American Community Survey: Evaluating Accuracy

Summary

This report examines the differences and data accuracy in survey methodology between the American Community Survey (ACS) — a monthly survey designed to collect community-level data — and the 2000 Census population counts. Both provide valuable but different information to guide policymakers and corporate leaders, with the ACS being the only source of social and economic data for all communities in the country.

Table of Contents

• Executive Summary
• The American Community Survey in Brief
• Measuring ACS Quality
• Improving Accuracy in the ACS
• Issues for Further Study
• Appendix A: Sources of ACS Error
• Appendix B: Accounting for Missing People and Households
• Suggested Resources