Finding Your Way Through Census Bureau Geographies

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Finding Your Way Through Census Bureau Geographies

January 26, 2023

Description

Explore 5 different types of Census Bureau geographies by learning their backgrounds; when and where to access data associated with them; and how to manipulate data.census.gov to locate these geographies quickly. We will take a look at the history and the logic behind the following Census Bureau geographies: (1) Census Tract, (2) Tribal Areas, (3) Congressional Districts, (4) School Districts, and (5) Public-Use Microdata Areas. This is an interactive training, and we will break attendees into "rooms" in order to participate as groups in hands-on exercises.

Webinar Materials

Presentation [1 MB]

Transcript [< 1.0 MB]

Question and Answer [< 1.0 MB]

Class Exercises [< 1.0 MB]

Prerequisite: Review

How to Use the GEOCORR to Identify Geographies That Make Up Your Area

Whether you are looking for estimates for the nation or a population count for your city block, geography is a critical element to using Census data.

Optional

What Are Census Blocks?

In this Data Gem, we will take you on a field trip around a Census Block, discuss its features, and show you how to select blocks when accessing data.

How to Conduct an “Address Search” to Access Data for Your Location

In this Data Gem you will learn how to use an address to identify all the geographic levels that include your location or organization.

How to Select Your Area to Access Data Using data.census.gov

Learn three easy ways to select your area on data.census.gov.

What is a Census Tract? Making Sense of Census Geography

If want to access data for parts of your community, Census Tracts are the way to go.

What is a CDP? Making Sense of Census Geography

Working with census geography can be confusing. If you need to access data for cities and towns, it is important to learn more about CDPs.

What is a ZCTA? Making Sense of Census Geography

The Census Bureau does not produce population data at the Zip Code level, but rather by its own Zip Code Tabluation Areas, or "ZCTA." So how does it work?