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Research Briefs

pdfBlack-Owned Businesses in PA hide


published: 6/19/2023 | tags: Research Briefs

WEBUrban Area Changes hide


published: 1/30/2023 | tags: Research Briefs

pdf2017-2021 ACS 5-Year Estimates hide


published: 12/8/2022 | tags: Research Briefs

WEBDiversity in Pennsylvania hide


published: 11/28/2022 | tags: Research Briefs

pdf2021 ACS 1-Year Estimates hide


published: 9/15/2022 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfCensus 2020: Race & Ethnicity hide


published: 1/13/2022 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfCensus 2020 Redistricting Data hide

State, county, and municipal trends in the P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data.


published: 8/24/2021 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs , State-Level Data

pdf2015-2019 ACS 5-Year Estimates hide


published: 12/10/2020 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfStudents Enrolled in Higher Ed. in Pennsylvania hide

A look at the characteristics of students enrolled in Pennsylvania during Fall 2016.


published: 8/22/2019 | tags: Research Briefs

pdf2019 Data User Conference hide


published: 4/9/2019 | tags: Research Briefs

pdf2013-2017 ACS 5-Year Estimates hide

A look at trends in vacant housing, median household income, and disability in Pennsylvania and its counties to highlight the release of a new set of estimates from the American Community Survey.


published: 12/6/2018 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Disability , Housing , Income , Research Briefs

WEBHomelessness in the Commonwealth hide

A look at Pennsylvania's homeless population with HUD's Point-in-Time counts.


published: 8/20/2018 | tags: Research Briefs

pdf2017 Detailed Population Estimates hide

2017 State and County population estimates by age, sex, race, and ethnicity.


published: 6/21/2018 | tags: Age , County-Level Data , Estimates , Estimates Data , Ethnicity , Race , Research Briefs

pdf2018 Data User Conference hide


published: 4/18/2018 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfFinancing Education in the Commonwealth hide

Revenues and Expenditures of Pennsylvania's Schools by County, FY2015-2016


published: 3/8/2018 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfDisability in the Commonwealth: 2012 to 2016 hide

A look at disability in Pennsylvania using the 2016 American Community Survey Five-Year Estimates (2012-2016).


published: 1/19/2018 | tags: Disability , Research Briefs , State-Level Data

WEBHealthcare in Pennsylvania hide

A look at the Small Area Health Insurance Estimates data from 2010 to 2015.


published: 8/25/2017 | tags: County-Level Data , Estimates Data , Health Insurance , Research Briefs

pdfThe State of Industry: 2005 to 2015 hide

A look at trends in County Data Books with data for 2005, 2010, and 2015.


published: 6/14/2017 | tags: County Business Patterns Data , County-Level Data , Economy , Employment , Research Briefs

pdf2016 Sub-County Population Estimates hide

Population Estimates for Pennsylvania's Municipalities as of July 1, 2016


published: 5/25/2017 | tags: Estimates , Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdf2016 National and State Estimates hide

2016 National and State Population Estimates for Pennsylvania along with regional and national trends.


published: 12/21/2016 | tags: Estimates , Research Briefs , State-Level Data

pdf2015 ACS 5-Year Estimates Released hide

2015 ACS 5–Year Estimates Released for Pennsylvania: Exploring the Different Realities in Rural and Urban Counties


published: 12/8/2016 | tags: Research Briefs , Urban/Rural Data

pdfMeaning of Police Legitimacy hide


published: 10/17/2016 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfHispanic Heritage Month hide


published: 10/15/2014 | tags: Ethnicity , Research Briefs

pdfEducation and Earnings in Pennsylvania hide

Click the link below to view Education and Earnings data for Pennsylvania Counties: http://pasdc.hbg.psu.edu/Data/PaSDCDashboards/ACSEducation20072011/tabid/2015/Default.aspx


published: 5/16/2013 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Education , Income , Research Briefs

pdfThe PaSDC's New 2012 Pennsylvania Facts Brochure is Now Available hide

Did you know that the home ownership rate in Pennsylvania was 69.6 percent in 2010? Or that Pennsylvania had 7.75 million acres of farmland during the same time period? These facts, and dozens more, are contained in the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s new 2012 Pennsylvania Facts Brochure.


published: 3/19/2012 | tags: 2010 Census Data , American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Celebrates Black History Month hide

Pennsylvania has a rich and intriguing African American history. As early as 1688, the first written protest against slavery in the American colonies came from German Quakers in Germantown near Philadelphia. By the 1770s, abolitionism was a full-scale movement in Pennsylvania. However, it was not until 1926 that American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week, which in 1976 – the nation’s bicentennial - expanded to Black History Month. According to the 2010 Census, the United States was home to nearly 39 million residents who were black or African American. Blacks accounted 12.6 percent of the total U.S. population in 2010. In Pennsylvania, more than 1.3 million residents identified themselves as black or African American in 2010, which represented 10.8 percent of Commonwealth’s total population.


published: 2/23/2012 | tags: Race , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 65 hide

The future is upon us. The leading edge of the baby boom cohort turned age 65 last January. They are among the first of the nearly 78 million Americans from the baby boomer generation (those born between 1946 and 1964) to reach their golden years. Distinguishable by the dramatic increase in birth rates and prosperity following World War II, the baby boomers are part of one of the largest and perhaps, most celebrated generations in U.S. history.


published: 1/24/2012 | tags: 2010 Census Data , American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases First Population Estimates Based on the 2010 Census hide

Pennsylvania continues its trend of slow growth, according to the 2011 National and State Population Estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Today’s release marks the first set of population estimates to be based on the 2010 Census. Pennsylvania’s estimated population grew to 12,742,886, representing a growth rate of 0.3 percent between 2010 and 2011. Pennsylvania remains the 6th largest state in the nation behind California, Texas, New York, Florida and Illinois.


published: 12/21/2011 | tags: Estimates , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases 2006-2010 American Community Survey Estimates hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released new demographic and socio-economic data for every community in the United States, including all counties, municipalities, and other geographic areas down to the census block group level. The release of the 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates mark the first time ACS estimates have been benchmarked to controls based on the 2010 Census. The data contained in today’s release has also been tabulated to 2010 Census geographic areas, making it possible to combine with 2010 Census data to produce data profiles for Pennsylvania counties and municipalities.


published: 12/8/2011 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdf2010 Census and the American Community Survey: Where is the Socio-Economic Data? hide

By now, most data users have accessed population counts and basic demographic data available from the 2010 Census. However, some users of data remain confused when it comes to locating the latest socio-economic data available from the U.S. Census Bureau. Since the release of the first local decennial census counts in March, the Pennsylvania State Data Center has received a large number of inquiries from individuals looking for the detailed socio-economic data that was derived from the past decennial census sample data. This research brief seeks to end the confusion surrounding the re-engineered 2010 Census, the American Community Survey and answer the question: Where is the socio-economic data?


published: 11/22/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfVeterans Day 2011: A Profile of Pennsylvania Veterans hide

From the 92nd annual Veterans Day parade in downtown Pittsburgh to the events at the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum in Media, communities across the commonwealth spare no effort to honor former servicemen and women on Veterans Day. Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Seven years later, Congress passed a resolution calling for an annual observance, and ultimately November 11th became a national holiday beginning in 1938. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to thank and honor all those who served in the United States Armed Forces.


published: 11/11/2011 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Receives $145.9 Billion in Federal Funds, 5th highest in Nation hide

Pennsylvania received $145.9 billion in federal funding in 2010 according to the recently released Consolidated Federal Funds Report for Fiscal Year 2010. The Commonwealth’s share of funding represents 4.5 percent of the $3.3 trillion spent by the federal government and ranks 5th among the states.


published: 10/7/2011 | tags: Economy , Government , Research Briefs

pdfNew 2010 American Community Survey Data Reveals Poverty on the Rise hide

More Pennsylvanians are living below the poverty level, according to the 2010 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The percentage of Pennsylvanians below the poverty level increased from 12.5 percent in 2009 to 13.4 percent in 2010. Despite the increase, the Commonwealth’s poverty rate ranks 31st among the states and the District of Columbia and is nearly two percentage points lower than that of the nation overall (15.3 percent).


published: 9/22/2011 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfBack to School in Pennsylvania 2011 hide

School bells are ringing across the Commonwealth signaling the end of summer vacation. Back-to-school time stirs up a number of mixed emotions for children. Some eagerly anticipate the start of a new year and all its promise, while others dread the return to school buses, packed lunches, and homework. Parents, on the other hand, have a much more uniform reaction to the news – pure joy!


published: 8/30/2011 | tags: Economy , Education , Research Briefs

pdf2011 Annual Data User Conference to Address New 2010 Census Data and Much More hide

Data users from across the Commonwealth are set to gather at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey for the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s 2011 Annual Data User Conference on September 15, 2011. The Annual Data User Conference serves as Pennsylvania’s most comprehensive single-day forum for research and development in demographic data. This year’s conference entitled, What Data Can Teach Us, will focus on trends and lessons Pennsylvania communities can learn from the wealth of new data available from the U.S. Census Bureau, including the latest releases from the 2010 Census.


published: 8/18/2011 | tags: PaSDC , Research Briefs

pdfMore Pennsylvanians Living in Renter-occupied Housing Units: State Sees Modest Increase in Homeownership hide

The recently released 2010 Census figures show that the number of Pennsylvanians renting living space is on the rise. The number of Pennsylvanians living in renter-occupied housing units increased 13.6 percent between 2000 and 2010, an increase of 394,082 people. More than 3.3 million Pennsylvanians resided in renter-occupied housing units with an average household size of 2.16 persons per household in 2010.


published: 7/27/2011 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfCensus 2010 Shows Changing Pennsylvania Households: Single Parent Households on the Rise hide

Households headed by married couples no longer account for the majority of households in Pennsylvania, according to recently-released 2010 Census Summary File 1. The number of married couple households declined by 2.0 percent between 2000 and 2010, a decrease of 49,908 households. Married couple households now account for 48.2 percent of the state’s total households. The 2010 Census Summary File 1 release in June includes added detail about the subjects covered in the 2010 Census to provide an enhanced picture of the Commonwealth.


published: 7/12/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Summary File 1 for Pennsylvania: What’s changed over the past 10 years? hide

Pennsylvania’s school age population declined, according to the 2010 Census Summary File 1 for Pennsylvania released today. The 2010 Census Summary File 1 (SF-1) contains detailed statistics on population and housing subjects derived from the 2010 Census questionnaire. Summary File 1 differs from previous data releases from the 2010 Census by providing added detail about the subjects covered in the 2010 Census to offer a more enhanced picture of the Commonwealth.


published: 6/23/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfNearly 1 in 10 Pennsylvania Businesses Are Veteran-owned hide

Veteran-owned businesses in Pennsylvania totaled 96,066 in 2007, according to a recently-released U.S. Census Bureau report, 2007 Survey of Business Owners: Veteran-owned Firms. The Commonwealth’s Veteran-owned firms accounted for 9.8 percent of all Pennsylvania firms in 2007.


published: 5/25/2011 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs , Veterans

pdfCensus 2010 Detailed Population and Housing Data Released for Pennsylvania hide

Pennsylvania’s population continues to age according to the 2010 Census Demographic Profile for Pennsylvania released today. The population age 62 and older increased 7.7 percent since 2000. The population age 65 and older increased 2.1 percent from 2000 to 2010 and the population under 18 declined 4.5 percent during the period. Median age rose from 38.0 years in 2000 to 40.1 years in 2010.


published: 5/19/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfAdvanced Group Quarters Data Released for Pennsylvania: Nursing Home Population Decreases 23.1 Percent hide

The Census Bureau recently released the first look at group quarters population data for Pennsylvania from the 2010 Census. According to the Advanced Group Quarters Summary File, a total of 426,113 Pennsylvanians lived in a group quarter as of April 1, 2010. The Commonwealth’s group quarters population decreased 1.7 percent (7,188 total persons) over the past decade.


published: 4/21/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfPaSDC Releases the State of the Commonwealth: 2011 – A Comprehensive Look at the Keystone State’s Demographics hide

The PaSDC has recently released a comprehensive summary of facts and figures about the Commonwealth. The State of the Commonwealth: 2011 provides an overview of the most accurate, up-to-date information about Pennsylvania. This publication contains seven sections, each addressing an important issue for Pennsylvania and its residents: demographics and population change; social characteristics; the elderly; education; and income and poverty.


published: 4/6/2011 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfCensus 2010 Shows Hispanic Population the Fastest-Growing Minority Group in Pennsylvania hide

Pennsylvania’s Hispanic population is the fastest-growing minority group in the state, according to new Census 2010 data released this week. The population (of any race) who is Hispanic or Latino grew by 82.6 percent between 2000 and 2010, an increase of 325,572 people. The Hispanic (or Latino) population now accounts for 5.7 percent of the state’s population.


published: 3/11/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Ethnicity , Research Briefs

pdfLocal 2010 Census Data Released for Pennsylvania: State Shows Continued Population Growth hide

The Census Bureau today released the first local 2010 Census results for Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth’s population as of April 1, 2010 was 12,702,379. Pennsylvania’s population increased 3.4 percent (421,325 total persons) since the last Decennial Census (April 1, 2000). The Commonwealth’s population remains the sixth largest in the nation, but is set to lose one seat in the U.S. House of Representatives because of larger population gains in other states.


published: 3/9/2011 | tags: 2010 Census Data , County-Level Data , Race , Research Briefs

pdfValentine’s Day: A Day of Love and Big Business hide

Valentine’s Day is an annual commemoration held on February 14th celebrating love and affection. One legend contends that Valentine’s Day originated to commemorate the anniversary of the death of St. Valentine, a Roman clergyman who was executed for secretly marrying couples in defiance of the emperor. According to another, the holiday began as a Roman fertility festival. Regardless of its origins, Valentine’s Day provides a terrific opportunity to express affection for that special someone.


published: 2/14/2011 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Black-Owned Businesses Increase More Than 80 Percent hide

Black-owned businesses in Pennsylvania increased over 80 percent between 2002 and 2007, according to a recently-released U.S. Census Bureau report, 2007 Survey of Business Owners: Black-Owned Firms. The growth rate of the Commonwealth’s Black owned firms was almost seven times the state average for all businesses (12.4 percent) (see Figure 1). Nearly 20,000 Black-owned firms have been added since 2002, increasing the Commonwealth’s total to 44,717.


published: 2/10/2011 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdf2007-2009 American Community Survey Data Released: Multi-Year Estimates Provide Updated Data for Dozens of Counties and Cities hide

The Census Bureau recently released new demographic and social data for areas with populations of 20,000 or more. The 2007-2009 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates contain data relating to income, poverty, educational attainment, commuting statistics, disability, employment and much more. The American Community Survey (ACS) is a continuous survey that replaces the decennial census long form, and provides more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year.


