October 1, 2016
For Some, Ban-the-Box Laws Are Making It Harder to Get a Job
The laws are meant to make it easier for ex-felons to get hired. But they're having the opposite impact on some people who don't even have a criminal history.
September 21, 2016
GDP Growth in Many Metro Areas Still Stunted From Recession
Real GDP increased in most regions last year, but many have experienced little to no growth since 2007.
September 15, 2016
Demographics Can Spell Trouble for a City's Finances
New Census data shows some cities have a lot of residents who consume more public services than they contribute in taxes. That can cause fiscal problems down the road.
September 9, 2016
Is There Really a ‘Ferguson Effect’?
Some say police officers are increasingly reluctant to intervene in dangerous situations, fueling a crime wave in cities throughout the nation. Others say that's just not true.
September 2, 2016
Jobs Report: Local Government Employment Picking Up
The sector added more jobs in recent months, but it still hasn't recovered from cuts during the recession.
September 1, 2016
The Metro Areas With More New Businesses
Younger companies are crucial to creating jobs and promoting innovation in local economies.
August 26, 2016
Displaced Workers Faring Better, But Many Remain Unemployed
New data on displaced workers shows that those in the South have had the hardest time finding new jobs.
August 18, 2016
Landing a Summer Job Is Getting a Little Easier -- For Some
While slightly more young Americans got jobs this summer, they're not working nearly as often as they used to.
August 16, 2016
The States That Spend the Most (and the Least) on Education
Several factors are behind the drastic differences in funding.
August 12, 2016
Who Crime Victims Are and How They View Justice Reform
Key takeaways from recent surveys about crime's impact on victims.
August 5, 2016
Local Governments Record Hiring Uptick in July
They added the most jobs last month in a year. But employment for the sector is still well below prior levels.
August 5, 2016
The Adirondacks: Whose Park Is It Anyway?
America's largest state park is a battleground between conservation activists and small towns desperate for development.
August 4, 2016
How Closure of 'Frontier Town' Theme Park Devastated a Tiny New York Town
Frontier Town was the lifeblood of North Hudson, N.Y.'s economy. Now, like much of the town, it's empty.
August 4, 2016
Advanced Industry Jobs Expanding Unevenly Across U.S.
According to a new report, some regions are adding high-skill, high-paying jobs, while others are seeing them decline.
August 3, 2016
Where the Housing Affordability Burden Is Rising the Fastest
In the priciest markets, some are spending nearly half their income on rent or mortgage. See how your area compares.
August 1, 2016
'Island' School Districts: A Story of Haves and Have Nots
School districts completely surrounded by a single larger district often have vast disparities.
July 26, 2016
Gov2Gov: The Lobbying That Falls Under the Radar
Cities, counties and states put a lot of effort -- and money -- into lobbying other levels of government.
July 22, 2016
States With Top Job Growth in the First Half of 2016
The latest employment estimates show the biggest gains in the West.
July 19, 2016
States Where Government Workers Are Most Prevalent
There's a wide variation in the numbers of public employees and how much they cost in each state. See how yours compares.
July 14, 2016
What U.S. Mayors Care About Most
A review of the year's State of the City speeches details their top priorities.
July 7, 2016
Louisiana’s Budget Crisis Empowers an Unusual Group
In the midst of its biggest fiscal disaster in decades, the state is a good place to watch the evolving roles of freshman lawmakers and veteran lobbyists.
July 6, 2016
Where the Working-Age Population Is Declining and Why It Matters
Some counties are losing people in their prime working years, creating potential challenges for local governments.
June 20, 2016
ATVs and Public Roadways: A Deadly Combination
ATVs aren't built for roads, but more places are making it legal for them to drive alongside other vehicles anyway.
June 8, 2016
The Regional Job Credentials Gap
More and more employers are demanding college degrees -- but not all are created equal.
June 3, 2016
May Job Growth Was Slowest in More Than 5 Years
Government and most other sectors of the economy aren't adding many jobs.
May 31, 2016
The 'Silver Tsunami' Has Arrived in Government
Significantly more state and local workers are retiring or quitting, according to a recent survey.
May 19, 2016
Highlights From New Census Population Estimates
Seven of the nation's fastest-growing cities are in Texas, according to new data. See how population changes in your city compare to others.
May 19, 2016
The Daily Crisis Cops Aren’t Trained to Handle
Ten percent of 911 calls involve mental health situations that most police aren’t prepared to deal with, leading to sometimes tragic outcomes.
May 11, 2016
Where Housing Is Least and Most Affordable for Military Families
They move more often than most and tend to rent rather than own.
May 6, 2016
April Jobs Report: Gloomy for Public and Private Sectors
The economy added the fewest jobs last month since September. But there is a bright spot in the report.
