Pennsylvania State Data Center

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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).

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

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.)

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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).

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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