published: 1/11/2011 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases First 2010 Census Results: Pennsylvania Continues Modest Population Growth; Loses 1 House Seat hide

Pennsylvania’s population increased 3.4 percent since the last Decennial Census to 12,702,379 total persons, according to the official 2010 Census counts released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Commonwealth remains the sixth largest state in the nation. As a result of the 2010 Census results, the number of legislators representing Pennsylvania in the U.S. House of Representatives will decline for the ninth straight census, declining by one seat in Congress and reducing the state’s total number to 18. It has been a century - following the 1910 Census - since the Commonwealth last experienced an increase in representation in Congress


published: 12/21/2010 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfNew 2005-2009 American Community Survey 5-Year Data Released: First Updated Demographic Data Since 2000 for Thousands of Areas hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released new demographic and social data for every community in the United States, including for the first time all counties, municipalities, census tracts, and other geographies. The data is the first release of 5-Year Estimates from the 2005-2009 American Community Survey, an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 Census. This is the first detailed socio-economic data released for several counties, state legislative districts, municipalities and school districts since Census 2000. Data relating to income, poverty, education, commuting statistics, veterans, and employment are included in the survey, as well as many other topics.


published: 12/14/2010 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfThanksgiving Day – November 25, 2010 hide

Thanksgiving Day is rooted in the tradition of the many harvest festivals celebrated throughout history. In the United States, Thanksgiving is popularly traced to a 1621 feast shared by English Pilgrims, who founded the Plymouth Colony, and members of the Wampanoag Native American tribe. The celebration gained greater prominence when President Abraham Lincoln, longing to unite the county during the Civil War, proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving to be held in November 1863. In 1939, President Franklin Roosevelt declared that Thanksgiving should always be celebrated on the next to last Thursday of the month to encourage earlier holiday shopping. Two years later, Congress established an official federal holiday to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November.


published: 11/22/2010 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfVeterans Day: A Profile of Pennsylvania Veterans hide

Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Seven years later, Congress passed a resolution calling for an annual observance, and ultimately Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to thank and honor all those who served in the United States Armed Forces. This national day of respect and remembrance is marked by parades and commemorations across the country, including the notable Veterans Day National Ceremony held at Arlington National Cemetery.


published: 11/9/2010 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfHalloween in Pennsylvania - October 31, 2010 hide

The occurrence of Halloween, which dates back to Celtic rituals performed thousands of years ago, has long been associated with thoughts of witches, ghosts, devils, and other creatures of the night. In the United States, the first recorded instance of Halloween festivities occurred in Anoka, Minnesota in 1921. However, Allentown, Pennsylvania’s annual Halloween parade, rumored to be the nation’s first, dates to 1905. While the customs and rituals associated with All-Hallows Eve have changed dramatically over the years, Halloween has grown to one of the most popular and widely celebrated holidays in the United States.


published: 10/27/2010 | tags: Crime , Economy , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfColumbus Day (October 11, 2010) in Pennsylvania: A Glance at Pennsylvania's Heritage hide

Columbus Day (October 11, 2010) honors Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, whose three fabled ships commissioned by Queen Isabella of Spain landed on American shores in 1492. The momentous voyage, celebrated since colonial times as the birth of a New World, became an official federal holiday in 1934. The observance of Columbus Day offers an opportunity to celebrate the immigration of settlers to America. The mass immigration of people from all over the world has helped the United States of America become one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the world.


published: 10/7/2010 | tags: Ancestry , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdf2009 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates Released hide

The Census Bureau today released new demographic data for all 50 states, and the nation’s largest counties and cities, including for the first time, data on Bachelor’s degree by field-of-degree. Today’s release includes only the 2009 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. The American Community Survey (ACS) is a dataset that replaces the long form of the decennial census, and provides more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year. Data relating to income, poverty, educational attainment, commuting statistics, disability and employment are included in the survey, as well as many other topics.


published: 9/28/2010 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Education , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Data on Health Insurance Coverage for States and Counties hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released estimates on the number of people covered by health insurance for states and counties. The Small Area Health Insurance Estimates (SAHIE) provide information for various age groups, including adults under the age of 65 and children under the age of 19, on health insurance coverage for 2007.


published: 7/27/2010 | tags: Health Insurance , Research Briefs

pdfA 2010 Independence Day Look at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania hide

On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. As always, this most American of holidays will be commemorated by Pennsylvania and the rest of the country with parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues.


published: 7/1/2010 | tags: Economy , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdf2009 Population Estimates Released for Pennsylvania Cities, Boroughs and Townships hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released July 1, 2009 population estimates for sub-county geographies, including Pennsylvania cities, boroughs and townships.


published: 6/22/2010 | tags: Estimates Data , Municipal-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdfGrowth of Pennsylvania Housing Units in 2009 hide

New estimates released recently by the Census Bureau for states and counties show that the state continues to add new houses, apartments and mobile homes. According to the new estimates, the total number of Pennsylvania’s housing units grew to 5,518,556 in 2009, ranking the Commonwealth 5th among all states in number of housing units. Since 2000, the number of housing units in Pennsylvania has increased by 262,792, a 5.1 percent increase. The Commonwealth ranks 46th among the states in percent increase between 2000 and 2009. In terms of percent, Pennsylvania housing has grown more slowly than the nation over the last nine years (12.1 percent nationwide).


published: 6/16/2010 | tags: Estimates Data , Housing , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Estimates Include Age, Race and Ethnicity Data for Pennsylvania and its Counties: 2009 hide

Pennsylvania and its counties have become more diverse than ever before, according to 2009 U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, released today. The overall minority population has grown to 2,408,387 people in 2009, representing 19.1 percent of the state’s population. (Overall ‘minority’ is defined as the total population minus the White Alone, not Hispanic population.)


published: 6/10/2010 | tags: County-Level Data , Estimates Data , Ethnicity , Race , Research Briefs

pdfMobility and Migration in Pennsylvania: 2008 and 2009 hide

Migration is a critical component in Pennsylvania’s population growth. This research brief explores the characteristics and trends in Pennsylvania migration.


published: 6/2/2010 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Estimates Data , Migration , Research Briefs

pdf2009 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates and Metro and Micro Area Population Estimates Released hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released the 2009 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates and the 2009 Metro and Micro Area Population Estimates.


published: 3/23/2010 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases 2009 National and State Population Estimates –Nation Gained 2.6 Million People Last Year, Commonwealth Increased by 38,399 hide

Pennsylvania continues its trend of slow growth, according to the 2009 National and State Population Estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau.


published: 12/23/2009 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Holiday Shopping Season hide

The holiday season is a time for celebration, gift-giving and family. From the Christmas shopping bonanza that fills the coffers of Pennsylvania malls and retail outlets to other wintertime celebrations like Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, Pennsylvania’s economy sees a boost of activity in the holiday season.


published: 12/16/2009 | tags: Economy , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfThanksgiving Day –November 26, 2009 hide

What many regard as the nation’s first Thanksgiving took place in December 1621 when the religious separatist Pilgrims held a three-day feast to celebrate a bountiful harvest. The day did not become a national holiday until 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a national day of thanksgiving. Later, President Franklin Roosevelt clarified that Thanksgiving should always be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of the month to encourage earlier holiday shopping, never on the occasional fifth Thursday.


published: 11/20/2009 | tags: Agriculture , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdf2008 American Community Survey Released: Demographic Snapshot Now Includes Health Insurance Data hide

The Census Bureau today released new demographic data for all 50 states, and the nation’s largest counties and cities, including for the first time this year data on health insurance coverage. The 2008 American Community Survey is a dataset that replaces the long form of the decennial census, data that includes income, poverty, educational attainment, commuting statistics, disability and employment.


published: 9/22/2009 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Health Insurance , Research Briefs

pdfGrowth of Pennsylvania Housing Units in 2008 hide

New estimates released recently by the Census Bureau show that the state continues to add new houses, apartments and mobile homes. According to the new estimates, the total number of Pennsylvania’s housing units grew to 5,496,336 in 2008, ranking the Commonwealth 5th among all states in number of housing units. Since 2000, the number of housing units in Pennsylvania has increased by 246,583, a 4.7 percent increase. The Commonwealth ranks 45th among the states in percent increase between 2000 and 2008. In terms of percent, Pennsylvania housing has grown more slowly than the nation over the last seven years (11.4 percent nationwide).


published: 8/12/2009 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Released for Pennsylvania Cities, Boroughs and Townships hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released July 1, 2008 population estimates for sub-county geographies, including Pennsylvania cities, boroughs and townships.


published: 7/1/2009 | tags: Estimates Data , Municipal-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdfNew 2008 Census Estimates Include Age, Race and Ethnicity Data for Pennsylvania and its Counties hide

Pennsylvania and its counties have become more diverse than ever before, according to 2008 U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, released today. The overall minority population has grown to 2,313,796 people in 2008, representing 18.6 percent of the state’s population.


published: 5/14/2009 | tags: Age , County-Level Data , Estimates Data , Ethnicity , Race , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Workers to Verify Addresses in Pennsylvania hide

The first wave of Census 2010 activities has begun, and Pennsylvania residents may begin seeing Census employees in their community. The Pennsylvania State Data Center would like pass along this important information from the U.S. Census Bureau.


published: 4/10/2009 | tags: 2010 Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfPaSDC Releases the State of the Commonwealth: 2009 – A Comprehensive Look at the Keystone State’s Demographics hide

The PaSDC has released a new publication, a comprehensive summary of facts and figures about the Commonwealth. The State of the Commonwealth: 2009, provides an overview of the most accurate, up-to-date information about Pennsylvania. This publication contains eight sections, each addressing an important issue for Pennsylvania and its residents: demographics and population change; social characteristics; children and families; the elderly; education; employment and commuting; income and poverty; and housing characteristics.


published: 4/10/2009 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfData Center Releases New 2009 Pennsylvania Facts Brochure hide

Did you know that the home ownership rate in Pennsylvania was 71.6 percent in 2007? Or that 7.65 million acres of Pennsylvania land were part of farms during the same time? These facts, and dozens more, are contained in the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s new 2009 Pennsylvania Facts Brochure.


published: 3/27/2009 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdf2008 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates and Metro and Micro Area Population Estimates Released hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released the 2008 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates and the 2008 Metro and Micro Area Population Estimates.


published: 3/19/2009 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases 2008 National and State Population Estimates – Nation Gained 2.8 Million People Last Year, Commonwealth Increased by 28,349 hide

Pennsylvania continues its trend of slow growth, according to the 2008 National and State Population Estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau.


published: 12/22/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfNew 2005-2007 American Community Survey Data Released: First Multi-Year Estimates Bring New Data for Dozens of Counties and Cities hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released new demographic and social data for areas with populations of 20,000 or more. The data is the first release of Multi-Year Estimates from the 2005-2007 American Community Survey (ACS), an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 Census. The American Community Survey will replace the decennial census long form and provide more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year.


published: 12/9/2008 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania County Population Projections Now Available hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg has produced state and county detailed population projections for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The projections contain a wealth of data, information and analysis useful for planning, policy evaluation, the consideration of alternative public or private intervention activities, and the formulation and management of programs developed to deal with particular situations.


published: 11/3/2008 | tags: Projections , Research Briefs

pdfNew 2007 American Community Survey Data Released: Social, Economic and Housing Characteristics Now Available hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released new demographic and social data for areas with populations of 65,000 or more. The data is from the 2007 American Community Survey (ACS), an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 census. The American Community Survey will replace the decennial census long form and provide more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year.


published: 9/23/2008 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdf2007 American Community Survey Data Released: Income, Earnings and Poverty Data Included hide

The number and percent of Pennsylvania’s residents in poverty decreased between 2006 and 2007, from 1,448,228 people in 2006 (12.1 percent) to 1,393,026 people (11.6 percent) in 2007, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2007 American Community Survey (ACS), released today. This data release includes areas with populations of 65,000 or more and covers income, earnings and poverty. The ACS, an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 census, will replace the decennial census long form and provide yearly information about the nation’s changing and diverse population.


published: 8/26/2008 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfGrowth of Pennsylvania Housing Units in 2007 hide

Pennsylvania has some of the nation’s oldest housing stock, but new estimates released today by the Census Bureau show that the state continues to add new houses, apartments and mobile homes. According to the new estimates, the total number of Pennsylvania’s housing units grew to 5,477,864 in 2007, ranking the Commonwealth 5th among all states in number of housing units. Between July 1, 2006 and July 1, 2007, Pennsylvania gained 24,901 housing units, a 0.5 percent increase. Since 2000, the number of housing units has increased by 228,113, a 4.3 percent increase. The Commonwealth ranks 45th among the states in percent increase between 2000 and 2007 (4.3 percent). In terms of percent, Pennsylvania housing has grown about half as fast as the nation over the last six years.


published: 8/21/2008 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases 2007 County Population Estimates by Sex, Age, Race and Hispanic Origin for Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released July 1, 2007 estimates of Pennsylvania’s counties based on sex, age, race and Hispanic origin. According to these estimates, the Hispanic population continues to grow in virtually all of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, including Luzerne County, whose Hispanic population shot up by 20.5 percent between 2006 and 2007.


published: 8/7/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Released for Pennsylvania Cities, Boroughs and Townships hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released 2007 population estimates for sub-county geographies, including Pennsylvania cities, boroughs and townships.


published: 7/10/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Municipal-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdf2006 County Business Patterns Released hide

Pennsylvania saw an increase of 725 business establishments with paid employees between 2005 and 2006, according to the recently-released U.S. Census Bureau report, County Business Patterns: 2006. As the number of business establishments increased, the total number of paid employees also increased, adding 107,319 employees or a 2.1 percent gain.


published: 6/30/2008 | tags: County Business Patterns Data , Research Briefs

pdf2007 Detailed State Population Estimates Released: Hispanic and Other Minority Groups Show Largest Population Gains hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released July 1, 2007 estimates of the population based on age, sex, race and Hispanic origin. The release includes detailed population estimates for Pennsylvania at the state level. The data illustrates the commonwealth’s changing demographics, showing almost one in five Pennsylvania residents is a minority. Overall, the populations of several age groups, including persons 25-44 and children under the age of 18 have declined. The state’s total population has increased to 12,432,792, from 12,402,817 in 2006 (0.2 percent increase) and 12,281,054 in 2000 (1.2 percent increase).


published: 5/1/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Receives $103.3 Billion in Federal Funds, 5th Highest in Nation hide

Pennsylvania received $103.3 billion dollars in federal funding in 2006 according to the recently released Consolidated Federal Funds Report for Fiscal Year 2006. The commonwealth’s share of funding represents 4.2 percent of the $2.5 trillion spent by the federal government and ranks 5th among the states.


published: 5/1/2008 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases 2007 Metro and Micro Area Population Estimates: York-Hanover Metro Area is the fastest growing in the Northeast hide

