2000 CENSUS: Significant Increase in Cost Per Housing Unit Compared to 1990 Census
Abstract
The decennial census is the nation's most comprehensive and expensive data-gathering program. From providing the basis for apportioning the U.S. House of Representatives to providing data used by communities, businesses, and Americans everywhere, the decennial census provides a great deal of knowledge about our nation. In a previous report,' we estimated that when compared to the 1970 census, the projected full-cycle cost per housing unit of the 2000 census would quadruple and the total cost would nearly double the costs of the 1990 census. According to Census officials, the significant cost increase can be attributed primarily to the bureau's attempt to achieve a better quality census than in 1990. According to preliminary data from the Accuracy and Coverage Evaluation program, it appears that the 2000 census did reduce the net undercount for children and minorities compared to the 1990 census. However, due to current, ongoing studies and evaluations of the 2000 census, it is too early to determine the full extent of improvements compared to the 1990 census.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA397207
Entities
People
- Dan Miller
- William L. Clay Jr
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office