Demographics

Introduction

Demographic topics include total population, age, gender, race and ethnicity, household type and household size.

There are several sources of demographic data discussed here.

Decennial Census

The Decennial Census is the authoritative source of demographic data in the United States. It is mandated by Article 1, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution and used for reapportionment and redistricting. The Decennial Census is the official count of the U.S. population and housing that occurs every 10 years.

A selection of data tables from decennial census data are available on our Data Downloads page.

Access Decennial Census data on data.census.gov.

For Census years prior to 2000, check out the National Historical Geographic Information System.

American Community Survey

The American Community Survey (ACS), a product of the U.S. Census Bureau, is an ongoing survey that collects information on the characteristics of the population. The data are available for small geographies and areas with small populations. Although the American Community Survey produces demographic estimates, it is the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates Program that produces and disseminates the official estimates of the population for the nation, states, counties and cities.

Access American Community Survey data on data.census.gov.

Population Estimates

Population estimates provide demographic data in between Decennial Census years.  The Census Bureau in conjunction with the Federal-State Cooperative Program for Population Estimates produce annual estimates of the total resident population for the nation, states, counties and incorporated cities.

Population estimates are produced using mathematical models that incorporate data on births, deaths, IRS tax returns and Social Security Administration records.

Population estimates are released annually and with each release, previous estimates are revised.

Population Estimates data are available on our Data Downloads page.

Population Projections

Population projections are forecasts of population in future time periods. The Kentucky State Data Center is responsible for developing population projections for Kentucky, the Area Development Districts and all 120 counties.

The most current population projections are available on our Data Downloads page.