May 4, 2016
The Metro Areas Most Lagging Behind in the Recovery
They have a long way to go for a full recovery.
April 21, 2016
'Fragmented' School Districts: A Complicated and Controversial Issue
In much of the country, school districts survive even when they have few students. In an era of budget cutbacks, these districts are prime targets for consolidation.
April 20, 2016
How Energy States Could Better Weather the Boom-and-Bust Cycle
As major oil-producing states face budget shortfalls, a new report calls on states to rethink how they’re collecting and spending severance tax revenues.
April 14, 2016
Report: Minorities, Poor Residents More Likely to Have Their Driver's License Suspended
A new study highlighting racial and socioeconomic disparities in license suspensions is the latest call for states to make reforms.
April 4, 2016
Teen Driving Laws' Unexpected Impact on Crime
New research shows certain graduated driver licensing laws result in fewer teens being arrested for nontraffic-related crimes.
April 1, 2016
Local Governments Pick Up Hiring in 2016
The latest jobs report shows local government employment increasing, while state and federal employment stagnates.
March 29, 2016
Public Unions Claim Victory in Supreme Court's 4-4 Tie
The ruling lets unions keep collecting fees from nonunion members -- for now. The case is likely to be retried.
March 24, 2016
More Americans Flocking to Sun Belt Metro Areas
After a slowdown during the economic downturn, the great migration to the South and Southwest is back.
March 23, 2016
Uninformed Voters Are a Problem. This May Be a Solution.
A new award-winning website aims to better educate voters about downballot races, which people often know little (if anything) about.
March 10, 2016
Tax Revenues Are Starting to Slow in Most States
A new report details revenue projections for each state, showing that many will have sizable budget shortfalls to close.
March 7, 2016
Where Youth Unemployment Is Highest and Lowest
Young people were twice as likely to be out of work last year, according to new data.
March 3, 2016
Immigrants Establishing Roots in New Gateway Cities
In an effort to boost their economies, cities in the Midwest and Rust Belt have launched initiatives in recent years to attract immigrants. Are they working?
February 23, 2016
Despite Lack of Seat Belts, School Bus Fatalities Are Rare
Only a few regions experienced multiple fatal crashes in the last decade.
February 23, 2016
States Seek More Secure Seat Belt Laws for School Buses
Only one state follows the new federal recommendations for seat belts in school buses. That could change soon, but money remains an issue.
February 19, 2016
Why Are Traffic Deaths Rising?
After years of going down, road-related fatalities went up last year. There's two big reasons for that.
February 5, 2016
Job Growth in State Government Remains Sluggish in 2016
It's looking like 2016 will be another year with employment cuts in some states and little to no growth in others.
February 3, 2016
Life Expectancy Varies Greatly Within Cities
Just a few blocks away, your neighbors may be expected to live 20 years longer.
January 29, 2016
Union Representation Shrinks in Several States
The declines are happening mostly in places that enacted anti-union laws or had job cuts in heavily unionized industries.
January 28, 2016
In Growing Economies, Some People Are Left Behind
Despite recent growth in jobs and economic prosperity, a new report finds most low-income workers haven't benefited.
January 26, 2016
When It Comes to 311, the Customer Isn’t Always Right
As cities explore ways to use citizen complaints to enhance public services, research shows there are drawbacks to such data.
January 26, 2016
Survey: Almost All Police Departments Plan to Use Body Cameras
Even though every cop will likely wear a recording device in the not-too-distant future, a new report reveals there's little consensus about how to use them.
January 19, 2016
The States With Declining Populations
Why are some states losing people, even as the country continues to grow? Jobs, jobs, jobs (and, in some cases, aging).
January 8, 2016
Private-Sector Employment Grew 4 Times Faster Than Government in 2015
New data depicts weak job growth for all levels of government.
January 6, 2016
How States' Dependence on Corporate Taxes Has Declined
Most increased their reliance more on income taxes from people instead of corporations in the past few decades. View data for every state.
December 28, 2015
Where New Businesses Are Starting Up
New Census data show the areas of the country where more businesses are being established.
December 11, 2015
How Major Industries Are Driving Population Shifts
Particularly during a recession, a county's ability to attract and retain residents depends largely on what industries drive its economy.
December 11, 2015
Can You Find Me Now? Why Calling 911 Will Get Easier
Phones can detect your location, but emergency responders can’t. That’s all going to change soon.
December 4, 2015
How Public-Sector Employment Fared in 2015
All levels of government experienced weak job growth, while the private sector expanded five times faster.
December 3, 2015
A State-by-State Look at Traffic Deaths
The number of fatal car crashes fell overall last year. But in some states, they were on the rise.
