
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Evidence-Based Decision-Making at the Census BureauLearn how we support evidence-building across government, how we measure the effectiveness of our own work, and how we’re implementing the Evidence Act.
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Data Linkage InfrastructureOur Data Linkage Infrastructure is transforming data discovery and fueling innovative research.
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Internships and FellowshipsLearn about and search for internships and full-time opportunities for students and recent graduates.
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International Programs CenterThe U.S. Census Bureau conducts demographic, economic, & geographic studies of other countries & strengthens statistical development around the world.
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Respond to RequestsThis is our Frequently Asked Questions site. Start here to check if your question has already been answered.
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Research to Improve Data on Race and EthnicityLearn more about Census Bureau's ongoing history of conducting research to improve questions and data on race and ethnicity.
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What Are Synthetic Data?Synthetic Data means combining data, often from multiple sources, to produce estimates for more granular populations than any one source can support.
Related Information
Page Last Revised - March 25, 2024
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