Easily get Census 2000 data
The REP has mentioned GISTools freeware developed by Professor Bruce Ralston before but we want to make sure that all our readers know about these programs. Compared to AmericanFactfinder these tools will save you hours of time.
What are they: Professor Ralston developed four programs that allow people to easily obtain Census 2000 data from the SF1-SF4 files for any summary level (i.e. block, tract, city, county, state, etc.)
When do I use them: The REP suggests using these tools if you need Census 2000 data for presentations, research, or mapping. They are particularly helpful if you need data at the block group or block summary level.
How do I use them: These tools are super user-friendly. Step 1: Download the zip files containing the Census 2000 data from the Bureau’s ftp site. Step 2: Download the appropriate “geo” file for your data. There is one geo file for SF1-SF4 files for each state. It’s normally at the very bottom of the folder with the zip files for the summary file. For instance, at the bottom of the folder for California SF1 data there is a file named cageo_uf1.zip. Step 3: Download the tool. There is a different program for each summary file (i.e. 1–4). Step 4: Follow the instructions in the user manual that is available for download from the same site that you got the program from.
Lastly, tell Professor Ralston how wonderful his programs are and keep you fingers crossed that he will provide similar freeware for Census 2010.
Hello,
Could you please clarify for me what files I need to download before I can use the Easy Table tool? I am trying to create tables using summary file 3. I understand that I would need to download the geo file for each state (e.g. azgeo_uf3) I need to draw info from, but am unclear what census data files I need to download for th program to work. When I try to run the SF3 to Table Pro Tool, it says that it can’t find the files.
Thank you so much for your help. The American Fact Finder website is a nightmare, as I need about 20 tables for hundreds of different block groups from several states. This tool seems fantastic!
I’m not sure what you mean by “Easy Table tool” and “Table Pro Tool.” It sounds like you might be using a different program altogether. Maybe the freeware database software ProTool? If you are using GISTools and you are looking for SF3 tables then you need to download the SF3 geo file and all of the various SF3 tables from the Bureau’s ftp site. Put them all in one folder. GISTools should then work. I sent you my telephone number so feel free to call me (PST) if you are still having problems.