Publications | The Perryman Group

The High Cost to Texas of Census 2020 Undercounts

Report Published on November 16, 2021

Accurate Census counts are far more than just a matter of interest. They are important to ensuring adequate federal funding for various programs and appropriate representation in Congress. In addition, the Census is crucial to understanding population and demographic trends in order to plan for the future.

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The High Cost to Texas of Census 2020 Undercounts

Newsletter Published on November 16, 2021 (Vol. 38, No. 09)

Accurate Census counts are important to ensuring adequate federal funding for various programs and appropriate representation in Congress. Undercounts in the 2020 Census will cost Texas billions in economic activity. The Perryman Group's estimates of the total economic costs are highlighted in this issue.

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A Matter of Degree

Column Published in syndication July 23, 2025

The US Census Bureau recently released some interesting new data related to the demographic, social, and geographic characteristics of bachelor's degree holders in the country by field of study. The report indicates that almost 36% of US adults aged 25 and over had a bachelor's degree (or higher) in 2022. The field of study chosen affects potential occupations, opportunities, and economic returns.

Shrinking Schools

Column Published in syndication November 20, 2024

It's a fact of US demographic life that school enrollments are likely to trend downward. The population is aging, birth rates are dropping, and consequently there are fewer school-aged children. The National Center for Education Statistics estimates that enrollment fell by 2.1% between 2017 and 2022, with a decline of 5.5% projected through 2031. The changes vary dramatically across the country, with drops exceeding 13% in California, Hawaii, New Mexico, New York, and West Virginia through 2031 projected. Texas is forecast to fall by only 0.9% (but will expand modestly if current migration patterns persist).

Texans Old and New

Column Published in syndication September 18, 2024

New demographic information has been released by the US Census Bureau, and it confirms what we already knew - Texas is experiencing rapid population growth, notable job gains, and higher incomes. Let's take a brief look at a few highlights.