December 1, 2015
Black and Out of Work: How the Recession Changed Government Employment
The public sector used to be a place of upward mobility for minorities, particularly black women.
November 25, 2015
How People Spend Their Time in Each State, in 6 Maps
As one may expect, Southerners devote more time to religion, while people out West play more sports.
November 20, 2015
How State Economies Are Performing
View the latest jobs data for states -- and trends over time.
November 13, 2015
The Most and Least Kid-Filled Cities
The percent of American households with children has slowly declined over the past decade.
November 13, 2015
What America’s Biggest Counties Have in Common
When Americans move, they generally stay within one region. But some of the most populated counties are attracting higher rates of new residents from far away.
November 6, 2015
The Latest State and Local Government Jobs Data
And how it has fluctuated in recent years.
November 4, 2015
Explaining the Cost of College Tuition
Tuition prices are influenced by far more than just state funding. View and compare differences for each state.
November 2, 2015
As Affordable Housing Shrinks, Where Can Families Live?
In many urban centers, families are finding themselves priced out of the market for housing large enough to accommodate them. Some cities are trying to fix the problem, but it’s not easy.
October 16, 2015
How Unemployment Rates Can Exaggerate States' Recovery
Politicians have been touting their states' low jobless rates as proof that they've bounced back from the recession. But unemployment only tells part of the story.
October 15, 2015
The Longer Americans Live Somewhere, the Less They Like It
The reasons for citizens' dissatisfaction vary from place to place -- but age isn't one of them.
October 7, 2015
The Top 10 Counties Where People Are Moving
Migration rates are near historic lows, but some places are still attracting large numbers of new residents. View data for every county.
October 2, 2015
How Americans' Spending Habits Have Changed Over a Decade
New data shows how much people have spent each year on health care, housing, transportation, education and retirement since 2004.
September 30, 2015
Ohio's New Ethics Strategy: Public Shaming Politicians
To deter questionable (but not necessarily illegal) conduct, the state plans to publicize when officials abuse their power.
September 16, 2015
How Consumer Spending Compares Across Metro Areas
View detailed data on what Americans are spending their money on.
September 4, 2015
5 Charts Showing How Nearly Every Age Group Is Less Employed
With one notable exception, all age groups are employed at rates below pre-recession levels.
September 2, 2015
How State and Local Construction Dollars Are Spent
Trends in spending on roads, schools, prisons and stadiums.
August 28, 2015
Where Police Don't Mirror Communities and Why It Matters
Minorities are underrepresented in nearly every large law enforcement agency in America. Some police agencies are now looking to change that.
August 21, 2015
The States Most Dependent on Sin Taxes
Taxing alcohol, tobacco and gambling isn't a good long-term revenue source. But states do it anyway.
August 18, 2015
Where Young People Found Work This Summer
A new report shows how many young people found jobs and the industries where they worked.
August 18, 2015
States Turn to Smokers for Band-Aid Budget Fixes
Fiscally and politically troubled states can solve some of their money problems by increasing cigarette taxes, but it’s no long-term solution. Here's why.
August 5, 2015
The Counties Where Wealthier People Are Moving
Long-awaited migration data show where people are relocating to and the wealth that they're bringing. View data for your county.
July 31, 2015
How Government Employment Costs Are Growing
The latest federal data illustrates how benefits are becoming more costly for states and localities.
July 21, 2015
Jobs Data for States, Halfway Through 2015
Nevada and North Dakota, once at the bottom and top of unemployment rates, are now seeing their situations reverse.
July 8, 2015
How States Are Confronting High Long-Term Unemployment
Numbers of long-term unemployed remain high in most states.
July 1, 2015
Millennials Remade Cities, But Will They Keep Living in Them?
Officials in several cities transformed by young adults try to predict their next move.
June 30, 2015
Where Neighborhood Inequality Is Most Severe
A new report assesses disparities across neighborhoods within each region. See how different areas compare.
June 25, 2015
A State-by-State Look at Growing Minority Populations
Minorities account for the majority of the population in only four states, but that's set to soon change. View updated data for each state.
June 24, 2015
Homeownership Drops to Lowest Level in Decades
A new report lays out why so many Americans are renting even though rents are rising nearly everywhere.
June 19, 2015
May Jobs Report Reveals Uneven Recovery
View how recent job growth compares for each state.
June 10, 2015
Police Aren't the Only Public Workers Wearing Body Cameras
Some cities have started equipping them not just to cops but also other government employees who often encounter confrontation.
June 3, 2015
The Recession’s Over, But Schools Aren’t Feeling the Recovery
New data suggests education spending remains below pre-recession levels in most states. View charts and maps showing trends for each state.
