Estimating Population Data

Discrepancies between population and housing estimates and the 2020 Census counts, especially in undercounted or overcounted areas, might lead to poor policy decisions. These disparities, often correlated with various demographic attributes, might increase inequities in resource distribution. To address this issue, we conducted a comparison of current population and housing estimates at several geographic levels (city, county, and tract) in North Carolina with 2020 Census figures to identify areas of undercounting and overcounting and examined their relationships with demographic characteristics. The analysis revealed specific patterns of undercounts and overcounts across different regions and demographic groups in North Carolina and we proposed changes to current population estimates to better reflect the actual population distribution. Our work directly supports the objectives of the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) by providing more precise data, allowing for better decision-making and resource allocation.