LibGuides: Business Subject Guide: Demographics

Using Statistics

Learning to find and use statistics can be tough. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

National and even regional statistics on things like demographics are often going to be old. The census is only taken once every ten years, and smaller surveys may appear every three or five years. You'll find the most recent statistics in articles.

Statistics are typically gathered from government sources, from companies like news agencies, or by academic researchers. Keep in mind who is garthering statistics and why when you consider using them. What biases might be involved?

Many statistic sites will allow you to download tables and then manipulate them using software like excel. This can make it easy to find percentages and do other math. Can't figure out how? Ask a librarian!

Demographics

In addition to these resources, keep in mind that you can often find statistics on more specific topics in academic articles and other studies, as well as in news articles and online.

Census Data This link opens in a new window
Website from the US Census Bureau which allows for easier access to data from the census and American Community Surveys, 2000-present. Locate aggregated statistical information on people, housing, and businesses.
Statistical Abstract of the United States This link opens in a new window
Summarized statistics on the American population, economy, and political environments from 1879 to 2012.

Bureau of Labor Statistics
BLS produces statistics on employment; consumer expenditures; prices and living conditions; wages and employee benefits; productivity and technological changes in U.S.industries; projections of economic growth, the labor force, and employment by industry and occupation.
CensusScope
Created by the University of Michigan, allows you to view demographic trends based on 2000 Census data. The site uses colorful maps and charts to depict nationwide and state based statistical information.
Ohio County Profiles
Prepared by the Ohio Department of Development's Office of Strategic Research this web site contains data and analysis on the Economic, Industrial, and Demographic trends of the State of Ohio, its businesses and its people.
SEC Filings & Forms (EDGAR)
All foreign and domestic companies are required to submit regular reports to the U.S. Securities And Exchange Commission. These reports (dating from 1993 to the present) can be searched in EDGAR by company name, state, or SIC Code.
State & County Quick Facts
Quick basic demographic information from the U.S. Census Bureau. Select a state from the US map to view a statistical overview and use the drop down boxes to narrow by county or city.

Consumer Behavior & Opinions

Consumer Expenditure Survey
Information on the buying habits of American consumers, including data on their expenditures, income, and consumer unit (families and single consumers) characteristics.

Pew Reports This link opens in a new window
The Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan "fact tank" that provides information on the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and the world.

American Time Use Survey
The American Time Use Survey (ATUS) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics measures the amount of time people spend doing various activities, such as paid work, childcare, volunteering, and socializing.