The York-Hanover Metropolitan Statistical Area continues to be the fastest-growing metro area in the Northeast region, according to 2007 Population Estimates for Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas, released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Although none of the metro areas in the Northeast region were among the 100 fastest-growing, York-Hanover was the 107th fastest-growing metro area in the nation, increasing 1.6 percent from 414,505 in 2006 to 421,049 people on July 1, 2007.


published: 3/27/2008 | tags: MSA-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdf2007 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates Released hide

Pike County is Pennsylvania’s fastest-growing county, according to the 2007 county population estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. As of July 1, 2007, Pike County’s population was 58,633, and has grown 2.4 percent, or 1,381 people since July 1, 2006. Pike County grew by 26.6 percent, or 12,331 persons since April 1, 2000. Pike County has been ranked as the fastest-growing county in Pennsylvania each year since 2000. Though several counties saw strong growth during the time period, no Pennsylvania county ranks in the national top 100 for growth rate over this time period. From 2000-2007, Forest County had the largest cumulative percent population increase (40.6), but that increase is largely due to the construction of a state correctional institution in 2004. The commonwealth also boasted four counties among the top 100 largest nationally in 2007: Philadelphia, 24th (1,449,634), Allegheny, 30th (1,219,210), Montgomery, 69th (776,172) and Bucks, 96th (621,144).


published: 3/20/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfData Center Releases New 2008 Pennsylvania Facts Brochure hide

Did you know that the home ownership rate in Pennsylvania was 71.7 percent in 2006? Or that 7.65 million acres of Pennsylvania land were part of farms during the same time? These facts, and dozens more, are contained in the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s new 2008 Pennsylvania Facts Brochure.


published: 3/3/2008 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases 2006 State-to-State Migration Flows for Pennsylvania: New York and New Jersey most closely tied to Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released information on State-to-State Migrations for Pennsylvania from the 2006 American Community Survey. This data documents the migration patterns of residents in and out of Pennsylvania for 2005 to 2006.


published: 2/19/2008 | tags: Migration , Research Briefs

pdfNew 2005 Estimates of Population in Poverty in Pennsylvania Released hide

New data from the Small Area Income & Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) program show that there were an estimated 305,450 Pennsylvania school-age children in families in poverty in 2005. The 2005 SAIPE data, recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau, indicate that impoverished school-age children now comprise 15.1 percent of the population ages 5-17, below the national average of 17.0 percent. Pennsylvania ranks 26th nationally (including Washington, D.C.) in order of the highest proportion of school-age children in poverty. Overall, an estimated 457,751 children (ages 0-17) in the Commonwealth live in poverty.


published: 1/10/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Show Pennsylvania Continues Slow Growth; International Migration Most Significant Source of Change hide

International migration is the biggest source of population growth in Pennsylvania, according to 2007 national and state population estimates and estimated components of change released recently by the U.S. Census Bureau. Pennsylvania’s estimated population grew to 12,432,792 between July 1, 2006 and July 1, 2007, a growth rate of 0.2 percent. Pennsylvania ranked 24th in numeric change in population between 2006 and 2007 and 41st in percent change in population.


published: 1/4/2008 | tags: Estimates Data , Migration , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Holiday Shopping Season hide

The holiday season is a time for celebration, gift-giving and family. From the Christmas shopping bonanza that fills the coffers of Pennsylvania malls and retail outlets to other wintertime celebrations like Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, Pennsylvania’s economy sees a boost of activity in the holiday season.


published: 12/14/2007 | tags: Economy , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfHalloween in Pennsylvania - October 31, 2007 hide

The observance of Halloween, which dates back to Celtic rituals thousands of years ago, has long been associated with thoughts of witches, ghosts, devils and hobgoblins. In the United States, the first recorded instance of a Halloween celebration occurred in Anoka, Minnesota in 1921, but Allentown, Pennsylvania claims one of the nation’s oldest Halloween parades, dating to 1905. Over the years, the customs and rituals associated with All-Hallows Eve have changed dramatically, and Halloween has become the darling of American holidays. This one-night event is “out-earned” only by Christmas and “out-partied” only by New Year’s Eve and Super Bowl Sunday.


published: 10/29/2007 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdf2006 American Community Survey Group Quarters Data Released – Populations in Prisons, Dormitories and Nursing Homes Now Included hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released new demographic and social data from the 2006 American Community Survey (ACS) for the population living in group quarters. Group quarters data includes any non-household living situation and was included in the ACS for the first time this year. Group quarters data are collected for two categories of facilities: institutional, including residences such as correctional facilities, nursing homes and psychiatric hospitals; and non-institutional, which include residences such as college dormitories, military barracks and adult group homes.


published: 9/27/2007 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfPaSDC Releases the Pennsylvania Abstract, A Statistical Factbook: 2007, the Most Comprehensive Source Available for Facts and Figures about the Commonwealth hide

The most comprehensive collection of facts and figures about the Commonwealth is now available for 2007. The Pennsylvania Abstract, A Statistical Factbook: 2007, is published annually by the Pennsylvania State Data Center and provides the most accurate, up-to-date information about Pennsylvania. In addition to hundreds of data items compiled from state and federal agencies, the Abstract contains maps, and graphics that are regularly employed by the business community, planners, policy-makers, marketers, and researchers.


published: 9/27/2007 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdf2006 American Community Survey Data Released, Social, Economic & Housing Characteristics Now Available hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released social, economic and housing data for areas with populations of 65,000 or more. The data is from the 2006 American Community Survey (ACS), an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 census. The American Community Survey will replace the decennial census long form and provide more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year.


published: 9/12/2007 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfGrowth of Pennsylvania Housing Units in 2006 hide

According to new estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau, Pennsylvania’s housing units grew to 5,453,228 in 2006, ranking the Commonwealth 5th among all states in number of housing units. Between July 1, 2005 and July 1, 2006, Pennsylvania gained 30,644 housing units, a 0.6 percent increase. Since 2000, the number of housing units has increased by 203,477, a 3.9 percent increase. The Commonwealth ranks 45th among the states in percent increase between 2000 and 2006 (3.9 percent). In terms of percent, Pennsylvania housing has grown about half as fast as the nation over the last five years.


published: 9/12/2007 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdf2006 American Community Survey Data Released Income, Earnings and Poverty Statistics Included hide

The U.S. Census Bureau yesterday released new data on income, earnings and poverty from the 2006 American Community Survey (ACS) for areas with populations of 65,000 or more. The ACS, as an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 census, will replace the decennial census long form and provide yearly information about the nation’s changing and diverse population.


published: 8/29/2007 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases 2006 County Population Estimates by Sex, Age, Race and Hispanic Origin for Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released July 1, 2006 estimates of Pennsylvania’s counties based on sex, age, race and Hispanic origin. According to these estimates, Philadelphia County is one of the 303 counties in the United States, and the only county in Pennsylvania, that is “majority-minority,” meaning more than 50 percent of its population comes from minority groups.


published: 8/9/2007 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Released for Pennsylvania Cities, Boroughs and Townships hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released 2006 population estimates for sub-county geographies, including Pennsylvania cities, boroughs and townships. Notable among the changes in Pennsylvania municipalities is the loss of West Lawn Borough, which was dissolved in January 2006, and became part of Spring Township, in Berks County. Population estimates for Spring Township (26,349 as of July 1, 2006) now include the population formerly residing in West Lawn Borough.


published: 6/28/2007 | tags: Estimates Data , Municipal-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdf2005 County Business Patterns Released hide

Pennsylvania saw an increase in 1,776 business establishments with paid employees between 2004 and 2005, according to the recently-released U.S. Census Bureau report, County Business Patterns: 2005. Though the number of business establishments increased, the total number of paid employees decreased by 24,414, or a 0.5 percent loss.


published: 6/11/2007 | tags: County Business Patterns Data , Research Briefs

pdf2006 Detailed State Population Estimates Released: Hispanic and Minority Groups Account for All of Pennsylvania’s Population Growth hide

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released July 1, 2006 estimates of the population based on sex, age, race and Hispanic origin. The release includes detailed population estimates for Pennsylvania at the state level. The data illustrates the commonwealth’s changing demographics, showing that minorities and persons of Hispanic origin now account for all of the state’s population growth. Overall, the populations of several age groups, including persons 25-44 and children under the age of 18 have declined. The state’s total population has increased to 12,440,621, from 12,405,348 in 2005 (a 0.2 percent increase) and 12,281,054 in 2000 (a 1.3 percent increase).


published: 5/17/2007 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases 2006 Metro and Micro Area Population Estimates: York-Hanover Metro Area is the fastest growing in the Northeast hide

The York-Hanover Metropolitan Statistical Area is the fastestgrowing metro area in the Northeast region, and is ranked nationally among the fastestgrowing in the nation, according to 2006 Population Estimates for Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas, released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The estimates listed York-Hanover as the 95th fastest-growing metro area in the nation, increasing 9.1 percent from 391,751 in 2000 to 416,322 people on July 1, 2006.


published: 4/5/2007 | tags: MSA-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdf2006 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates Released hide

Pike County continues to be ranked nationally as Pennsylvania’s fastest-growing county, among counties over 10,000 population in percent increase, according to the 2006 county population estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. As of July 1, 2006, Pike County’s population was 58,195, and has grown 25.7 percent, or 11,893 persons since April 1, 2000. Pike County has been ranked as the fastest-growing county in Pennsylvania each year since 2000. No other Pennsylvania county ranks in the national top 100 for growth rate over this time period. From 2000-2006, Forest County has actually had the largest percent population increase (31.5), but is not nationally ranked because it has a population below 10,000. Chester County was ranked in the top 100 counties for numeric growth, 86th in the nation with a population increase of 48,611 from the April 1, 2000 estimate base, to 482,112 in 2006. The commonwealth also boasted four counties among the top 100 largest nationally in 2006: Philadelphia, 24th (1,448,394), Allegheny, 30th (1,223,411), Montgomery, 69th (775,688) and Bucks, 95th (623,205). Philadelphia County slipped from 22nd in 2005 to 24th this year.


published: 3/22/2007 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfSt. Patrick’s Day Puts the Spotlight on Pennsylvania Irish-Americans hide

Grab your shillelagh and put on some green, because it’s almost St. Patrick’s Day, a freewheeling celebration of Irish culture and heritage, including the more than 2.1 million Pennsylvanians who claim Irish ancestry.


published: 3/16/2007 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfEstimates Indicate Number of Pennsylvania School-Age Children in Poverty Again on the Rise hide

New data from the Small Area Income & Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) program show that the estimated number of Pennsylvania school-age children in families in poverty increased 15,478 between 2003 and 2004, more than double the increase of the previous year. The 2004 SAIPE data, recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau, indicate that the estimated number of children ages 5 to 17 years old in poverty grew from 274,088 in 2003 to 289,566 in 2004, an increase of 5.6 percent. After briefly declining in 2000, the number and proportion of school-age children in poverty in Pennsylvania are again on the rise (see chart). Impoverished school-age children now comprise 14.2 percent of the population ages 5-17, 3 percent higher than 2000, but still below the national average of 16.2 percent. Pennsylvania ranks 27th nationally (including Washington, D.C.) in order of the highest proportion of school-age children in poverty. Overall, an estimated 446,151 children (ages 0-17) in the commonwealth live in poverty.


published: 1/16/2007 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Point to Slow Growth Trends, Importance of Migration in Pennsylvania hide

Today the Census Bureau released 2006 national and state population estimates showing that Pennsylvania’s population continues to grow more slowly than the nation as a whole. As of July 1, 2006, Pennsylvania’s population was 12,440,621, up 35,273 from 2005. Between July 1, 2005 and July 1, 2006, the Commonwealth’s population grew at a rate of 0.3 percent, compared to 1.0 percent for the United States. California remains the nation’s most populous state (36,457,549), but Texas gained more people than any other state between 2005 and 2006 (+579,275). Pennsylvania still ranks 6th nationally in total population behind Illinois (12,831,970). Since 2000, the Commonwealth’s population has grown by 159,567. The nation as a whole grew by 6.4 percent during this period, but Pennsylvania’s population increased just 1.3 percent (see chart). In terms of numeric growth, the Commonwealth ranked 22nd among the states from 2005-2006 and 25th between 2000 and 2006. However, Pennsylvania ranked just 37th and 47th in percent increase over the same periods.


published: 12/22/2006 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfThe Holiday Journey of a Pennsylvania Toy hide

Nearly every Christmas shopper will have a young boy or girl on his or her list this holiday season, and while a new sweater or coat may be practical, most children are looking forward to unwrapping that special toy. In celebration of the holiday season, the Pennsylvania State Data Center follows the statistical journey of a Pennsylvania toy from the manufacturer to Christmas gift.


published: 12/13/2006 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfVeterans Day hide

This Veterans Day, Pennsylvanians won’t have to look far to find a former serviceman to honor. As of 2000, more than 1.2 million Pennsylvanians (13.7 percent of the adult population) had served in the armed forces. The Commonwealth ranked behind just four other states (California, Florida, Texas, and New York) in the number of resident civilian veterans. An additional 7,595 Pennsylvanians were active duty military in 2000.


published: 11/8/2006 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs , Veterans

pdfPaSDC Releases the Pennsylvania Abstract, A Statistical Factbook: 2006, the Most Comprehensive Source Available for Facts and Figures about the Commonwealth hide

The most comprehensive collection of facts and figures about the Commonwealth is now available for 2006. The Pennsylvania Abstract, A Statistical Factbook: 2006, is published annually by the Pennsylvania State Data Center and provides the most accurate, up-to-date information about Pennsylvania. In addition to hundreds of data items compiled from state and federal agencies, the Abstract contains maps, and graphics that are regularly employed by the business community, planners, policy-makers, marketers, and researchers.


published: 10/23/2006 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfNew American Community Survey Data Shows Soaring Home Values, Other Housing Characteristics hide

The 2005 median housing value for owner-occupied housing units in Pennsylvania is $131,900 according to new housing characteristic data released by the U.S. Census Bureau for areas with populations of 65,000 or more. The data is from the 2005 American Community Survey (ACS), an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 census. The American Community Survey will replace the decennial census long form and provide more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year. Without the ACS, this type of information -historically gathered just once a decade- would not be available for communities until 2012.


published: 10/3/2006 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfGrowth of Pennsylvania Housing Units Sustained in 2005 hide

According to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Pennsylvania’s housing units grew to 5,422,362 in 2005, the 5th largest number of housing units in the nation. Between July 1, 2004 and July 1, 2005, the Commonwealth gained 36,636 housing units, a 0.7 percent increase. Since 2000, the number of housing units has increased by 172,611. The Commonwealth is among the top 20 states in the number of housing units gained since 2000, but ranks 45th in percent increase (3.3 percent). In terms of percent, Pennsylvania housing has grown about half as fast as the nation over the last five years.


published: 8/23/2006 | tags: Estimates Data , Housing , Research Briefs

pdfNew American Community Survey Data Released, First Data for Many Communities Since 2000 hide

