Census 2030

Once each decade, America comes together to count every person in the United States. The next count will take place April 1, 2030. The decennial census is the nation’s largest peacetime effort in American history. Through its 2020 Post-Enumeration Survey, the U.S. Census Bureau concluded that Texas was one of six states in the country that had an undercount of its population, which equates to approximately 500,000 individuals. As the 2nd largest state in the union, it is important to ensure that every person residing in Texas is counted in the 2030 Census.

It’s about representation.

Between 2010 and 2020, Texas added approximately 4 million residents and gained 2 congressional seats.

It’s about federal dollars.

The distribution of more than $675 billion in federal funds, grants, and support to states, counties, and communities are based on census data. This money is spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works, and other vital programs. An undercount of the Texas population of just 1% could translate to a loss of $300 million in federal funding for the state and Texans.

It’s about our business and communities.

Businesses drive our fast-growing economy and are the population engine of many of our communities in Texas. These businesses use Census data to understand customer needs and where to locate, creating economic opportunities for our communities.

It’s about data.

The 2030 Decennial Census data will serve as the base for nearly all demographic and socioeconomic statistics for the following 10 years. The quality of these data is directly linked to a complete and accurate count in 2030.

How to get involved.

The Texas Demographic Center is collaborating with the Texas Census Institute to plan for the 2030 Census to ensure an accurate and complete count of everyone in Texas. Visit the Texas Census Institute website to learn more about their organizing efforts and become a partner.

Hard-to-Count Areas

Census research has shown some populations historically have been, or are at risk of being, missed in the census at disproportionately higher rates. These groups include:

• Children under 5
• People of Color
• Renters
• Larger Households
• Single-Parent Households
• Immigrants
• Low-Income Populations
• People with Limited English Proficiency
• People Living in Multi-Family Housing

Visit the Census Bureau’s 2020 Hard-to-Count map to learn more about this important issue in your community.