Research Guides: US Government Information Online: Historical Statistics

Key Historical Statistics Resources

The Historical Statistics of the United States (2006)
This is a monumental work provides a comprehensive compendium of statistics from over 1,000 sources recording every aspect of the history of the US in these five categories: 1. Population, 2. Work & Welfare, 3. Economic Structure & Performance, 4. Economic Sectors, and 5. Governance & International Relations..
Plus, many essays provide context for each area.

Historical Statistics of the United States (1975)
From Colonial times to 1970 this online resource provides a wealth of mostly annual data on the United States. From the US Census.

Statistical Abstract of the United States (1878-2012) This link opens in a new window
The authoritative and comprehensive summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic organization of the US, includes data from many government agencies. Published annually. Download entire editions at HathiTrust
1980 US Census Data This link opens in a new window
This Census dataset includes 1500 variables: 1200 from the Long Form and 300 from the Short Form. Data and mapping capabilities for county, MCD, place, tract and block group (some areas untracted).

Prices & Wages by Decade: 1700-Present
This guide points to government publications listing retail prices for common items or "necessities of life." Prices for foods, articles of clothing, household items, appliances, hardware, fuel and other physical goods fall within the domain of this guide.