The U.S. Census Bureau has released new demographic and social data for areas with populations of 65,000 or more. The data is from the 2005 American Community Survey (ACS), an integral part of the Census Bureau’s reengineered 2010 census. The American Community Survey will replace the decennial census long form and provide more timely and updated information about the nation’s changing and diverse population every year. Without the ACS, this type of information — historically gathered just once a decade — would not be available for communities until 2012.


published: 8/16/2006 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdf2005 Detailed Population Estimates Released: Pennsylvania’s Hispanic Population Passes 500,000 hide

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released July 1, 2005 estimates of the population based on sex, age, race and Hispanic origin. The release includes detailed estimates for Pennsylvania at the state and county levels. The data illustrates the commonwealth’s changing demographics, showing that minorities and persons of Hispanic origin now account for the majority of the population growth while several age groups, including persons 25-44 and the elderly, have declined.


published: 8/8/2006 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdf2005 Population Estimates Released for Pennsylvania Municipalities: Philadelphia Remains the Nation’s 5th Largest City hide

Today, the U.S. Census Bureau released July 1, 2005 population estimates showing that Philadelphia remains the nation’s 5th largest city. With a population of 1.46 million, Philadelphia still ranks ahead of Phoenix, Arizona by approximately 1,700 persons. However, Philadelphia continues to lose population, and the difference between the two cities has decreased significantly since 2004, when the gap was over 54,000 people. Pittsburgh (316,718) was the only other Pennsylvania city to rank among the top 100 cities nationally in population.


published: 6/21/2006 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s High School Graduates hide

Every year, June marks the annual rite of graduation for thousands of Pennsylvania high school students. Many of these students will be leaving for college in the fall, while others will join the workforce. Of Pennsylvania’s total enrollment of 2,123,868 children during the 2003-2004 school year, 141,053 or 6.6 percent graduated from high school.


published: 6/8/2006 | tags: Education , Research Briefs

pdfClosing the Earnings Gap in Pennsylvania 2006 hide

Equal pay for equal work is the law of the land but a new report, Closing the Earnings Gap in Pennsylvania 2006, reveals that a gender-based earnings gap still exists in the Commonwealth. In 2004, Pennsylvania’s female-to-male earnings ratio at the median for year-round, full-time workers 16 years and over was 74.5 percent, meaning that the median female worker earned roughly $0.75 for each dollar earned by the median male worker. The comparable statistic at the national level was 76.2 percent, indicating that Pennsylvania’s wage gap is slightly more pronounced than that of the nation as a whole.


published: 4/25/2006 | tags: Income , PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfMobile Homes in Pennsylvania hide

Recent media reports indicate that developers across the U.S. are purchasing trailer parks and replacing them with strip malls, townhouses, condominiums and big box stores. As affordable housing dwindles, states and counties are taking notice of their low-income mobile home residents.* Data from the 2004 American Community Survey (ACS) provides a picture of Pennsylvania’s mobile home communities and can answer important questions like: what are the characteristics of the commonwealth’s mobile home residents, and who will be affected by this trend in our state?


published: 4/21/2006 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Black-Owned Businesses Grow to Almost 25,000 hide

Black-owned businesses in Pennsylvania increased 25.1 percent between 1997 and 2002, according to a newly released U.S. Census Bureau report, 2002 Survey of Business Owners: Black-Owned Firms. The growth rate of the commonwealth’s Blackowned firms was more than 5 times the state average for all businesses (4.4 percent). More than 4,900 Black-owned firms have been added since 1997, bringing the total to 24,757. In contrast to Pennsylvania businesses as a whole, black-owned establishments have experienced steady growth since 1992.


published: 4/20/2006 | tags: Economy , Race , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Tax Revenues Increased Seven Percent in 2005 hide

Tax collections in Pennsylvania totaled $27.3 billion in 2005, an increase of $1.9 billion or 7.6 percent over 2004, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2005 Annual Survey of State Government Tax Collections. Since 2000, tax revenue in Pennsylvania has risen $4.8 billion, or 21.3 percent. Pennsylvanians paid an average of $2,193.32 to the state in 2005, slightly above the national average ($2,192.27) and a per capita increase of $148.23 from the previous year. The commonwealth ranks 17th nationally in per capita tax revenue growth since 2000 (+$363.92 per resident), but just 30th in per capita increase last year. Total tax revenue for all states grew 9.7 percent between 2004 and 2005, and since 2000, revenue has grown by 20.2 percent.


published: 4/6/2006 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Hispanic-Owned Businesses Grow by More Than A Third hide

Hispanic-owned businesses in Pennsylvania increased 40 percent between 1997 and 2002, according to a newly released U.S. Census Bureau report, 2002 Survey of Business Owners: Hispanic-Owned Firms. The growth rate of the commonwealth’s Hispanic-owned firms was 9 percent higher than the national average and more than 9 times the state average for all businesses (4.4 percent). More than 3,000 Hispanic-owned firms have been added in Pennsylvania since 1997, bringing the total to 11,023. The growth in Hispanic-owned businesses mirrors the increase in Hispanic population during this period. Pennsylvania’s Hispanic population grew 36.6 percent from 1997-2002, while the total population grew by just 2.7 percent. Still, persons of Hispanic or Latino origin accounted for just 3.4 percent of Pennsylvania’s population in 2002, and 1.3 percent of all businesses.


published: 3/22/2006 | tags: Economy , Race , Research Briefs

pdf2005 Pennsylvania County Population Estimates Released hide

Pike County is Pennsylvania’s fastest growing county and ranks 72nd in the nation in percent increase, according to the 2005 county population estimates just released by the U.S. Census Bureau. Pike County’s population grew to 56,337 in 2005, an increase of 2,296 persons, or 4.2 percent over 2004. No other Pennsylvania counties ranked in the top 100 nationally in percent growth for this period. Chester and York counties were both among the top 100 counties in numeric growth between 2004 and 2005. Chester ranked 80th nationally, and grew to 474,027, an increase of 7,984, or 1.7 percent. York’s population of 408,801 has grown by 7,738, or 1.9 percent since 2004, and now ranks 85th nationally. The commonwealth also counted four counties among the 100 largest nationally in 2005: Philadelphia, 22nd (1,463,281), Allegheny, 30th (1,235,841), Montgomery, 67th (775,883), and Bucks, 95th (621,342).


published: 3/16/2006 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfThe Elderly (65+) in the United States: 2005 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released a Special Studies report, 65+ in the United States: 2005. Commissioned by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), a component of the National Institutes of Health, the report provides a picture of the health and socioeconomic status of the aging population. It highlights striking shifts in aging on a population scale and also describes changes at the local and family levels, examining, for example, changes in family structure as a result of divorce. The report also analyzes data for the population age 65 and older, disaggregated into narrower age groups where possible. Topics covered in the study include: population growth, longevity and health, economic characteristics, geographic distribution, social profile, diversity by race and Hispanic origin, and future implications.


published: 3/9/2006 | tags: Age , Research Briefs

pdfACS Tables Illustrate Aging, Poverty Status, and Other Characteristics of Pennsylvanians hide

Subject tables from the 2004 American Community Survey (ACS) detailing age, poverty, fertility, and other characteristics of Pennsylvanians are now available through the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg. The American Community Survey, conducted annually by the U.S. Census Bureau, currently collects data at the state and selected county and municipal levels on population, socio-economic characteristics, and dozens of other topics. The 2004 subject tables combine specific characteristics of individuals, households, and families that would normally be found in separate tables to illustrate particular themes, such as poverty status, origin and language, education, or fertility.


published: 2/9/2006 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Spent More Than $4,000 per Resident in 2004 hide

Pennsylvania spent $4,627.54 per resident in 2004, 26th in the nation,according to newly released data from the 2004 Annual Survey of Government Finances. Alaska led the nation with per capita expenditures of $12,293.68, and state government per capita spending averaged $4,797.08. The commonwealth ranked 6th nationally in both total revenue ($69.2 billion) and expenditures ($57.4 billion).


published: 2/9/2006 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfPer Capita Income in Pennsylvania Reaches $33,000 hide

Per capita personal income in Pennsylvania reached $33,257 in 2004 and ranked 18th nationally, according to the January issue of the Survey of Business, recently released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). Per capita personal income in the commonwealth increased $1,527 between 2003 and 2004, and has increased by more than $5,000 since 1999.


published: 1/25/2006 | tags: Income , Research Briefs

pdfWomen-Owned Businesses Grew More than Twice Pennsylvania’s Average hide

Women-owned businesses in Pennsylvania increased at more than double the state’s rate of growth between 1997 and 2002, according to a newly released Census Bureau report, 2002 Survey of Business Owners: Women-Owned Firms. The report shows that after falling in 1997, the number of Pennsylvania businesses owned by women grew 11.9 percent between 1997 and 2002, below the national rate of 20 percent, but faster than the 4.4 percent growth rate for all firms in the state. The 24,129 firms added during this period bring the number of women-owned businesses to 227,119, or 26.0 percent of the total businesses in the state. Women-owned businesses (192,494) represented an even higher proportion (29.7 percent) of firms with no paid employees. The number of people employed by women-owned businesses (280,654) also grew at twice the commonwealth’s rate (+8.8) and their businesses supported a payroll of $6.3 billion. Women-owned businesses also took in $39.1 billion in revenue in 2002, about 4.1 percent of the state total. In comparison with other states, the commonwealth had the third lowest rate (45.7) of women-owned firms per 1,000 adult women.


published: 1/25/2006 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Receives $94.9 Billion in Federal Funds, 5th Highest in Nation hide

Pennsylvania received $94.9 billion dollars in federal funding in 2004 according to the recently released Consolidated Federal Funds Report for Fiscal Year 2004. The commonwealth’s share of funding represents 4.4 percent of the $2.2 trillion spent by the federal government and ranks 5th among the states.


published: 1/5/2006 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Indicate Slow Growth Trends, Increased Migration to Pennsylvania hide

Today the Census Bureau released population estimates for 2005 that again show Pennsylvania’s population growing more slowly than the nation as a whole. As of July 1, 2005, Pennsylvania’s population was 12,429,616, up 35,145 (+0.3 percent) from 2004. California was the nation’s most populous state in 2005 (36,132,147), and Pennsylvania ranked 6th nationally behind Illinois (12,763,731). Since 2000, the commonwealth’s population has grown by 148,562, an average annual increase of 29,712. The nation as a whole grew by 5.3 percent during this period, but Pennsylvania’s population increased just 1.2 percent. In terms of numeric growth, the commonwealth ranked 20th among the states from 2004-2005, and 24th from 2000-2005. In population percent increase, Pennsylvania ranked 43rd and 46th nationally over the 2004-2005 and 2000-2005 periods.


published: 12/22/2005 | tags: Estimates Data , Migration , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 60 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that beginning in 2006, the oldest group of baby boomers will turn 60 years of age. Baby boomers, perhaps the most famous generation in the nation’s history, are those people born between 1946 and 1964. The baby boomer generation began following World War II and was notable for increased birth rates and prosperity that continued for about 18 years.


published: 12/20/2005 | tags: Age , Research Briefs

pdfThe 2005 Holiday Season hide

The holiday season, with its many traditions, family gatherings, and good feelings, is almost here. In celebration of the season, the Pennsylvania State Data Center presents the following holiday facts and figures.


published: 12/15/2005 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfEstimates Indicate Number of School-Age Children in Poverty Again on the Rise hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the estimated number of Pennsylvania school-age children in families in poverty increased by 6,208 between 2002 and 2003. Data from the 2003 Small Area Income & Poverty Estimates (SAIPE), recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau, indicates that the estimated number of children ages 5 to 17 years old in poverty rose from 268,293 in 2002 to 274,501 in 2003, an increase of 2.3 percent. After declining in the late 1990s, the number and proportion of school-age children in poverty in Pennsylvania has consistently risen since 2000, signaling a trend that is not just tied to population increase. Impoverished school-age children now comprise 13.2 percent of the population ages 5-17, 2 percent more than in 2000, but still below the national average of 16.1 percent. Pennsylvania ranks 27th nationally (excluding Washington, D.C.) in order of the highest proportion of schoolage children in poverty. Overall, more than 420,000 children (ages 0-17) in the commonwealth live in poverty.


published: 12/5/2005 | tags: Income , Poverty , Research Briefs

pdfThanksgiving Day –November 24, 2005 hide

What many regard as the nation’s first Thanksgiving took place in December 1621 when the religious separatist Pilgrims held a three-day feast to celebrate a bountiful harvest. The day did not become a national holiday until 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a national day of thanksgiving. Later, President Franklin Roosevelt clarified that Thanksgiving should always be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of the month to encourage earlier holiday shopping, never on the occasional fifth Thursday.


published: 11/18/2005 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Release Provides New Opportunity to Analyze Commuter Effects on Daytime Population in Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau has released the first-ever estimates of daytime population in cities and counties based on Census 2000 data. The concept of daytime population refers to the number of people, including workers, who are present in an area during normal business hours, in contrast to the resident population during the evening and nighttime hours. The estimates give planners and officials the opportunity to analyze an issue that is of increasing importance to cities and counties across the country: the effects of a growing commuter workforce. In light of recent events like Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the daytime population of cities could figure prominently in future disaster and transportation planning.


published: 10/31/2005 | tags: 2000 Census , Commuting Statistics , Research Briefs

pdfHalloween in Pennsylvania - October 31, 2005 hide

The observance of Halloween, which dates from the Dark Ages, has long been associated with thoughts of witches, ghosts, devils and hobgoblins. In the United States, the first recorded instance of a Halloween celebration occurred in Anoka, Minnesota in 1921, but Allentown, Pennsylvania claims one of the nation’s longest running Halloween parades, dating to 1905. Over the years, the customs and rituals associated with Halloween have changed dramatically. Today, many of the young and “young-at-heart” take a more light-hearted approach — donning a scary disguise or one that may bring on smiles when they go door-to-door for treats or attend or host a Halloween party.


published: 10/20/2005 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Release Offers First Analysis of Links Between, Marriage, Fertility, and Other Socioeconomic Characteristics in Pennsylvania hide

Today, the U.S. Census Bureau released a new analysis that looks at links between marriage, fertility, and other socioeconomic characteristics, and provides the first-ever state-by-state analysis of median age at first marriage. The analysis of the multi-year marriage and fertility data from the American Community Survey (ACS) also shows how socioeconomic characteristics such as mother’s income, age, work status and language spoken at home correlate with birth rates.


published: 10/13/2005 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Research Briefs

pdfNational Hispanic Heritage Month: September 15 to October 15 Pennsylvania’s Hispanic Population Nears 500,000 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month. America and Pennsylvania celebrate the culture and traditions of those residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South American and the Caribbean from September 15 to October 15. The origins of Hispanic Heritage Month can be traced backed to 1968 when Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim a week in September as National Heritage Week. The observance was extended to a month (September 15 to October 15) in 1988. September 15 was chosen as the starting date for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.