June 1, 2015
Lessons From L.A.'s Failed Fast-Food Ban
After Los Angeles banned the expansion of fast-food places in some parts, obesity actually increased.
June 1, 2015
Are Some Government Jobs Gone for Good?
In localities badly hurting for revenue, public employment may never return to pre-recession levels.
May 27, 2015
How States’ Job Growth Compares So Far This Year
While job growth mostly got off to a slow start, some states have fared well in recent months.
May 21, 2015
4 Takeaways From New Census Population Data on Cities
Plus, view data and estimates for dozens of jurisdictions.
May 20, 2015
What Background Checks Data Reveals About Gun Ownership in America
Most states ran fewer firearm background checks last year, but that's only part of the story.
May 6, 2015
States' Shifting Reliance on Income Versus Sales Taxes
Many states are weighing policies to shift their tax burden. View data showing how it's changed in each state over time.
May 1, 2015
What Cities Need to Close the Skills Gap for 'Smart Jobs'
"Advanced industry" jobs are expected to drive economic growth. But cities must invest in training and education to build a qualified workforce.
April 27, 2015
What People Want From Police Departments
A recent survey shows how Americans feel about the job police are doing and how they can improve.
April 13, 2015
What We Can Learn From the Police That Pioneered Body Cameras
Police across the country are being outfitted with body cameras, but managing all the hours of footage comes at a price and poses unintended consequences.
April 13, 2015
Why Health Depends Partly on Where People Live
Poor people are unhealthier not only because of their lower incomes, but also as a result of where they live.
April 3, 2015
Weak Government Job Growth, in 4 Charts
See just how far state and local government employment lags behind other sectors of the economy.
April 1, 2015
How Prepared Is Your Community for an Emergency?
A new survey shows the extent to which Americans around the country have taken measures to prepare for natural disasters or other emergencies.
April 1, 2015
Case Closed? How 'Solved' Murder Stats Are Misleading
Homicide clearance rates don't always mean what they seem to mean.
March 26, 2015
View New Population Estimates for Each County
New Census Bureau data shows which counties are gaining and losing residents.
March 17, 2015
States Start 2015 With Strong Job Growth
Thirty-nine states added jobs in January, while half recorded declines in their unemployment rates. View data for each state.
March 17, 2015
Which Companies Get the Most Federal Subsidies?
A new report tallies federal grants and tax credits across more than 100 different programs.
March 17, 2015
Why Some Public Pensions Could Soon Look Much Worse
A Governing analysis shows how a new accounting rule dramatically changes some plans' pension liabilities and will likely force many states to finally face their obligations.
March 13, 2015
Where Wages Are Lowest and Highest in America
Workers are feeling the pinch the most in the South and in areas highly dependent on the tourism industry. View data for nearly 200 metro areas.
March 4, 2015
What America Will Look Like Decades From Now
A Census report explores demographic shifts set to take place.
March 1, 2015
Workers Aren’t the Only Ones Waiting for Wage Growth
Decades of stagnant pay is costing states and localities tax revenue.
February 18, 2015
Survey Forecasts 2015 Public-Sector Employment
Most local governments expect to hire some workers, but more will not only continue to leave vacancies unfilled but also anticipate an uptick in layoffs.
February 3, 2015
Where Advanced Industry Jobs Are and Why They’re Crucial to Economic Growth
A new study takes a novel approach in identifying types of jobs vital to prosperity, finding some regional economies lag behind others.
February 1, 2015
Why Car-Free Cities Aren’t Right Around the Corner
Cities are trying to curb people’s driving habits, but most Americans aren’t ready to give up their cars.
February 1, 2015
Gentrification Has Accelerated Since the Millennium
Since 2000, urban neighborhoods have gentrified at twice the rate of the 1990s. View maps and data for the nation's 50 largest cities.
January 13, 2015
Counties Lag Behind National Recovery, Report Finds
A new National Association of Counties report depicts an economic recovery that hasn't yet been realized at the local level in much of the country.
January 1, 2015
The Suicide Crisis
The number of suicides in America is growing, particularly in the West, but the issue rarely garners attention from most policymakers.
December 5, 2014
Economy Records Strongest Job Growth in Years
Total payroll employment rose by 321,000 in November, but public-sector job growth remained unchanged.
December 3, 2014
The Biggest Drivers of Public Employees’ Rising Health Costs
A new survey examines the main reasons most government workers' health-care costs are increasing and how municipalities are responding.
December 1, 2014
Where More People Are Putting Down Roots
Having a high number of deeply entrenched residents helps shape the character of a city. See how your city’s population compares to others.
November 21, 2014
How States' Recent Job Growth Compares
See which states are adding more jobs and those that lag behind.
