American Community Survey
American Community Survey
The American Community Survey (ACS) is an on-going, nationwide survey conducted by the United States Census Bureau. It is sent to a sample of the population and tells us what the population looks like and how it lives.
The American Community Survey replaced the long form in the 2010 Decennial Census. The survey includes state- and local-level data profiles (both tabular and narrative) on demographic, social, economic, and housing characteristics.
The Census Data Primer is a brief, easy-to-understand explanation of the ACS, including a chart to illustrate how the ACS differs from the 2010 Census.
Access American Community Survey Data through American Fact Finder
Understanding and Using ACS Data
Cooper Center ACS Guides
- Introduction to the ACS: Understanding, Accessing and Using ACS Data | powerpoint
- Frequently Asked Questions about the American Community Survey | web page
- Guide to Understanding and Using the New Census | from The Column
Census Bureau ACS Handbooks and Guides
- An ACS e-Tutorial: Learn about the ACS and How to Access Data and Other Resources
- What General Data Users Need to Know | PDF
- What the Media Need to Know | PDF
Understanding and Using Multiyear Estimates
- Basic Features of the ACS and Understanding Multiyear Estimates | Cooper Center
- When to Use 1-Year, 3-year and 5-year Estimates | U.S. Census Bureau