Census Data: A Treasure Trove for AP Human Geography

The United States Census Bureau collects a vast amount of data every ten years, providing invaluable insights into the American population. This information is a gold mine for AP Human Geography students, offering a rich resource for understanding population patterns, demographic trends, and their implications for society.

Population Characteristics

The census provides detailed information on the characteristics of the American population, including:

• Age: The median age of the U.S. population in 2020 was 38.5 years, with the over-65 population growing rapidly.
• Race and Ethnicity: The census categorizes people into various racial and ethnic groups, with the largest being White (57.8%), Hispanic or Latino (18.7%), Black or African American (13.4%), and Asian (6.0%).
• Gender: The U.S. population is nearly evenly split between males and females, with a slight majority of females (50.5%).
• Education: The census tracks educational attainment, revealing that 33.4% of Americans have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
• Income: The median household income in the U.S. was $67,521 in 2019, with significant disparities based on race and gender.

Population Distribution

The census also provides data on the spatial distribution of the American population, including:

• Urbanization: The majority of Americans (80.7%) live in urban areas, with the most populous being New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
• Population Density: The population of the U.S. is highly unevenly distributed, with the highest densities in the Northeast and California.
• Migration: The census tracks migration patterns, revealing that the most common destination for Americans moving between states is Florida.

Applications of Census Data in AP Human Geography

The applications of census data in AP Human Geography are endless. Students can use the information to:

• Analyze population trends: Identify and explain changes in the size, composition, and distribution of the American population.
• Understand social and economic disparities: Examine and compare demographic characteristics across different groups to identify patterns of inequality.
• Develop population projections: Forecast future population trends based on historical data and demographic models.
• Study the effects of government policies: Analyze how government policies, such as immigration or housing programs, have impacted population patterns.
• Inform land use planning: Use census data to determine population growth and characteristics in specific areas, informing decisions about housing, infrastructure, and community planning.

Tables

Table 1: Population Characteristics of the United States (2020)

Table 2: Population Distribution of the United States (2020)

Table 3: Applications of Census Data in AP Human Geography

Table 4: Creative Applications of Census Data