November 18, 2014
How Much State Prison Populations Are Projected to Grow
A handful of states expect their prison populations to shrink, but most expect growth, according to a new report. View data for each state.
November 13, 2014
America’s Most Internet-Connected Cities
For the first time, an annual Census survey measures local Internet adoption. See which cities have the highest rates.
November 7, 2014
How Poorly Government Job Growth Compares to Other Sectors
New data suggests job growth for state and local governments is among the slowest of any sector.
November 5, 2014
How Local Governments Are (or Aren’t) Examining Economic Development Dollars
A new survey provides a detailed portrait of how local governments use business incentives, finding many lack basic accountability measures.
November 4, 2014
Why Cyclist Groups Lashed Out on the Latest Bike Safety Report
An analysis by the Governors Highway Safety Association that called attention to an increase in cyclist deaths caused an uproar among bike advocates.
November 1, 2014
Broadband Expands into Rural America, But How Many Will Adopt?
High-speed Internet is finally starting to reach the nation’s most remote areas. Many residents, though, are slow to adopt it.
November 1, 2014
Aging Prisoners Shackle State Budgets
The nation’s graying prison population will strain the corrections system. There are ways to keep costs down, but they’re not often used.
October 22, 2014
Where Summer Crime Spikes the Most
Some places actually experience slightly less crime in the summer. But for those with big increases, what are police doing about it?
October 8, 2014
CDC: Banning Smoking in Public Housing Could Save States Millions
At a time when public housing agencies are increasingly considering smoking prohibitions, a new study shows that a ban would save nearly $500 million a year.
October 7, 2014
Asian-American Voters Could Swing November Elections
This fast-growing demographic group is largely ignored yet a sizable share hasn't decided how they'll vote, according to a new survey.
October 3, 2014
New Construction Pushing up Metro Area Apartment Vacancies
See metro areas with the largest increases.
October 1, 2014
Voter Turnout Plummeting in Local Elections
Voter turnout for local elections has historically lagged but is getting worse, prompting officials to explore new ways to get people to the polls.
September 5, 2014
Updated Government Job Totals
See how each level of government employment has fared in recent months.
September 3, 2014
Where Employees Are Working Longer Hours
Many local economies experienced a shift in average hours worked, a key indicator for future job growth. View data for more than 400 areas.
September 1, 2014
Income Inequality Climbing in Many Large Cities
Larger metro areas experience some of the highest income inequality, and since the Great Recession, it’s only gotten worse. On Thursday, fast-food workers in 100 cities protested for higher wages.
August 26, 2014
How Displaced Workers Are Recovering (or Not)
See charts and a few key takeaways on new data measuring how recently laid-off workers are faring across regions and industries.
August 22, 2014
Skyrocketing Court Fines Are Major Revenue Generator for Ferguson
Some say Ferguson's increasing reliance on court fines to fund its municipal operations may have contributed to its residents' distrust in law enforcement and government.
August 18, 2014
A State-by-State Breakdown of New Jobs Data
See how each state's economy fared over the past month and year.
August 11, 2014
Report Examines Income Gaps Across Metro Areas
A new report highlights a wide wage disparity across many regions. See data for your area.
August 11, 2014
Neighborhoods with the Highest Pedestrian Death Rates
View maps of a few of the nation's deadliest places for pedestrians.
August 4, 2014
How Have Bridge Conditions Changed in Your State?
Last week marked the seventh anniversary of the fatal Minneapolis bridge collapse. Check out 20 years of bridge data for each state...
August 1, 2014
Pedestrians Dying at Disproportionate Rates in America's Poorer Neighborhoods
Many cities have made pedestrian safety a priority, but their efforts rarely focus on poorer areas, which have approximately double the fatality rates of wealthier communities.
August 1, 2014
The Implications of Older Housing Stock for Cities
Old homes can pose a unique set of challenges for local governments. View detailed housing data for hundreds of cities.
July 31, 2014
A State-by-State Look at Where Each Generation Lives
Millennials, Gen Xers and baby boomers' different needs and wants lead them to flock to different places.
July 31, 2014
Pedestrian Deaths in Poorer Neighborhoods Report
Full results and data for Governing's report on pedestrian safety in poorer neighborhoods
July 28, 2014
Are STEM Graduates Really Having Trouble Finding Jobs?
A recent Census report suggested many STEM grads don't work in STEM occupations.
July 18, 2014
States Recording the Largest Job Gains, Losses in June
Thirty-three states added jobs last month, while 17 lost them.
July 8, 2014
Where Government Employment Most Lags Behind National Recovery
Job totals have returned to pre-recession levels, but the public sector lags far behind. View data for every state.
