The Hispanic Population: Comparing Census Bureau Data Sources

• Activity Number: 97
• Type: Topic Contributed
• Date/Time: Monday, August 12, 2002 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Government Statistics*
• Author(s): Eileen Diaz McConnell*+
• Affiliation(s): Indiana University
• Keywords: Data Sources ; Hispanic ; Census 2000

Abstract

The Census Bureau uses several surveys to collect information about individuals living in the United States, including the Hispanic population. While there are commonalities in the sample design and content of census surveys, differences may lead to variation in the estimates of both the size and characteristics of the Hispanic population in the United States. Studies have examined the data coverage and quality of data collected about the foreign born, migrant populations and Hispanics, as well as the American population generally. However, no study has extensively compared census data sources specifically about the Hispanic population in the United States. Census 2000 data indicates that in addition to the states that have traditionally had large Hispanic populations, other states are experiencing large Hispanic growth. This phenomenon suggests that the comparability of the census data sources by state is important. Thus, this paper employs 1990 and 2000 census data for particular states to compare the size and the characteristics of the Hispanic population across census data sources. Potential explanations for discrepancies and policy implications are discussed.