About the Census & American Community Survey
About the Census
Census data help us understand who lives in our communities and what people need. These data are used by governments, nonprofits, schools, businesses, researchers, community leaders, and the public.
Accurate Census data help:
Determine how many seats each state gets in the U.S. House of Representatives
Direct federal funding for health care, education, transportation, housing, nutrition, infrastructure, and other public services
Help communities plan for schools, roads, emergency services, housing, and economic development
Support better decisions by local governments, nonprofits, businesses, foundations, advocates, and policymakers
Show how Minnesota’s communities are changing over time
The next national Census is in 2030. Minnesota kept all 8 of its congressional seats after the 2020 Census by just 26 people, so a complete and accurate count matters. Every person counted helps make sure Minnesota communities are seen, represented, and supported.
Census data comes from two primary sources: the decennial Census, which happens every ten years, and the American Community Survey, which happens every year.
The Census counts every person in the country and provides basic population information used for representation, redistricting, funding, and long-term planning. See a sample Census form here.
About the American Community Survey
The American Community Survey, or ACS, surveys a sample of 3.5 million households each year. It asks more detailed questions about how people live, work, and move through their communities. The ACS helps fill in the years between each Census with more current information.
ACS data include topics such as:
Income and employment
Education
Housing and rent
Disability
Transportation and commuting
Internet access
Language, age, family, and household characteristics
Together, the Census and ACS provide free, reliable public data that help Minnesota communities plan, advocate, and make decisions. See a sample ACS form here (linked).