July 1, 2014
Where More People Are Living in High-Poverty Areas
A record number of Americans live in high-poverty areas -- but they aren't necessarily poor themselves. View a map and estimates for each state.
July 1, 2014
The Citizens Most Vocal in Local Government
Citizen participation in local government is abysmally low, but a national survey shows what types of people are most and least likely people to speak up.
July 1, 2014
Houston Passes What May Be the Nation’s First Anti-Hoarding Law
Echoing the format of reality TV shows, the city hopes to address not just safety hazards but the mental illnesses that drive people to hoard.
June 16, 2014
The Current State of State Budgets
A new report shows how states are managing their money.
June 10, 2014
The Most Small Business-Friendly States, Metro Areas
A new survey shows how small business owners perceive their state and local governments in terms of "business-friendliness."
June 6, 2014
Local Governments Account for All Public-Sector Job Growth This Year
Meanwhile, the latest Labor Department data shows states and the federal government have shed workers.
June 1, 2014
Why Camden, N.J., the Murder Capital of the Country, Disbanded Its Police Force
In hopes of reducing the city's high crime rate, Camden, N.J., made a controversial and unprecedented move a year ago to replace its police force.
June 1, 2014
Immigrants Countering Population Losses in Many Metro Areas
Policymakers are looking to attract immigrants in an effort to offset some regions' population declines.
May 22, 2014
New Population Estimates Highlight Nation's Fastest-Growing Cities
According to new Census estimates, most cities continue to record steady population gains. View maps and updated data for hundreds of cities.
May 20, 2014
State and Local Government Retirements Are on the Rise
A new survey shows most governments are experiencing more retirements and also hiring more.
May 16, 2014
How to Appeal to Millennial Voters
Results of a new nationwide survey show Millennials’ attitudes on a range of issues. Read key takeaways from the report.
May 16, 2014
States Record the Biggest Job Gains in Years
Thirty-nine states and the District of Columbia added jobs in April as the national economy had one of its strongest months in years.
May 9, 2014
Which Cities Have the Biggest Police Presence?
Police staffing levels vary greatly across U.S. cities, averaging about 17 officers per 10,000 residents. View and compare employment data for each jurisdiction.
May 8, 2014
How Long Must New Hires Work to Get Pension Benefits?
A recent Urban Institute analysis shows how many years new state workers will need to put in before earning pension benefits from their employers.
May 2, 2014
April Jobs Report: Local Governments Record Uptick in Hiring
According to the latest Labor Department data, local governments are continuing to add jobs while state government payrolls remain flat.
May 1, 2014
Where Purchasing Power of Incomes Has Grown
Some of the starkest illustrations of the uneven recovery are shown by a new measure estimating real personal income. See how data for each metro area compares.
April 18, 2014
States Adding the Most Jobs in March
States reporting the strongest job gains last month included Florida, North Carolina and Georgia. See totals for your state.
April 11, 2014
Survey Ranks Where Residents Are Most Satisfied with Their Communities
A new Gallup survey finds 85 percent of Americans are satisfied with the city or area where they live. Compare ratings for each metro area.
April 10, 2014
Where Americans Are Becoming Wealthier, Poorer
See how incomes have changed since the start of the recession for each county in America.
April 8, 2014
New Spending Transparency Grades Issued for States
A new report finds that while most state governments continue to post more spending data online, progress has been uneven. See how your state compares.
April 2, 2014
The Highest (and Lowest) Paying Jobs in Metro Areas
Wages vary greatly based on job types and where workers live. Review new data showing pay for hundreds of occupations based on metro area.
March 28, 2014
International Migration Driving Metro Area Population Gains
The Census Bureau’s international migration estimates include not only foreign immigrants, but natives and members of the military coming back home. View new population estimates for each area.
March 27, 2014
Where the Minimum Wage Has the Least Buying Power
While minimum-wage workers feel the pinch everywhere, it’s far more difficult to make a living in the nation’s most expensive urban centers. View data and read an analysis for more than 300 cities.
March 20, 2014
Government Workers More Prevalent in Red States
New data suggests Republican-leaning states are home to the highest concentrations of employees on government payrolls. View data for every state.
March 13, 2014
Where State Government Employment Has Dropped, Climbed
New data provides a detailed look at changes in state government employment. Read key takeaways and review data for each state.
March 7, 2014
Governments Record Positive Job Growth in February
After two consecutive dismal jobs reports, new Labor Department estimates mostly exceeded economists’ expectations.
March 5, 2014
Cities Consider Taxing Commuters to Drive Up Revenue
Taxes on commuters (and reverse commuters) represent a largely untapped source of revenue that cities may begin to target more aggressively -- particularly if they’re struggling. View data showing the cities with the most outside workers and reverse commuters.
