U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Skip Header


Decennial Census of Population and Housing Geographies

Geography plays an important role in Decennial Census Program activities. It is the framework by which the Census Bureau collects and publishes demographic, social, housing, and economic data. Geography contributes to, and is involved in sampling, data collection, weighting, and data tabulation activities.

The nation is subdivided into two main types of geographic areas, legal and statistical.

Legal areas are defined specifically by law, and include state, local and tribal government units, as well as some specially defined administrative areas like congressional districts. Many, but not all, are represented by elected officials. Example: New York State

Statistical areas are defined directly by the Census Bureau and state, regional or local authorities, and include census tracts and urban areas. The primary purpose of statistical areas is to tabulate and present census data. Example: Metropolitan Statistical area - "Boston-Cambridge-Quincy-MA-NH Metro area"

For more information on Geographic Areas, see Geography Program Glossary.

Page Last Revised - August 30, 2022
Is this page helpful?
Thumbs Up Image Yes Thumbs Down Image No
NO THANKS
255 characters maximum 255 characters maximum reached
Thank you for your feedback.
Comments or suggestions?

Top

Back to Header