Latest News and Comment from Education

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

ACS: Access Data


ACS: Access Data

American Community Survey (ACS)

Census Bureau Releases 2008 American Community Survey Data

The U.S. Census Bureau today released the latest American Community Survey (ACS) data, providing a statistical portrait of the characteristics of the nation’s population in 2008.

According to the new snapshot, one-in-four people in Texas (24.1 percent) lacked health insurance in 2008, the highest rate in the nation. At the other end of the spectrum, fewer than one-in-20 Massachusetts residents (4.1 percent) lacked coverage.

Health insurance coverage was one of three new topics added to the ACS for 2008. Every question on the ACS is included either because the data are required to satisfy one or more federal laws, regulations or court decisions, or are needed to manage federal programs and allocate more than $400 billion of federal tax dollars annually to states and local communities.

The ongoing survey of approximately 3 million addresses every year provides one of the most complete pictures of our population available. It covers more than 40 topics such as income, educational attainment, housing, family structure and more. All survey responses are strictly confidential and protected by law.

Today’s release compiles social, housing, demographic and select economic data collected throughout 2008 and includes areas with populations of 65,000 or more. Additional 2008 ACS economic data related to family income, poverty and receipt of food stamps will be released on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

Get Data
American FactFinder (AFF)
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Site
Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) Files - Available Fall 2009
Request a Custom Tabulation

Data User Tools & Tips

What's New & Notable
Highlights of changes to the 2008 ACS, including new content and products
2008 Data Product Details
Table shells/IDs, maps, geographic areas, and more
2008 ACS 1-Year Estimates-->
The ACS Compass Products
User-specific handbooks, PowerPoint presentations, and other educational materials
Comparing ACS Data
Guidance on making data comparisons between the 2008 ACS, 2007 ACS, and Census 2000
2008 ACS 1-Year Estimates
Using Multiyear Estimates
Guidance on how to use the new ACS multiyear estimates
Geographic Overview
Details on geographic areas in ACS data products