March 1, 2014
Facing Obamacare Mandate, Governments May Turn to Temps
Many states and localities are cutting their employees' hours to avoid having to offer them health insurance. Some say they'll make up the workload by hiring more temporary workers.
February 25, 2014
Public Transportation’s Demographic Divide
People who use public transportation are disproportionately poorer than other commuters in nearly every U.S. city, according to an analysis.
February 24, 2014
States with the Most Minimum-Wage Workers
An increase in the federal minimum wage would have far greater effects in some states than others. View new data to see where workers are earning at or below the federal rate, which has been frozen at $7.25 since 2009.
February 20, 2014
Where Do People Spend the Most of Their Paycheck on Housing?
According to a new report, the share of households that spend more than half of their income on housing slightly declined last year – but the trend could be short-lived. View data for every state.
February 19, 2014
Survey Forecasts Better Public-Sector Job Market for 2014
Two-thirds of governments are expecting to hire this year, though not for very many positions.
February 7, 2014
Public Sector Records Worst Jobs Month in Over a Year
New figures show local, state and federal payrolls shed 29,000 jobs in January -- the steepest decline for the sector since October 2012.
February 6, 2014
Where Are Your County's Residents Moving to and from?
Regions in the southwest, Colorado and Florida added the most residents in 2011.
February 5, 2014
How Much States Lose to Corporate Tax Havens and How They Can Recoup It
A recent report finds that states lost $20.7 billion to tax havens in 2011 and tallies how much they can save by closing the offshore tax loophole.
February 4, 2014
What’s Behind States’ Population Growth?
Fifteen states experienced significant population increases last year. New Census estimates on migration trends and birth rates provide a glimpse into what's driving each state's growth. View data for your state.
January 29, 2014
Group Ranks How Well States Disclose Economic Development Subsidies
Some states lag far behind others in disclosing information online, according to a new report that reviews 246 subsidy programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
January 27, 2014
States Where Union Membership is Highest, Declining the Most
While union membership has slowly waned over the past several decades, some states are recording steeper declines than others.
January 23, 2014
Where Do Taxpayers Have the Highest Total Unfunded Pension Liability?
A new report examines pension liabilities for all types of retirement systems in select jurisdictions, showing sizable fiscal burdens in some cities.
January 23, 2014
Pension Reforms Push Employees Out the Door in Some States
An analysis of retirement data finds that pension reforms contributed to significantly more workers filing retirement paperwork in at least six states.
January 14, 2014
The Biggest Barriers to Small Business Growth
A new survey identifies the top political concerns and impediments to job growth for small businesses.
January 2, 2014
Parade Deaths Prompt Safety Recommendations for Localities
Some governments lack clear planning procedures and rules for parades. Read how localities can better prepare, along with a summary of recent parade accidents.
January 1, 2014
2014's Top 10 Legislative Issues to Watch
Plus six trending issues that could be big this year.
January 1, 2014
Snow: Every Budgeters’ Worst Nightmare
The unpredictability of snow doesn’t just drive citizens and public works crews crazy – it makes it nearly impossible for city officials to plan their budgets.
December 19, 2013
Cities Where Wages Haven't Kept Pace with Rising Housing Costs
With wages stagnant and housing costs rising, many Americans struggle to pay their rent and mortgage. View data showing each city's housing affordability burden.
December 17, 2013
Report Ranks States with Best and Worst Tax Administration
A new study by the Council on State Taxation compares states' tax appeals processes and procedural requirements. See how your state ranks.
December 13, 2013
The Most Walkable Cities and How Some Are Making Strides
Nationally, only a small fraction of people walk to work. But some cities' policy and planning efforts are making walking an everyday means of commuting. View data and maps for dozens of U.S. cities.
December 11, 2013
Report: Hunger, Homelessness on the Rise in Many Cities
A report finds many cities are receiving more requests for food and housing assistance, but expect fewer resources to meet the demand.
December 6, 2013
Government Job Growth Among Weakest of Any Industry
While private-sector employment may finally be ready to accelerate, state and local government job growth has been among the weakest of any industry.
December 3, 2013
States Make Turnaround in Higher Ed Funding
A preliminary survey by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities finds 37 states boosted fiscal year 2014 support for public four-year institutions. View data for each state.
December 1, 2013
The Public Employee 'Silver Tsunami' Looms for Governments
The long-anticipated wave of government worker retirements was delayed by the recession. But now, some agencies report signs it's starting to begin.
November 26, 2013
Spending Levels Rebounding for Most States, Report Finds
After declining last year, it's estimated that 41 states recorded spending increases in fiscal 2013. View up-to-date spending data for each state.