published: 10/5/2005 | tags: Ethnicity , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Report on Metropolitan/Micropolitan Statistical Areas East Stroudsburg Micropolitan Statistical Area 3rd Fastest Growing in Nation hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has today released a report on metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas for the nation. The report: Population Change in Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas: 1990 to 2003, examines the population of metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas of the U.S., focusing on size, most populous areas and fastest-growing areas. The report uses the December 2003 definitions of core-based statistical areas (CBSAs) from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. CBSAs consist of one or more whole counties or their equivalents and are designated as either metro areas or micro areas. Metro areas contain at least one urbanized area of 50,000 or more people and micro areas — a new statistical geography — contain at least one urban cluster of 10,000 to 50,000 people. The report also uses U.S. Census Bureau estimates and estimates of the components of population change to arrive at July 1, 2003 population estimates.


published: 9/22/2005 | tags: MSA-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdf2004 Income, Poverty, and Health Insurance Coverage Data Shows Stable Household Income, Increased Poverty Rates in Pennsylvania hide

Yesterday, the Census Bureau released Current Population Survey and American Community Survey reports on income, poverty, earnings, and health insurance coverage. The simultaneous releases provide a range of data from the national to the local level, and highlight the differences between data available from the Current Population Survey and the American Community Survey, a major part of the Census Bureau’s re-engineered 2010 census plan. The data for Pennsylvania shows stable median household income but rising poverty rates in 2004.


published: 8/31/2005 | tags: American Community Survey Data , Health Insurance , Income , Poverty , Research Briefs

pdfExperts Address Demographic and Socio-Economic Issues in Pennsylvania at Annual Data User Conference hide

Users of demographic and socio-economic data in Pennsylvania are expected to converge on Harrisburg this year for the state’s Annual Data User Conference. Hosted by the Pennsylvania State Data Center, based at Penn State Harrisburg, the Annual Data User conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey September 20, 2005.


published: 8/17/2005 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases 2004 State and County Population Estimates by Sex, Age, Race and Hispanic Origin for Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau has released July 1, 2004 estimates of the population based on sex, age, race and Hispanic origin. The release includes detailed estimates for Pennsylvania at the state and county levels. In 2004, Pennsylvania’s estimated population rose to 12,406,292, an increase of 125,238 persons since 2000.


published: 8/15/2005 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfAnnual Data User Conference coming to Harrisburg September 20 hide

Pennsylvania’s most comprehensive forum for the latest research and developments in demographic data is coming to Harrisburg in September. The Annual Data User Conference, hosted by the Pennsylvania State Data Center based at Penn State Harrisburg, will be at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey September 20, 2005.


published: 7/22/2005 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Data on Health Insurance Coverage for States and Counties Shows 1.2 Million Pennsylvanians Without Coverage hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released experimental estimates on the number of people covered by health insurance for states and counties. This data, Small Area Health Insurance Estimates (SAHIE), provides information on the total population with and without health insurance coverage as well as the same data for children under the age of 18. These estimates are for 2000.


published: 7/22/2005 | tags: Health Insurance , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases State & County Housing Unit Estimates for 2004 – New Housing in Pennsylvania Continues to Grow hide

Following national trends, the number of housing units in Pennsylvania increased for the fifth straight year. Between 2003 and 2004, Pennsylvania gained an additional 34,938 housing units, up from the 32,673 reported the year before. Since the 2000 Census (estimates base), Pennsylvania has gained an estimated 135,978 additional housing units, and is currently fifth among the states with an estimated 5,385,729 units. This data is based on the 2004 State and County Housing Unit Estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates were compiled using the estimates base from April 1, 2000 (Census Day), and were carried forward to July 1, 2004.


published: 7/21/2005 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Working Paper Provides Historical Race Data for Pennsylvania Large Cities hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released a working paper that illustrates how the composition of race and Hispanic origin has changed over the years in 306 cities nationally. The report, titled, Historical Census Statistics on Population Totals by Race, 1790 to 1990, and by Hispanic Origin, 1970 to 1990, for Large Cities and Other Urban Places in the United States, provides data for 224 places that had a census population of 100,000 or more at some point during the 1790 to 1990 period, as well as another 82 places that were historically among the largest in the state.


published: 7/13/2005 | tags: Ethnicity , Race , Research Briefs

pdf2001-2004 Pennsylvania County Industry Trends Report Now Available hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg announces the release of Pennsylvania County Industry Trends, 2001-2004. The report provides information on business establishments and average monthly employment by NAICS code for the second quarters of 2001 through 2004. Pennsylvania County Industry Trends is produced annually by the Pennsylvania State Data Center in partnership with Penn State University’s Technical Assistance Program (PENNTAP), Team Pennsylvania Foundation, and the Pennsylvania State Department of Labor and Industry’s Center for Workforce Information and Analysis. The data in this report applies only to employers covered under Pennsylvania’s Unemployment Compensation Law. These employers account for about 95 percent of all of Pennsylvania’s nonagricultural wage and salary employment.


published: 7/7/2005 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases Population Estimates for Pennsylvania Cities, Boroughs and Townships- Philadelphia Remains Nation’s 5th Largest City hide

Today, the U.S. Census Bureau released July 1, 2004 population estimates showing that Philadelphia remains the nation’s 5th largest city. Philadelphia, with a population of 1.47 million, still ranks ahead of Phoenix, Arizona by approximately 52,000 persons in the list of the nation’s ten largest cities. This difference has decreased significantly since Census 2000, when the gap was over 196,000 people.


published: 6/30/2005 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases State Population Projections: Pennsylvania continues slow growth hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania will grow to a population of 12,768,184 people by the year 2030 and maintain its position as the nation’s 6th largest state. This data, released today, is from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Population Division and were developed for each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia by age and sex for the years 2004 to 2030. The projections are based on results from Census 2000.


published: 4/21/2005 | tags: Projections , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases County Population Estimates for 2004 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Chester County ranked 72nd nationally in numerical population increase from July 1, 2003 to July 1, 2004. Chester County increased from 458,057 persons in 2003 to 465,795 persons in 2004, an increase of 7,738, or 1.7 percent. No other Pennsylvania county ranked in the top 100 in numeric or percent increase in population from 2003 to 2004. This data is based on the 2004 County Population Estimates that were released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates used April 1, 2000 as a base and were carried forward to July 1, 2004, based on birth, death and migration data.


published: 4/14/2005 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfNew Information from U.S. Census Bureau Provides Educational Attainment Data for Pennsylvania hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that data released today for the year 2004 by the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that 86.5 percent of Pennsylvania’s population age 25 years and over are high school graduates or higher and that 25.3 percent of this same population have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. Both of these numbers are increases from 2003 when 86.0 percent of the population age 25 years and over had at least a high school diploma and 24.8 percent obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher. A comparison to data collected from Census 2000 also supports this positive trend in educational attainment in Pennsylvania. The data released today were collected in the Annual Social and Economic Supplement to the Current Population Survey (CPS). As in all surveys, the CPS data are subject to sampling variability and other sources of error.


published: 3/28/2005 | tags: Education , Research Briefs

pdfIrish-American Heritage Month (March) & St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) hide

Although not an “official” holiday in the United States, St. Patrick’s Day has a long history of being celebrated with parades and general goodwill for all things Irish. There are many parades scheduled throughout the state, including one in Harrisburg on Saturday, March 19 at 2:00 p.m.


published: 3/11/2005 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases July 1, 2004 Population Estimates, Pennsylvania School-Age Population Declines hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the number of school-age children (ages 5 to 17) has declined in Pennsylvania. This data is from the July 1, 2004 state population estimates released today by the Census Bureau. The number of school-age children ages 5 to 17 has declined by 16,722 from 2003 to 2004, a decrease of 0.8 percent. From April 1, 2000 (Census Day) to July 1, 2004, the number in this age group declined by 76,533, or 3.5 percent. From July 1, 2003 to July 1, 2004 the number of children under age 5 has increased by 7,005, a 1.0 percent increase. However, the population of children under age 5 decreased by 8,679, or 1.2 percent from April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2004.


published: 3/10/2005 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfValentine’s Day is All Business for Pennsylvania hide

One legend has it that Valentine’s Day originated to commemorate the anniversary of the death of St. Valentine, a Roman clergyman who was executed on Feb.14, about 270 A.D., for secretly marrying couples in defiance of the emperor. According to another, the holiday began as a Roman fertility festival. Americans probably began exchanging handmade valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther Howland (1828-1904), a native of Massachusetts, began to sell the nation’s first mass-produced valentines.


published: 2/14/2005 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania to Celebrate Black History Month in February hide

To recall and celebrate the positive contributions made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week on Feb. 12, 1926. For many years, the second week of February was set aside for this celebration to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and African-American abolitionist/editor Frederick Douglass. In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, the week was expanded into Black History Month.


published: 1/31/2005 | tags: Race , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases July1, 2004 National and State Population Estimates Nation Gained 3 Million People Last Year, Commonwealth Increased by 35,531 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has today released the July 1, 2004 National and State Population Estimates and Estimated Components of Change. The data shows that the nation’s population grew by 1.0 percent (2.9 million people) between July 1, 2003 and July 1, 2004. The United States estimated population as of July 1, 2004 is 293,655,404. Pennsylvania’s estimated population grew to 12,406,292 during the same time frame, a growth rate of 0.3 percent.


published: 12/22/2004 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2004-2005 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released the latest edition of the Nation’s Data Book. The Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2004-2005, published since 1878, is now available. The 1,000-plus-page edition introduces 68 new tables covering topics such as enrollment and teachers for the largest public school districts; asset ownership rates for households; and transit ridership in the 50 largest urbanized areas. The new edition has nearly 1,400 tables and charts with statistics from the most recent year or period available.


published: 12/9/2004 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfNumber of Estimated School-Age Children in Poverty Increases by Over 9,000 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the estimated number of school-age children in poverty in Pennsylvania school districts increased by over 9,000 from 2001 to 2002. This data is from the recently released Small Area Income & Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) from the U.S. Census Bureau. The data indicates the estimated number of relevant children age 5 to 17 years old in poverty in Pennsylvania public schools increased from 259,102 in 2001 to 268,293 in 2002, an increase of 9,191 or 3.5 percent.


published: 12/8/2004 | tags: Poverty , Research Briefs

pdf2004 Deer Season to begin statewide on November 29th hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the 2004 statewide rifle-hunting season for antlered and antlerless deer will take place from November 29th through December 11th.


published: 11/24/2004 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania County Industry Trends, 2001-2003 Report Now Available hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg announces the release of Pennsylvania County Industry Trends, 2001-2003. Pennsylvania County Industry Trends, 2001-2003 provides information on business establishments and average monthly employment for the second quarter of the years 2001 through 2003 by county and industrial sector. The data in this report applies only to employers covered under Pennsylvania’s Unemployment Compensation Law. These employers account for about 95 percent of all of Pennsylvania’s nonagricultural wage and salary employment.


published: 11/2/2004 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Receives $90 Billion in Government Outlays, 5th Highest in Nation hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that of the $2.1 trillion spent by the federal government in 2003, $90 billion was directed to Pennsylvania, or 4.4 percent of the federal total. This data is from two reports released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Consolidated Federal Funds Report for Fiscal Year 2003 (State and County Areas) covers benefits, subsidies, grants, goods and services and salaries and wages. A companion report, Federal Aid to States for Fiscal Year 2003, contains federal agency and program-level data on grants to state and local governments.


published: 10/12/2004 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdf2004 Annual Data User Conference Opening Session Focuses on “The State of the State’s Data” hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that the opening session of this year’s data user conference will feature a session entitled: “The State of the State’s Data.” Veteran statistical experts from Pennsylvania Departments of Health, Labor and Industry, Education and Welfare will share thoughts on the evolving directions of data collection and reporting in the commonwealth. In addition, panelists will report on recent accomplishments agencies have put in place to improve access and reliability for the public.


published: 8/19/2004 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases State & County Housing Unit Estimates for 2003 hide

Pennsylvania gained 115,735 additional housing units between the April 1, 2000, base count (5,249,751) and the July 1, 2003, estimate (5,365,486). This represents a 2.2 percent increase. This increase of over 115,000 housing units ranked Pennsylvania 15th nationally in numeric change during this time period. This data is based on the 2003 State and County Housing Unit Estimates that were released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates were compiled using the estimates base from April 1, 2000 (Census Day), and were carried forward to July 1, 2003.


published: 7/23/2004 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfThe Pennsylvania State Data Center’s 2004 Annual Data User Conference: Managing Pennsylvania’s Data With New-Age Technology hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg is proud to announce that the 2004 Annual Data User Conference will be held on Thursday, September 16th at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey. The title of this year’s conference is: Managing Pennsylvania’s Data With New-Age Technology. Conference activities will include guest speakers, breakout sessions and U.S. Census Bureau training and information sessions.


published: 7/22/2004 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfNew Census Bureau Estimates Show Philadelphia Remains Nation’s 5th Largest City hide

New population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show that Philadelphia remains the nation’s 5th largest city. This data, from today’s release of subcounty population estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau, shows that Philadelphia, with a population of approximately 1.5 million, still ranks ahead of Phoenix, Arizona by approximately 91,000 persons in the list of the nation’s ten largest cities. This difference has decreased significantly since Census 2000 when the gap was over 196,000 people. The rankings show a change from Census 2000 with Dallas moving up to 8th position over San Antonio.


published: 6/24/2004 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfLow to Moderate Household Income Summary Data Available from HUD hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that low to moderate household income summary data estimates have been made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This summary data is available for the block group geographic level designated by the U.S. Census Bureau. Each block group is identified by its Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) code in addition to the HUD Unit-of-Government-Identification-Code for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) grantee with jurisdiction over the block group area. These estimates can be used to develop grant proposals, focus on areas that need special attention and provide supplementary demographic information.


published: 5/5/2004 | tags: Income , Research Briefs

pdfCounty Population Estimates Released for 2003: Pike County Among Nation’s 100 Fastest Growing Counties hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Chester County (87th) and Montgomery County (97th) ranked in the nation’s 100 counties with the largest population gains from April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2003. This data is based on the 2003 County Population Estimates that were released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates used April 1, 2000 (Census Day), as a base and were carried forward to July 1, 2003, based on birth, death and migration data. Pike County (85th) had the highest population percentage increase in the state and was the commonwealth’s lone entry on the list of the Nation’s 100 Fastest Growing Counties in 2003. Pike County was ranked 81st on this list in 2002.


published: 4/8/2004 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases National Population Projections hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that today the U.S. Census Bureau released interim population projections for the United States. Using the year 2000 as a base, the nation’s population has been projected out to the year 2050 by age, sex, race and Hispanic origin.


