The U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) collects detailed social, economic, housing, and demographic data. These data can be useful for nonprofits of all sizes throughout the country.

Explore the links below to learn more about the ACS through presentations, handbooks, and other resources, or how to find ACS data using Census tools. You can also check out frequently asked questions or contact us for more information on ACS data.

The ACS produces population and housing data on over 40 different topics, many of which are regularly used by nonprofits and for related projects. Examples of these subjects include: 

• Age; Sex
• Computer and Internet Use
• Disability Status
• Educational Attainment and School Enrollment
• Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Health Insurance Coverage
• Language Spoken at Home
• Occupants per Room
• Poverty Status
• Race and Hispanic or Latino Origin
• Tenure (Owner/Renter)
• Vehicles Available

The ACS Information Guide provides an overview of the history of the ACS, its data collection process, data topics, and more. The ACS Handbook for All Data Users provides a deeper dive than the Information Guide and also includes case studies for using the ACS. The ACS Data Tools and Resources Flyer showcases ways to access ACS data. We conducted a webinar dedicated to sharing details on how nonprofits can use ACS data to access critical data regarding the communities and populations they serve. 

Check out our FAQs, request a training or assistance with a local Data Dissemination Specialist, or contact us to learn more.