A curated collection of guides, tools, and data platforms to help you access, understand, and use American Community Survey (ACS) and U.S. Census data.
All Resources
Guide
American Community Survey Users Group
An introduction to using and understanding the ACS. Covers the historical origins of the survey, key topics and data products, and pointers to more in-depth information.
Video Series
American Community Survey Overview – 4-Part Video Series
A one-hour video guide covering ACS questions, data access, analysis, and statistics. Divided into 4 modules suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
Analysis
Brookings Institution: 2020 Census Analysis
Brookings’ analysis of 2020 Census results, which provide a once-in-a-decade snapshot of the U.S. population used to inform social, political, and public policy decisions.
Data Tool
National Historical Geographic Information System (NHGIS)
Easy access to Census, ACS, and other datasets across all levels of U.S. geography from 1790 to the present.
Data Platform
Social Explorer – Interactive Demographic Maps
A large collection of interactive demographic maps and data for the United States and the world, with records going back to 1790.
Official Source
U.S. Census Bureau – American Community Survey Homepage
The official ACS page on Census.gov. Provides a general overview of the survey and annual data release information.
Official Source
U.S. Census Bureau – ACS Guidance for Data Users
Resources for working with ACS data, including information on data products, available tools, and handbooks for data user groups.
Webinar
U.S. Census Bureau – ACS Overview Webinar and Materials
A recorded webinar and accompanying materials covering the ACS, its data, available resources, and data products offered through the Census Bureau.
Learning Hub
U.S. Census Bureau – Census Academy: Data Skills Learning Hub
The Census Bureau’s how-to hub for Census and ACS skills. Includes instructional videos, courses, webinars, and tutorials covering everything from data access to building visualizations.
Data Tool
Census Reporter – Open-Source Census Data Explorer
A free, open-source platform that makes Census and ACS data easier to access. Features profile pages, interactive visualizations, and downloadable data on demographics, economics, housing, and social indicators.
Data Tool
U.S. Census Bureau – QuickFacts Statistical Snapshots
An official Census.gov tool for fast statistical snapshots covering population, housing, economic, and social data for the U.S., states, counties, and cities.