published: 3/18/2004 | tags: Projections , Research Briefs

pdfPaSDC Releases Updated Pennsylvania Facts Brochure hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that an updated Pennsylvania Facts brochure is now available. The Pennsylvania Facts brochure has been an information resource provided by the Pennsylvania State Data Center since 2002. The first update, released in 2003, featured demographic data compiled from responses to the long-form 2000 Decennial Census questionnaire. The current brochure features updated state and federal data relating to health, education, employment and other demographics.


published: 3/9/2004 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases Profile of Voting-Age Population hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau today released Census 2000 tabulations on the voting-age population by citizenship for each state and county in the country. Additional tables show national and state voting-age populations and their citizenship status by race and ethnicity. This data was compiled based on responses to the 2000 Decennial Census long-form questionnaire, which was sent to roughly 1 in 6 households nationwide.


published: 3/4/2004 | tags: Elections , Research Briefs

pdfVoter Registration in Pennsylvania Increases 2.4 Percent hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the number of registered voters increased 2.4 percent from April 2000 to November 2003. This data, from the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Bureau of Commissions, Elections & Legislation, shows that the number of persons registered to vote in Pennsylvania increased from 7,527,499 in April 2000, the month Census 2000 was conducted, to 7,710,601 persons in November 2003. This represents an increase of 183,102 voters.


published: 2/12/2004 | tags: Elections , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Celebrates Black History Month hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that February marks the nationwide observance of Black History Month.


published: 2/3/2004 | tags: Race , Research Briefs

pdfEqual Employment Opportunity (EEO) File Released for Pennsylvania hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports the U.S. Census Bureau recently released data on earnings, age, gender and race for Pennsylvania’s workers. Census 2000 Special Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Tabulation was released on December 29, 2003, and contains information on the number of people employed in nearly 500 occupations. Data cover gender, race, ethnicity, education, age, industry and earnings. In addition, information is also available on where workers live, where they work, and how many work in one place and live somewhere else.


published: 1/8/2004 | tags: Employment , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Continues to Show Slight Population Increase hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released the 2003 National and State Population Estimates and Estimated Components of Change. The July 1, 2003 Estimates are developed by carrying forward births, deaths and migration data from April 1, 2000 (estimate base). An estimated 12,365,455 persons resided in Pennsylvania in 2003. This is a 0.7 percent increase from the 2000 estimate base of 12,281,054 persons, a 0.5 percent increase from the 2001 estimate of 12,298,363 persons and a 0.3 percent increase from the 2002 estimate of 12,328,827 persons.


published: 12/18/2003 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Lists State Rankings hide

Since 1878, the U.S. Census Bureau has published the Statistical Abstract of the United States on a yearly basis. This publication is the standard summary of statistics on the social, political and economic organization of the nation. It also serves as a guide to other statistical publications and sources that may be more geographically detailed or cover a specific topic in more depth.


published: 11/6/2003 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Report on Health Insurance Coverage hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released its annual report on health insurance coverage. This report was compiled from responses to the Current Population Survey (CPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Current Population Survey is a monthly survey that has been conducted for more than 50 years.


published: 10/1/2003 | tags: Health Insurance , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Reports on Income and Poverty hide

The U.S. Census Bureau released its annual reports on income and poverty on Friday, September 26, 2003. These reports are compiled from responses to the Current Population Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.


published: 9/30/2003 | tags: Income , Poverty , Research Briefs

pdfState and County Population Estimates by Sex, Age, Race and Hispanic Origin Released by U.S. Census Bureau hide

The U.S. Census Bureau has released July 1, 2002 estimates of the population based on sex, age, race and Hispanic origin for states and counties. These are the first such county estimates to be released by the Census Bureau since Census 2000.


published: 9/23/2003 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfEverything You Need to Know About Pennsylvania and More . . . hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg has announced that the 2003 Pennsylvania Abstract is now available. This publication is the most comprehensive compendium of facts and figures about the commonwealth. Compiled from information provided by state and federal agencies, the 2003 Pennsylvania Abstract contains hundreds of data items, maps and graphics. This publication is an invaluable asset to those in the business community, planners, policy makers, marketers and researchers.


published: 9/4/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfKeynote Speaker to Discuss Issues Related to Pennsylvania’s Brain Drain at 2003 Annual Data User Conference hide

The keynote speaker for the 2003 Annual Data User Conference, hosted by the Pennsylvania State Data Center, will be Dr. Gordon F. De Jong. Dr. De Jong is a Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Demography Director of the Graduate Program in Demography at the Pennsylvania State University. The topic of the Keynote Speech will be based on the issue paper published by the PaSDC that Dr. De Jong co-authored titled Pennsylvania’s Brain Drain Migration and Labor Force Education Gap, 2000. This year’s conference is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 18, 2003, at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey.


published: 9/3/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases County-to-County Migration Flows for Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau has released today, the County-to County Migration Flows for Pennsylvania. This data, collected from the long form questionnaire from Census 2000, documents migratory patterns from 1995 to 2000. This data shows that the number of people moving into Pennsylvania from 1995 to 2000 was 668,753 while the number of people moving out of the state was 800,049. In Pennsylvania, the 5-year net migration (in-migrants minus out-migrants) was –131,296. Pennsylvania lost 11.4 people per 1,000 residents from 1995 to 2000.


published: 8/11/2003 | tags: Migration , Research Briefs

pdf2003 Annual Data User Conference: Pennsylvania’s Most Comprehensive Workshop on Census, State Agency and Research Data hide

It’s time once again for the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg to host its annual Data User Conference. This year’s conference will take place on Thursday, September 18, 2003 at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg/Hershey. Conference activities will include guest speakers, breakout sessions and U.S. Census Bureau special topic sessions.


published: 8/7/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdf2001-2002 Industry Trends Report Now Available hide

Industry classification systems have changed, and this change is reflected in the new report, Pennsylvania County Industry Trends 2001-2002. The North American Industry Classification (NAICS) system developed by the United States, Canada and Mexico is the industry classification system used in this report. Previous reports used the Standard Industry Classification (SIC) system. This report was produced by the Pennsylvania State Data Center in partnership with Penn State University’s Technical Assistance Program (PENNTAP), Team Pennsylvania Foundation and the Center for Workforce Information and Analysis.


published: 8/4/2003 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases State & County Housing Unit Estimates for 2002 hide

Pennsylvania gained 78,501 additional housing units between the April 1, 2000 base count (5,249,750) and the July 1, 2002 estimate (5,328,251). This data is based on the 2002 State and County Housing Unit Estimates that were released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates were compiled using the estimates base from April 1, 2000 (Census Day), and were carried forward to July 1, 2002.


published: 7/18/2003 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfNew Census Bureau Estimates Show Philadelphia Remains Nation’s 5th Largest City hide

New population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show that Philadelphia remains the nation’s 5th largest city. This data, from today’s release of sub-county population estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau, shows that Philadelphia, with a population of approximately 1.5 million, still ranks ahead of Phoenix, Arizona by approximately 120,000 persons in the list of the nation’s ten largest cities. The estimates show no change in the rankings of the ten largest cities since Census 2000.


published: 7/10/2003 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Ranks 5th in Federal Domestic Spending in 2002 hide

The federal government spent $1.9 trillion in the states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and other outlying areas during 2002, according to reports released on June 4, 2003, by the U.S. Census Bureau. Consolidated Federal Funds Report for Fiscal Year 2002 (State and County Areas) covers benefits, subsidies, grants, goods and services, and salaries and wages. The largest item excluded from this report is interest paid on the federal debt. The companion report, Federal Aid to States for Fiscal Year 2002 contains federal agency and program-level data on grants to state and local governments.


published: 7/3/2003 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfOffice of Management and Budget Announces Revisions to Metropolitan Statistical Area Definitions and Designations Nationwide hide

The Harrisburg-Lebanon-Carlisle Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has changed its designation. The Harrisburg-Carlisle MSA and the Lebanon MSA are each now recognized as metropolitan statistical areas on their own terms. Together, the two MSAs now form the Harrisburg-Lebanon-Carlisle Combined Statistical Area. In addition, Armstrong County was added to the Pittsburgh MSA, which now comprises six counties.


published: 6/18/2003 | tags: MSA-Level Data , Research Briefs

pdfSample Data Released Today for Individual Census Respondents from Pennsylvania hide

The U.S. Census Bureau today released the1-Percent Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) Files for Pennsylvania. This is the first of two microdata file releases for Census 2000. A 5-percent PUMS file will be released at a later date. The PUMS files are compiled from responses to the Decennial Census questionnaires.


published: 6/4/2003 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania German Population Featured in Census Bureau’s Summary File 4 Release hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has today released the Census 2000 Summary File 4 (SF4) data for Pennsylvania. This release presents population, housing and socio-economic data down to the census tract level. The Summary File 4 data release is compiled from responses to the long-form questionnaire and features topics from the short-form questionnaire.


published: 5/28/2003 | tags: Ethnicity , Research Briefs

pdfPaSDC To Present Lecture on Health Care and Prescription Drug Coverage For Older Pennsylvanians hide

In the fall of 2001, the PACE/PACENET Program within the Pennsylvania Department of Aging contracted with Penn State Harrisburg’s Center for Survey Research to conduct a statewide survey of older Pennsylvanians. The study measured the extent and nature of both general health care and prescription drug coverage for this particular population, and it explored differences within certain socio-economic and demographic groups related to coverage. The data yielded initial answers to questions about health care coverage, current levels of prescription coverage, and utilization of prescription drugs for residents age 65 and over.


published: 5/1/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfCounty Population Estimates Released for 2002: Philadelphia, Allegheny, Montgomery and Bucks Among Nation’s 100 Largest Counties hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Philadelphia (20th), Allegheny (29th), Montgomery (66th) and Bucks (98th) counties ranked in the list of the Nation’s 100 Largest Counties in 2002. This data is based on the 2002 County Population Estimates that were released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates used April 1, 2000 (Census Day), as a base and were carried forward to July 1, 2002, based on birth, death and migration data. Western and southern states accounted for twelve of the top twenty spots on the list with California accounting for six spots on its own. Pike County (81st) had the highest population percentage increase in the state and was the commonwealth’s lone entry on the list of the Nation’s 100 Fastest Growing Counties in 2002.


published: 4/17/2003 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfReport Released on Pennsylvania’s Brain Drain hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg has published a new report by Gordon F. De Jong and Michele Steinmetz of the Population Research Institute at The Pennsylvania State University. Trend data for 1995-2001 was provided by The Pennsylvania State Data Center. The report, titled Pennsylvania’s Brain Drain Migration and Labor Force Education Gap, 2000, bases its findings on data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey.


published: 4/16/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfIssue Paper Released on Policing Persons with Mental Illness hide

“Police officers fear persons with mental illness because they believe that most, if not all, are dangerous, or at the very least, unpredictable. Persons with mental illness have reason to fear the police because they have the power to take them from their homes to a place that most do not want to go. For the most part, neither has an understanding of the other, which sets the stage for a physical confrontation.”


published: 4/3/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdf108th Congressional District Data Released by Census Bureau hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released Summary File 1 and Summary File 3 data for the 108th Congressional Districts. The newly drawn districts were developed based on the results of the 2000 Census population counts. After redistricting was completed, Pennsylvania’s total number of Congressional seats decreased from twentyone to nineteen.


published: 3/17/2003 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdf2000 County-to-County Worker Flow Commuter Files: Where Do People Work and Where Do People Live hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released Census 2000 County-to-County Worker Flow files. These files were compiled from responses to Census 2000 long-form questionnaires on where people worked. These files allow users to look at the number of people who work in a county during the reference week and determine where they reside whether in an adjacent county or in another state. The data is available at the county level for the United States, individual states and the District of Columbia.


published: 3/6/2003 | tags: Commuting Statistics , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania State Data Center Announces 2003 Spring Lecture Series hide

Please join the Pennsylvania State Data Center for our Spring 2003 Lecture Series. The lectures will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Penn State Downtown Center, located at 234 North Third Street, directly across from the Capitol Building in downtown Harrisburg.


published: 2/27/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Ready for Valentine’s Day hide

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? If you’re looking to buy a gift, novelty or souvenir for that special someone, then you’re in luck. According to the 1997 Economic Census, there were 37,285 such establishments, with sales of $14.5 billion and 208,371 paid employees.


published: 2/13/2003 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfDeadline for Economic Census Form Nears hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania businesses have until February 12, 2003, to complete and return their 2002 Economic Census form. Every 5 years the Economic Census develops a comprehensive portrait of the American Economy from the national to local level. In December, forms were mailed to 210,000 businesses in Pennsylvania. Federal law requires businesses to respond to the form.


published: 2/7/2003 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfGroup Quarters Counts Updated for Pennsylvania Municipalities hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the Census Question Resolution (CQR) program has released updated data for Pennsylvania municipalities.


published: 1/30/2003 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdf2003 County Data Books To Be Released in February hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg has announced that the 2003 County Data Books will be available in February.


published: 1/16/2003 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Continues to be a Slow Growth State hide

Pennsylvania continues to be a slow growth state according to the 2002 Population Estimates released by the Pennsylvania State Data Center, Penn State Harrisburg. Pennsylvania’s population increased slightly from 2000 to 2002. An estimated 12,335,091 people resided in Pennsylvania in 2002. This is a 0.4 percent increase over the 2000 population figure of 12,281,054 and a 0.3 percent increase from the 2001 state estimate.


published: 12/23/2002 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Retail Trade Embraces the Holiday Season hide

With less than a week remaining until Christmas, Pennsylvania businesses have risen to the challenge of filling the purchasing needs of shoppers throughout the state. The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that according to the 1997 Economic Census, there were 50,208 retail trade establishments in Pennsylvania in 1997 with over 650,000 paid employees. Retail trade establishments generated nearly $110 billion in sales in Pennsylvania in 1997.


published: 12/19/2002 | tags: Economy , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Gets Down To Business in Pennsylvania: Over 200,000 Pennsylvania Businesses To Be Counted in 2002 Economic Census hide

This December the U.S. Census Bureau will send questionnaires to more than 210,000 businesses in Pennsylvania, launching the 2002 Economic Census. The Economic Census, taken every five years in years ending in a two or seven, has been called “indispensable to understanding America’s economy” by Federal Reserve Board Chairman Alan Greenspan and “ensures the accuracy of the statistics we rely on for sound economic policy and for successful business planning.”


published: 12/5/2002 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdf2002 Deer Season To Begin Statewide On December 2nd hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the 2002 statewide rifle-hunting season for antlered and antlerless deer will take place from December 2nd through December 14th.


published: 11/22/2002 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfOver 1.2 Million Veterans in Pennsylvania To Be Honored On Veterans’ Day hide

Veterans’ Day will be observed this November 11, 2002. The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that, according to the 2000 Census, 1,280,788 individuals were veterans of the armed forces in Pennsylvania. Summary File 3, socio-economic data recently released by the Census Bureau, indicates that 13.7 percent of the over 9.3 million people in Pennsylvania 18 years or older were veterans of the armed forces.


