Economic Census
Contents
The Economic Census: Backbone of the U.S. Economy
The Economic Census is the most comprehensive and detailed collection of data on American businesses and the economy, providing a foundational snapshot of economic activity across the United States. Conducted every five years by the U.S. Census Bureau for years ending in "2" and "7," this massive undertaking is a cornerstone of the nation's economic statistics.
What is its Purpose? The primary goal of the Economic Census is to provide a detailed portrait of the U.S. economy, from the national and state levels down to local communities. It serves as the benchmark for many other economic surveys and is a vital tool for understanding the structure and functioning of various industries. The data collected is essential for calculating key economic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the Producer Price Index (PPI).
Who Participates? The Economic Census is sent to nearly four million businesses of all sizes and across most industries in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Response to the survey is mandatory for all businesses that receive the questionnaire under Title 13 of the U.S. Code. This ensures the accuracy and completeness of the data collected.
What Information is Collected? The census gathers a wide array of information, providing a granular view of business operations.
Key data points include:
| • | Industry Classification: Businesses are categorized using the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). |
| • | Geographic Location: Data is available for various geographic levels, including states, metropolitan areas, counties, and even specific zip codes. |
| • | Employment and Payroll: The number of employees, annual payroll, and first-quarter payroll are collected. |
| • | Revenue and Sales: Detailed statistics on business revenue, sales, and shipments are a central component. |
| • | Industry-Specific Data: The census also collects data tailored to specific sectors, such as the value of construction work, the types of products manufactured, or the sales of different types of retail goods. |
The Latest Economic Census: The 2022 Cycle
Data collection for the 2022 Economic Census began in early 2023, gathering information for the 2022 calendar year. The results are being released on a rolling basis, providing the most up-to-date and comprehensive look at the post-pandemic economic landscape. The first look at the national-level data was released in January 2024, with more detailed geographic and industry-specific data becoming available throughout 2024 and 2025.
How is the Data Used?
The wealth of information provided by the Economic Census is utilized by a wide range of stakeholders for critical decision-making:
| • | Government Agencies: Federal, state, and local governments rely on the data to assess economic health, inform policy decisions, and allocate funding for infrastructure, public services, and economic development programs. |
| • | Businesses: Companies of all sizes use the data for market analysis, business planning, identifying potential customers and competitors, and making informed decisions about location, expansion, and product development. |
| • | Researchers and Academics: Economists and other researchers use the data to study long-term economic trends, analyze industry performance, and understand the dynamics of the U.S. economy. |
| • | Trade Associations and Chambers of Commerce: These organizations use the data to understand the composition and health of their respective industries and to advocate on behalf of their members. |
| • | The Public: The data is publicly available, allowing individuals to explore the economic landscape of their own communities. |
The Economic Census provides an indispensable foundation for understanding the intricate workings of the U.S. economy. Its detailed and comprehensive nature makes it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to analyze economic trends and make data-driven decisions. Data from the Economic Census is accessible through the U.S. Census Bureau's website, data.census.gov.