Data

General cautions about using data

It’s important to understand the data you are presenting. Be sure to note the following when creating your brochure or making a presentation:

• Data are only as good as their sources
• Data are regularly revised and updated
• Definitions matter
• Some data are not reported

For more detailed information about these topics, please download General cautions about using data.

Online data sources

There are countless data sources available for local, state and national data. To help you focus your research, we've compiled a selection of online resources for gathering further data online as well as suggestions for finding local data for your community.

Local data sources

To learn more about what’s happening in local communities, consider contacting local agencies for more information. While data sources vary by county, the following agencies may provide insightful information:

• County assessor's office
• City clerk's office 
• Planning and community action agencies
• City and county law enforcement agencies 
• Board of realtors 
• Local housing agency 
• County health department 
• Department of health and welfare