published: 11/8/2002 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfOver 78,000 Housing Units In Pennsylvania Lack Plumbing Facilities hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities in Pennsylvania in 2000 totaled 78,163. This data, from the recently released Summary File 3, socio-economic data from Census 2000, indicates that of the over 5.2 million housing units in Pennsylvania in 2000, 1.5 percent lacked complete plumbing facilities.


published: 10/31/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdf2002 Fall Lecture Series hide

Please join the Pennsylvania State Data Center for our Fall 2002 Lecture Series. The lectures will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Penn State Downtown Center, located at 234 North Third Street, directly across from the Capitol Building in downtown Harrisburg.


published: 10/3/2002 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfChange in Rural Definition Causes Pennsylvania’s Rural Population To Decrease hide

Recently released 2000 Summary File 3 figures indicate that Pennsylvania’s rural population declined from 3,690,577 in 1990 to 2,819,968 in 2000. The decline is primarily due to the change in the classification of urban and rural by the U.S. Census Bureau from 1990 to 2000. This is a difference of 870,609 people, a 24.0 percent decline. In 1990, 31.1 percent of Pennsylvania’s population was rural compared to 23.0 percent in 2000.


published: 9/26/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Census 2000 Socio-Economic Data for Pennsylvania hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has today released the Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF3), socio-economic data for Pennsylvania. Summary File 3 data is detailed sample data compiled from responses to census long-form questionnaires and summarized for geographic areas down to block group or census tract levels, depending on the variable.


published: 9/25/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPUC Chairman To Speak At Annual Data User Conference hide

Glen R. Thomas, Chairman of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, is scheduled to be the plenary speaker at the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s 2002 Annual Data User Conference. This year’s conference will be held Tuesday, September 17th, at the Holiday Inn Grantville. The one-day conference kicks off at 9:00 a.m. and includes 20 breakout sessions. Mr. Mark Mather, policy analyst for the Population Reference Bureau in Washington, D.C., will be the luncheon speaker.


published: 9/11/2002 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvanians Experiencing Longer Commute Times hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvanians are experiencing longer commute times. Census 2000 General Demographic Profiles, recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau, show that the mean travel time to commute to work for the 5.6 million workers age 16 and over in Pennsylvania increased from 21.6 minutes in 1990 to 25.2 minutes in 2000.


published: 8/29/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Female, Full-Time, Year-Round Workers Show Larger Increases in Earnings Than Males hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania’s female, full-time, year-round workers experienced an increase in earnings of approximately 13.1 percent from 1989 to 1999 while males experienced an increase of about 1.5 percent during the same time period. This data, taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Summary File 3 General Demographic Profiles, is the first release of socio-economic data from Census 2000 and is compared to 1990 STF4 Census data. Based on current population survey data, median income is 3% higher for males and 4% higher for females than median earnings. Median income is all-inclusive and includes median earnings. The 1989 data in this report is based on median income. The 1999 data is based on median earnings. Therefore, the 1989 median income data has been adjusted for the difference in income type (income vs. earning). The data is then adjusted for inflation.


published: 8/16/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania State Data Center Announces 2002 Annual Data User Conference hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center, located at Penn State Harrisburg, is hosting its annual Data User Conference on Tuesday, September 17th, 2002, at the Holiday Inn Grantville. The conference is designed to educate and inform a diverse audience of data users on how to obtain and utilize data to meet the challenges of the new millennium. Along with a plenary session, luncheon and keynote speaker, the day will include nineteen breakout sessions with special emphasis on Census 2000 data.


published: 8/1/2002 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdf1997-2001 Industry Trends Report Now Available hide

The number of businesses in Pennsylvania continues to increase, according to the report Pennsylvania County Industry Trends 1997-2001 produced by the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg. This report was produced in partnership with Penn State University's Technical Assistance Program (PENNTAP), the Center for Workforce Information and Analysis, and Verizon.


published: 7/17/2002 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Per Capita Income Increases 3.8 Percent hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania’s per capita personal income increased 3.8 percent from 2000 to 2001. This preliminary estimate, from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, shows that Pennsylvania’s per capita income increased from $29,504 in 2000 to $30,617 in 2001. This 3.8 percent increase ranked Pennsylvania 14th in the nation in percent increase in per capital income. Tied with Pennsylvania were Alabama and Virginia. The $1,113 increase in per capita personal income from 2000 to 2001 for Pennsylvania was the 12th largest increase in the nation.


published: 7/13/2002 | tags: Income , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Spends $47.7 Billion in 2000, Ranks 4th in Nation hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U. S. Census Bureau’s 2000 Annual Survey of State Government Finances indicates that Pennsylvania state government spent $47.7 billion in fiscal year 2000. This represents a 7.8 percent increase from 1999 when Pennsylvania spent $44.2 billion. In both 2000 and 1999, Pennsylvania ranked fourth in the nation in government spending.


published: 6/28/2002 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfNumber of College Degrees Conferred in Pennsylvania On the Increase hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that information available from the Pennsylvania Department of Education indicates the number of bachelor degrees, first-professional degrees, master’s degrees and doctoral degrees conferred at institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania increased 1.2 percent from 94,812 in 1999-00 to 95,971 in 2000-01.


published: 6/13/2002 | tags: Education , Research Briefs

pdfU.S. Census Bureau Releases Socio-Economic Profiles for Pennsylvania hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports the U.S. Census Bureau has released Census 2000 demographic profile tables containing social, economic and housing characteristics for Pennsylvania. This release, from Summary File 3, is the first presentation of socio-economic data from Census 2000.


published: 5/30/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfCounty Population Estimates Released: Montgomery and Chester Among Nation’s 100 Largest Gaining hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that Montgomery and Chester counties ranked 78th and 79th, respectively, in the nation’s list of the 100 largest gaining counties. Southern and western states dominated the nation’s 100 largest gaining counties list with California having five counties in the top ten. This information is according to population estimates based on Census 2000 and released on April 29th by the U.S. Census Bureau. The estimates used April 1, 2000 (Census Day), as a base and were carried forward to July 1st, 2001, using birth and death data as well as migration information.


published: 5/3/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania State Data Center to Conduct Census 2000 Summary File 3 Workshops hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center has announced it will be conducting workshops on the upcoming release of Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF3) data. As with the release of SF1 data in 2001, the Pennsylvania State Data Center will travel throughout the commonwealth and provide data and information on the socio-economic data collected from Census 2000. SF3 data is sample data taken from the long form questionnaire in Census 2000. Approximately 1 in 6 households received the long form. The U.S. Census Bureau expects to release SF3 data to Pennsylvania in the fall of 2002. However, the U.S. Census Bureau expects to produce and release general demographic profiles based on SF3 data to Pennsylvania in May.


published: 4/26/2002 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfSummary File 2 Release Profiles Pennsylvania’s Diverse Asian Population hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has today released the Census 2000 Summary File 2 (SF2) data for Pennsylvania. This basic demographic data for up to 249 race and ethnic groups provides information down to the census tract level in Pennsylvania. SF2 is data compiled from questions that all persons were asked to respond to on the census questionnaire.


published: 4/18/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Race , Research Briefs

pdfOver 140,000 Pennsylvania Students Living In College Dormitories hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that according to the 2000 Census Group Quarters Population, there were 147,542 students in Pennsylvania living in university or college dormitories. This represents 24.9 percent of the total number of students enrolled in higher education in Pennsylvania. Of those students living in college dormitories, 66,754 (45.2 percent) were males and 80,788 (54.8 percent) were females. The county with the highest number of students living in college dormitories is Philadelphia County with 21,123. Allegheny County is second with 13,941, followed by Centre County with 11,398


published: 4/11/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdf1930 Census Records Released by National Archives on April 1st hide

Seventy-two years after completion, the individual records from the 1930 Census will be released to the public. April 1, 2002, ended the 72-year restriction on releasing individual census data from the nation’s 15th decennial census. The National Archives and its thirteen regional facilities will now be able to allow inspection of individual records to all citizens. By law (Title 44, U.S. Code) individual records from the Federal population censuses are confidential for 72 years.


published: 4/2/2002 | tags: Historical Census Data , Research Briefs

pdf2002 Spring Lecture Series hide

Please join the Pennsylvania State Data Center for our Spring 2002 Lecture Series. The lectures will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Penn State Downtown Center, located at 234 North Third Street, directly across from the Capitol Building in downtown Harrisburg.


published: 3/14/2002 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Mining Industry Declines as Reported in the 1997 Economic Census hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania’s mining industry declined from 1992 to 1997 in all four major categories based on data from the 1997 Economic Census. Pennsylvania’s mining industry declined 20.0 percent in the number of establishments, 5.4 percent in the value of shipments, 20.5 percent in the number of paid employees, and 8.4 percent in annual payroll


published: 3/1/2002 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Ready for Valentine’s Day with Books, Cards, Flowers and Chocolates hide

America loves books, periodicals and greeting cards. According to the 1997 Economic Census, there were over 97,000 such establishments, with sales of over $70 billion and over three quarters of a million employees.


published: 2/14/2002 | tags: Economic Census Data , Holidays , Research Briefs

pdfNumber of Pennsylvanians in Poverty Decreases from 1997 to 1998 hide

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released the 1998 Poverty Estimates for all counties, including estimates of poor children under 18 and poor children ages 5 to 17 who are related to the head of the household. In Pennsylvania, the number of people in poverty decreased from 1,297,614 in 1997 to 1,277,442 in 1998. In 1997, 10.9 percent of all persons in Pennsylvania were in poverty compared to 10.7 percent in 1998


published: 1/31/2002 | tags: Poverty , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Population in Emergency and Transitional Shelters Declines hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the population of persons in emergency and transitional shelters in Pennsylvania declined 33.7 percent from 1990 to 2000. According to the US Census Bureau’s U.S. Census 2000 Special Reports, there were 8,237 persons in emergency and transitional shelters in 1990. In 2000, the number decreased to 5,463 persons.


published: 1/23/2002 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s 86th Farm Show Showcases Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Industry hide

The largest indoor agricultural event in America, the Pennsylvania Farm Show begins on Saturday, January 5th. This 86th version of the Farm Show is held at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. Over 300 commercial and 8,000 competitive exhibitors will be located in seven buildings and cover sixteen acres, all under roof.


published: 1/8/2002 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Retail Trade Ready for the Holiday Season hide

Shoppers in Pennsylvania should have no trouble finding holiday gifts or places to buy gifts this year. The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that according to the 1997 Economic Census, there were 50,208 retail trade establishments in Pennsylvania in 1997 with 650,144 paid employees and generating nearly $110 billion in sales.


published: 12/21/2001 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania 1st in Growth in Transportation, Communications and Utilities Revenue: 1992 to 1997 hide

A statistical comparative analysis between the 1992 and 1997 Economic Censuses indicates the strength of Pennsylvania's industries. This comparative analysis, 1997 Economic Census: Comparative Statistics 1987 SIC Basis, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, shows that Pennsylvania ranked first in the nation in revenue percent increase in the Transportation, Communications and Utilities industries category. Major industry groups that comprise the Transportation, Communications and Utilities category include water transportation, transportation services, communications and electric, gas and sanitary services. It does not include railroad transportation or the U.S. Postal Service.


published: 12/18/2001 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases Long Form-Type Data for Large U.S. Cities and Counties hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Census Bureau has released detailed data from the Census 2000 Supplemental Survey (C2SS). The survey includes detailed information on housing, language, income and other statistics.


published: 11/21/2001 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfVoter Registration Increases 2.3 Percent in Pennsylvania in 2001 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania’s voter registration increased 2.3 percent from April 2000 to April 2001. This information, from the Pennsylvania Department of State, reports that the commonwealth had 7,698,471 persons registered to vote in the April 2001 elections. This represents 82 percent of Pennsylvania’s voting age population, according to Census 2000.


published: 11/8/2001 | tags: Elections , Research Briefs

pdfAverage Annual Pay in Pennsylvania Increases by 4.0 Percent in 2000 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the average annual pay of all workers in Pennsylvania covered by state and federal unemployment insurance (UI) programs increased 4.0 percent from 1999 to 2000. Average annual pay increased from $32,696 in 1999 to $33,999 in 2000. This is according to preliminary data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor. In the United States, the average annual pay for workers covered by state and federal UI programs increased 5.9 percent from $33,340 in 1999 to $35,296 in 2000.


published: 10/25/2001 | tags: Employment , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Ranks Sixth in the Nation in Gross State Product hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania ranked sixth in the nation in gross state product with a total value of $382.98 billion in 1999. Pennsylvania ranked behind California, New York, Texas, Illinois and Florida. Pennsylvania’s gross state product increased 5.0 percent between 1998 and 1999, according to data collected by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. All figures represent current dollars.


published: 10/11/2001 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s 2000 State Rankings Released hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports the release of Pennsylvania’s state rankings by the U.S. Census Bureau. This data is from selected tables from the Statistical Abstract of the United States, 2000. State rankings are provided in eighteen categories and provide data on population, age, unemployment rate, average annual pay and other population and demographic information. The rankings use 1990 as a base year and are compared with the most current data available.


published: 9/27/2001 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania State Data Center Fall 2001 Lecture Series hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg announces that their Fall Lecture Series will commence Thursday, October 4th at the Downtown Center in Harrisburg. This season’s three lecture series are on current topics relevant to all Pennsylvanians. The series schedule follows.


published: 9/20/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdf1996-2000 Industry Trends Report Now Available hide

The number of businesses in Pennsylvania continues to increase, according to the report Pennsylvania County Industry Trends 1996-2000, produced by the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg. This report was published in partnership with PENNTAP (the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program), the Pennsylvania State Data Center, Verizon and the Center for Workforce Information and Analysis.


published: 9/6/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfTotal Federal Funding to Pennsylvania Increased 6.1 Percent for 2000 hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that federal funding in Pennsylvania in 2000 was $73.7 billion representing an increase of 6.1 percent from 1999. Federal funding to Pennsylvania in 1999 was $69.4 billion. Pennsylvania ranks 5th in the nation in total federal funds received and 18th in the nation in federal funds received on a per-capita basis.


published: 8/30/2001 | tags: Government , Research Briefs

pdfDetailed Demographic Data (Summary File 1) Provides Information on Pennsylvania’s Changing Population and Demography hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the U.S. Bureau of the Census has released Census 2000 Summary File 1, detailed demographic data for Pennsylvania. The SF1 (100 percent data) is collected from the seven questions that all respondents provided. SF1 data contains information including age; sex; race; Hispanic or Latino origin; household and family characteristics; and housing data on occupancy status and tenure as well as group quarters data. Data is available down to the block level and includes information for zip codes and congressional districts.


