Census Tracts
Definition
Census tracts are small, relatively permanent statistical subdivisions of counties designed to be relatively homogeneous units with respect to population characteristics, economic status, and living conditions.
- Census tracts average about 4,000 inhabitants
- Census tract boundaries never cross county lines
For questions about census tract geography and how 2000 tracts compare to 1990 tracts, see the Census Bureau Geography Division:
Look-Up Tools
To find a census tract number for a street address, use these look-up tools:
- The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) maintains a look-up system for 1990 and 2000 census tracts at http://www.ffiec.gov/geocode/default.htm
- The Census Bureau's American FactFinder has a census tract look-up option for 2000 census tracts at http://factfinder.census.gov/
HMDA and CRA
The FFIEC uses census tract data to monitor compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA). See the FFIEC web site at:
HUD Qualified Census Tracts and HUBZones
- The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) determines Qualified Census Tracts, which are one criterion for HUBZone qualification. For more information about HUBZone qualified census tracts, see the HUD web site at http://www.huduser.org/
- The Small Business Administration Empowerment Contracting Program determines whether an area qualifies as a HUBZone. The U.S. Census Bureau does not determine whether an area qualifies as a Qualified Census Tract or a HUBZone. For more information about the Small Business Administration (SBA) Empowerment Contracting Program, see the SBA web site at
https://eweb1.sba.gov/hubzone/internet/
Health Professional Shortage Areas and Medically Underserved Areas
The Health Resources and Services Administration designates Health Professional Shortage Areas or Medically Underserved Areas. For information from the Bureau of Primary Health Care:
