In-Class Handout
- HandoutThis handout will help you find and organize data for your assignment.
Social Explorer
- Social ExplorerAn online research tool providing current and historical census data and demographic information. NOTE: this database allows only five people from USU to use it at a time. You may set up your own, free account that will be good for 30 days.
Open U.S. Census Data
The U.S. Census Bureau has collected and summarized data every 10 years since 1790. While questions have changed, this resource provides a continual look at the U.S. population.
In print:
United States. Census (1790-1990)
Gov Docs, Lower Level C 3.240/7
Broken down by State, good if your city is smaller
Online:
- SMSA City Code 1970 CensusThe Census Bureau assigns Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area (SMSA) codes to urban areas. They help researchers identify relevant information in Census Data. To find your city code, 1) Find your city at this link, 2) Search Social Explorer by SMSA code 3011 to get data for metro area. 3) Search again by "all SMSa's (balance) to get data outside city limits. Subtract step 3 from step 2 to get the city data.
- American Fact FinderAccess to 2010 Census
Statistics Abstract of the United States
The Statistical Abstract of the United States provides an authoritative and comprehensive summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic conditions of the United States. Detailed, monthly data is available from 2013 to present online. Historic data is available in print.
In print:
Statistical Abstract of the United States (1941-2012)
Gov Docs Lower Level, C 3.134
Online:
- Statistical Abstracts of the U.S.You can view data from 2013 to present online.
Other Resources to Understand Your City
- Census Quick FactsProvides current snapshot statistics for all states and counties, as well as for cities and towns with a population of 5,000 or more.
- NewspapersConsult the resources on this page to search local, national, and international newspapers for additional perspectives on your city.
- U.S. Migration DataMigration/Geographic Mobility refers to the movement of people within the United States from one location to another at various geographic levels.