published: 8/15/2001 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdf2001 Annual Data User Conference: Meeting the Challenges of the Future through Information Resources and Technology hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center, located at Penn State Harrisburg, is hosting its annual Data User Conference on Tuesday, September 11, 2001 at the Holiday Inn Grantville. The Conference is designed to educate a diverse audience on ways to meet the challenges of the future through information resources and technology. Along with a plenary session, luncheon, and keynote, the day will include 20 breakout sessions with special emphasis on Census 2000 data.


published: 8/8/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania Remains Second in Nation in Age 65 and Over Population hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Harrisburg reports that Pennsylvania remains second in the nation in terms of persons age 65 and over as a percent of the state’s total population. This data comes from the recently released General Demographic Profile of Pennsylvania by the U.S. Census Bureau.


published: 8/2/2001 | tags: Age , Research Briefs

pdfNew eStore announced hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that products and services from the Pennsylvania State Date Center may now be ordered online via their Web site at: PaSDC.hbg.psu.edu The eStore provides data users of the PaSDC an easy, secure method for ordering any PaSDC publication, report, profile or map.


published: 7/10/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfHome Ownership Grows, Household Types Change in Pennsylvania Through the Nineties hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that in 1990, 70.6 percent of all occupied housing units were owner-occupied. In 2000, owners occupied 71.3 percent of all occupied housing (see Table 1). This and other data was recently released from the U.S. Census Bureau s General Demographic Profile, which provides information including age, sex, race, Hispanic or Latino origin, household relationship and whether the residence is owned or rented. The profile is a prerelease of Summary File 1 (SF1) (100% data), which is scheduled to be released on or before the end of September 2001.


published: 7/5/2001 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania's Women-Owned Businesses Rank 7th in Nation hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that Pennsylvania's women-owned businesses ranked seventh in the nation in number of firms for 1997. This information, released by the U.S. Census Bureau on April 4th, is from the 1997 Economic Census Report. The report also states that womenowned businesses in the commonwealth generated more than $34 billion in sales and receipts. The report also stated that the 5.4 million women-owned businesses in the United States in 1997 employed more than 7.1 million persons and generated almost $820 billion in receipts.


published: 6/14/2001 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

PDFNumber of College Degrees Conferred in Pennsylvania Increased 17.2 Percent Over Ten Years hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that the number of bachelor degrees, first-professional degrees, master’s degrees and doctoral degrees conferred at institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania increased 17.2 percent from 1989-90 to 1999-00, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.


published: 6/7/2001 | tags: Education , Research Briefs

pdfCensus Bureau Releases Census 2000 Demographic Profile for Pennsylvania hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that the U.S. Census Bureau today released the Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: Census 2000 for Pennsylvania, a one-page table providing Census 2000 data on age and sex distributions, race, Hispanic origin, household relationship and type, housing occupancy and tenure (whether the housing unit is owned or rented). The profile includes nearly 100 data items, including percentage distributions.


published: 5/17/2001 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfPL 94-171 Census Workshops Announced. hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center, in cooperation with its state-wide network of affiliates and the United States Bureau of the Census, is conducting Census 2000 Workshops throughout the commonwealth. The purpose of these workshops is to provide information and insight into the recently released Public Law 94-171 data. This data is primarily used for redistricting purposes but also provides a large amount of data that may be used for other interests.


published: 3/30/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

PDFRecently released PL 94-171 Data Shows Pennsylvania’s Diversity hide

The Pennsylvania State Data announces the release of Census 2000 data for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. While the main purpose of this release is for redistricting, this data can also be used to gain a perspective on the racial diversity in the commonwealth. For the first time in history, respondents were given the opportunity to mark “one or more” race categories. Surprisingly, only 1.2 percent of the population (142,224 persons) answered the two or more race option when completing their questionnaire. A large percentage of the state’s population seem to consider themselves of one race.


published: 3/19/2001 | tags: 2000 Census , Race , Research Briefs

PDF2001 Spring Lecture Series Announced hide

The schedule has been finalized for the 2001 edition of the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s Spring Lecture Series. This season’s three lectures are on current Pennsylvania topics that are of interest to all citizens of the Commonwealth.


published: 3/8/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

PDFPennsylvania’s Construction Industry Ranks 6th In Number of Establishments hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that Pennsylvania ranks 6th in the nation with 27,046 establishments in the construction industry. This, according to the 1997 Economic Census, is a 3.1 percent increase over the 1992 Economic Census. The total number of construction establishments in the United States was reported at 639,482, an 11.6 percent increase since 1992. The U.S. Census Bureau defines an establishment as a single physical location at which business is conducted or services are provided. It is not necessarily identical to a company or enterprise that may consist of one or more establishments. In order to provide comparative numbers between the 1997 and 1992 Economic Censuses, the Standard Industrial Classification System was used to determine the number of establishments at 27,046. The North American Industrial Classification Systems lists the number of establishments in Pennsylvania as 27,536 for 1997.


published: 3/1/2001 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

PDFNew Standards For Defining Metropolitan Statistical Areas Announced hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center reports that The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has announced the adoption of new Standards for Defining Metropolitan Statistical Areas in the December 27, 2000, Federal Register. Recommendations by the Metropolitan Area Standards Review Committee and public comment on those recommendations were the basis of the changes in the standard. Standards for defining Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) were first issued in 1949 and have been modified in 1958, 1971, 1975, 1980 and 1990.


published: 2/15/2001 | tags: MSA-Level Data , Research Briefs

PDFMarriage, Divorce, Flowers and Candy in Pennsylvania hide

Marriage & Divorce: With February 14th fast approaching, the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg reports that marriages and divorces are down but candy and flower sales are flourishing, This is according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, marriage and divorce rates and the 1997 Economic Census.


published: 2/1/2001 | tags: Economic Census Data , Holidays , Research Briefs

PDF2001 County Data Books hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg has announced that the 2001 County Data Books are now available.


published: 1/25/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

PDFHigh-Speed Rail in Pennsylvania hide

Is high- speed rail in Pennsylvania’s future? There is a world-wide movement to embrace the concept of high-speed rail as a major component of a 21st century transportation system, according to Dr. Jeremy Plant, professor of public policy at Penn State Harrisburg.


published: 1/18/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

PDFThe 1999 State and County Detailed Population Estimates Have Arrived hide

The Pennsylvania State Data Center at Harrisburg has announced that the 1999 edition of the Pennsylvania State and County Detailed Population Estimates is now available.


published: 1/4/2001 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

PDFHoliday Season hide

The holiday season is here and businesses in Pennsylvania are ready for the shopping rush.


published: 12/21/2000 | tags: Holidays , Research Briefs

PDFHunting Is Big Business In Pennsylvania hide

Hunters age 16 and older spent more than $691.546 million in Pennsylvania in 1996. Of this $505,527 million or 73 percent of these monies were spent on equipment and $186,019 on trip-related expenses.


published: 12/7/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

PDFPennsylvania’s Gross State Product Continues to Increase hide

Pennsylvania ranked sixth in the nation in gross state product (GSP) in 1998, with a GSP of $364.039 billion, reports the Pennsylvania State Data Center, located at Penn State Harrisburg.


published: 11/30/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfSmall Businesses are Big Business in Pennsylvania hide

Nearly all of Pennsylvania’s businesses employ fewer than 100 people.


published: 11/16/2000 | tags: Employment , Research Briefs

pdfVoter Registration Continues to Climb in Pennsylvania hide

Voter registration of Pennsylvania adults has been increasing steadily in recent years.


published: 11/2/2000 | tags: Elections , Research Briefs

pdfPopulation Estimates Released for 1999: Pike and Monroe Counties Continue to Gain hide

While Pennsylvania has a larger population in 1999 than it did in 1990, it experienced a slight decrease from 1998 to 1999.


published: 10/23/2000 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Finance and Insurance Industry hide

Finance and insurance is one of the new industries created by the North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) and used in the 1997 Economic Census.


published: 10/19/2000 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfThe PaSDC Fall Lecture Series has Begun hide

Mark your calendar! The second lecture in the Pennsylvania State Data Center’s Fall Lecture Series is coming soon. This lecture features David Eggebeen, Ph.D. of PennState University who will present some demographic information on children living in households headed by single fathers.


published: 10/12/2000 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Manufacturing Industry is Highly Profitable hide

Pennsylvania’s manufacturing industry produced goods valued at nearly double its cost of materials in 1997.


published: 10/5/2000 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfRecreational Licenses and State Park Attendance are Popular in Pennsylvania hide

Outdoor recreation is a popular activity in Pennsylvania. State Park attendance and boat registrations increased by three and one percent, respectively, in 1999.


published: 9/21/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs , State-Level Data

pdfDecennial Census Data has Multiple Policy and Funding Purposes for Pennsylvania hide

The data collected by the United States Decennial Census is essential to Pennsylvania in many ways including in the formulation of public policy and funding distribution.


published: 9/14/2000 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfBack to School in Pennsylvania hide

In the 1999-00 academic year, Pennsylvania public, private, and nonpublic schools had a total enrollment of 2,147,736 students, a 6.7 percent increase from the 1990-91 year. These students represent 500 school districts and 5,705 schools.


published: 9/7/2000 | tags: Education , Research Briefs

pdfUnemployment in Pennsylvania Continues to Decrease hide

The annual unemployment rate in Pennsylvania has been decreasing since 1992. The 1999 annual rate was 4.4 which amounted to 262,000 people, compared to the 1992 decade high of 7.6, or 447,000 people.


published: 8/24/2000 | tags: Employment , Research Briefs

pdf1995-1999 Industry Trends Report Now Available hide

The number of businesses in Pennsylvania continues to increase, according to the report Pennsylvania County Industry Trends 1995-1999 produced by the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg. This report was produced by Penn State University’s Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program (PENNTAP) and published through support by Bell Atlantic.


published: 8/17/2000 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfEducational Services Industry: A New Industry Sector for 1997 hide

The U.S. Census Bureau’s 1997 Economic Census introduced data for a number of newly defined sectors, including the educational services sector.


published: 8/10/2000 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfGet Local Input and Analysis of Data hide

Get Local Input and Analysis of Data


published: 7/19/2000 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfHealth Care and Social Assistance Brings $45.3 Billion in Receipts to Pennsylvania in 1997 hide

The 31,512 establishments which comprised the new health care and social assistance industry sector in 1997 brought the Commonwealth $45.3 billion, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s recently released Economic Census.


published: 7/13/2000 | tags: Economic Census Data , Research Briefs

pdfStudy Released on Freight Railroads in Pennsylvania hide

“Railroads are of crucial significance to Pennsylvania’s transportation system,” according to Dr. Jeremy Plant, professor of Public Affairs at Penn State Harrisburg.


published: 7/6/2000 | tags: PaSDC Publications and Activities , Research Briefs

pdfAdministrative & Support & Waste Management & Remediation Services: A New Industry Sector hide

The new North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) has created a number of new sectors for which data is now available for the first time in the 1997 Economic Census. Many of these new sectors were in the services area.


published: 6/29/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfPA Exports Increase by Less Than 1 Percent hide

Total Pennsylvania exports were valued at $17.8 billion in 1999. This was a 0.6 percent increase from 1998. In the same time period, U.S. exports increased by 1.8 percent to $692.8 billion.


published: 4/27/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfHow is Pennsylvania Measuring Up? hide

Not only is Pennsylvania one of the states leading the nation in response rates to Census 2000, 55 counties in the Commonwealth also register a higher response rate than the national average, the Pennsylvania State Data Center, at Penn State Harrisburg reports.


published: 4/5/2000 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfThe Importance of the Census Long-Form hide

With the arrival of the official Census Day, April 1, 2000, there has been increasing discussion of the value of the Decennial Census Long Form. The information gathered from the collection of these data is extremely important and used daily over the next ten years.


published: 4/3/2000 | tags: 2000 Census , Research Briefs

pdfRetail Trade Sales in PA Rose 25 Percent to $109.9 Billion hide

Retail trade sales in the state totaled $109.9 billion in 1997. This was a 25 percent increase from 1992 when sector sales totaled $87.8 billion. From 1992 to 1997, the retail trade sector saw a 30 percent decrease in total establishments and a 25 percent decrease in employees. Total annual payroll, however, increased by 5 percent in this time period.


published: 3/23/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfCommonwealth’s Population Decreases for the Fourth Consecutive Year hide

Pennsylvania saw modest population growth from 1990 to 1995. In 1996, the state recognized a population decline for the first time in the decade. Earlier today, the U.S. Census Bureau released the 1999 state and county population estimate figures showing Pennsylvania’s population decline trend has continued for a fourth consecutive year.


published: 3/9/2000 | tags: Estimates Data , Research Briefs

pdfOver Half of Pennsylvanians have Access to a Computer in their Home hide

More individuals have computer access at home than at work reports the Pennsylvania State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg. Fifty-four percent of the people polled in the 1999 Penn State Poll, an omnibus survey conducted annually, reported having personal computers at home while only 43 percent reported having access to a computer at work.


published: 3/2/2000 | tags: Research Briefs

pdfPA Real Estate and Rental and Leasing Establishments Generate $7.7 Billion in Revenue hide

The real estate and rental and leasing sector had a total of 8,684 establishments in the Commonwealth in 1997. These establishments generated $7.7 billion of revenue in that year.


published: 2/25/2000 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfDirect Correlation in PA Between Young Adult Workers’ Salaries and Educational Attainment hide

Pennsylvania is ranked 30th nationally and falls well behind adjacent states such as Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Delaware in the educational attainment of its total adult population. In the Commonwealth, 49.8 percent of the young adult labor force ages 18 to 39 has a high school education or less while only 25.6 percent has a college or graduate degree.


published: 2/17/2000 | tags: Education , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s New Housing Units and Median Values Increase hide

Pennsylvania had 4,938,140 housing units in 1990. This was a seven percent increase from 1980. From 1990 to 1998, there were 346,448 new housing units constructed in the Commonwealth resulting in an additional seven percent growth. Nationally, existing housing grew 11 percent from 1990 to 1998.


published: 2/10/2000 | tags: Housing , Research Briefs

pdfPennsylvania’s Wholesale Trade in 1997 hide

Sales for the wholesale trade industry in Pennsylvania rose 26.1 percent from 1992 to 1997 to $159.4 billion. The industry saw a 15.3 percent decrease in establishments during that time period to 17,138. The industry employed 237,567 Pennsylvanians in 1997 and the annual payroll for all wholesale trade establishments in the state was $8.6 billion. Total operating expenses for the Commonwealth’s wholesale trade was $17.1 billion in 1997 and overall end-of-year inventories decreased from 1996 to 1997 by $407.3 million (4.6 percent).


published: 2/3/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs

pdfState’s Total Business Establishments, Employees, and Annual Payroll Increased in 1997 hide

The Commonwealth had a total of 292,118 business establishments in 1997. This was a 1.8 percent increase over 1996. In that time period, the number of people employed in the state grew by 111,173, or 2.4 percent, and total payroll increased by 6 percent to $137.3 billion.


published: 1/13/2000 | tags: Economy , Research Briefs