Use the strategies and sources in the infographic below to get started finding statistics.

Before beginning a search, identify:

Timeline and Location

• What time period are you interested in?
• What geographic location are you interested in?
• Statistics take time to collect and compile, so the most recently available data for a given topic may be older than you wish. 
• For example, the most recent U.S. Census data is from 2010.

Publishers and Producers

• Who would have an interest in collecting this information?
• Publishers of statistics include government agencies, private corporations, industries, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations. 
• If you can't identify a potential publisher of information, statistics on your topic may be difficult to find.  

Places to Find Statistics:

Government Agencies

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics has compiled a list of agencies that produce statistics both in the United States and internationally.
• The United States Census Bureau has the most recent information from the U.S. Census with lots of demographic information included.
• Search and explore Census Data from the Census Bureau. 

Library Databases

• ProQuest Statistical Insight is a general statistical database that allows users to search for national and international statistics directly without having to wade through text documents.
• Historical Statistics of the United States is the standard source for quantitative facts on US history.
• Statista provides access to statistics and studies gathered by market researchers, trade organizations, scientific publications, and government sources on over 600 industries.
• Select a relevant subject database from our Find Articles Guide, and search for your topic with the word "statistics".

Web Sources

• Pew Research Center conducts nonpartisan public opinion polling on current issues. Use Pew to find statistical information on how the public feels about a given topic. 
• The UGL's Statistics Guide provides links and information to find statistics on specific topics.
• The Law Library's Find Statistics Guide divides information into national, state, local, or international sources.
• Can't find what you're looking for? Try Google. Remember to use specific keywords when searching, and evaluate every source you find for credibility.

Need help? 

• Ask a Librarian
• Research Consultation