First US Census Data Shows 9.7% Population Growth

The first set of results from the 2010 US Census are just in, showing the total population up 9.7% to 308m since 2000, with the Western and Southern states growing relative to the NE and Mid-West. A strong response rate meant the Census came in under budget by $1.7bn.

The Census has taken place every ten years since 1790. Data is used to determine the need for government funds per area based on population, as well as for research and insight by businesses.

Rebecca Blank (pictured), Acting Deputy Secretary of the US Department of Commerce, noted during a live web cast yesterday that the US Census is unique as the first of its kind to be developed for democratic purposes. Other countries use similar efforts for taxation, military conscription and other government needs, she said.

'The 2010 Census was a massive undertaking, and in reporting these first results, we renew our commitment to our great American democracy peacefully, fairly and openly for the 23rd time in our nation's history,' Blank stated.

Under the leadership of Robert Groves, Director of the US Census Bureau, Census forms were mailed to 155 million US households, after which, door-to-door follow ups took place, which included 565,000 interviews.

The Bureau's budget was $7.4bn, but because of a 'strong public response', it spent only $5.7bn and returned $1.7bn to the government. Cost savings were attributed to a high mail response rate (74%), which resulted in fewer in-person interviews.

Data shows that during the past decade, the Western and Southern states increased in population, while the Mid-Western and North Eastern states declined in size.

More detailed data releases will take place throughout 2011, including state population counts for race and ethnicity in February.

Web site: www.census.gov .