November 22, 2013
Latest Data Shows States Adding Most Jobs This Year
In nearly half of states, job growth for 2013 has yet to top 1 percent. View a map with updated employment estimates.
November 19, 2013
Gross Metropolitan Product Growth Slows in 2013, Report Finds
A new study finds a slowdown in economic growth for metro areas this year. View data showing projections for more than 300 areas.
November 19, 2013
The Most Dangerous Government Jobs and Why They're Riskier Than the Private Sector
Public-sector workers typically face a greater risk of suffering an injury on the job than other segments of the workforce. Read five key takeaways from new industry-level data.
November 13, 2013
The State of the Shrinking Postal Service Workforce
Despite its new deal with Amazon, it's unlikely the Postal Service will start to reverse years of workforce cuts. View data showing numbers of postal employees in each state.
November 8, 2013
Jobs Report: Federal Government Employment Continues Steady Decline
The federal government has now recorded monthly job declines every month since last September.
November 7, 2013
Housing Market Remains Tight in Most Metro Areas
Listed housing vacancies remain low across the vast majority of metro areas, new Census estimates show. View areas with the least vacancies and historical data for each market.
October 29, 2013
Cost of College Continues to Skyrocket While Policymakers Seek Solutions
The cost of higher education has far outpaced state funding, household incomes and inflation. Now, the president has put the issue back on the policy radar.
October 23, 2013
Where Are More Older Workers Putting Off Retirement?
Americans are still working longer than they used to. View data showing states where more people tend to remain employed later in their careers.
October 11, 2013
Report: Cuts to City Personnel Budgets Slowly Declining (Except Pensions)
Hiring freezes, furloughs and other personnel cuts are slowly beginning to taper off in some of the nation's cities, a new report finds.
October 10, 2013
Analysis: Do Business-Friendly Tax Climates Yield The Most Jobs?
The Tax Foundation's ranking of states based on how business-friendly they are has generated a lot of attention, but a better rating doesn't necessarily mean a state has a stronger economy.
October 7, 2013
Despite Government Cutbacks, Student Interest in Public Sector Careers Grows
Despite the bleak employment outlook and negative rhetoric, recent surveys suggest enrollment for public administration programs and interest in government careers has increased.
October 3, 2013
States and Agencies Most Affected by Federal Shutdown
Federal workers sent home this week aren't limited to the Washington, D.C., region. View states and agencies most affected by the shutdown.
October 2, 2013
Mapping the Nation’s Most Densely Populated Cities
View maps showing population density and land area for the 200 most populous cities.
October 1, 2013
Millennials Face Hurdles Breaking into Public Sector
To compete with the private sector and nonprofits these days, states and localities have to rethink their recruiting and hiring processes.
September 25, 2013
Analysis: Who's Moving to Your State?
Each state’s new crop of residents varies significantly across demographic groups. See how those moving to your state compare to others.
September 12, 2013
Oil Boom Fuels Fastest-Growing Metro Area, Midland, Texas -- But at a Price
Midland, Texas, ranks at or near the top of the list in every measure of recent economic and population growth. See how your area compares.
September 6, 2013
Government Employment Remains Stagnant in New Jobs Report
As the recovery drags on, state and local government payrolls aren't expanding.
September 4, 2013
What’s Behind the Drop in College Enrollment?
New data indicates colleges recorded a record drop in enrollment last year. We take a look at factors driving the decline.
August 29, 2013
A State-by-State Look at Flat Wages
Most segments of the workforce haven't seen wage growth in more than a decade. View maps and wage data to see how your state compares.
August 26, 2013
Public Sector Has Some of Oldest Workers Set to Retire
Industry observers warn that the public sector is ill-prepared for the departure of this large segment of the workforce.
August 16, 2013
Report: Travel, Tourism Workers Can't Afford Housing in Costly Metro Areas
Hotel, restaurant and travel industry employees often can't afford housing costs in travel destinations, a report finds. View rental and home prices for more than 200 metro areas.
August 13, 2013
Report Forecasts Slow Revenue Growth for States
View and compare states' revenue projections for fiscal year 2014
August 12, 2013
The Recovery Act Saved Public-Sector Jobs, But Can Governments Retain Them?
The stimulus played a large role in propping up schools and other public-sector payrolls as agencies sought to stave off job cuts during the Great Recession. Where these jobs stand today, though, varies greatly.
August 2, 2013
State Government Employment Hits 8-Year Low
U.S. Labor Department estimates released Friday indicate state government employment has reached the lowest levels since May 2005.
August 2, 2013
Farm Bill Holds Fate of Food Stamp Program
The cuts and changes Congress has been weighing to the farm bill could knock millions off SNAP rolls and reverse years of progress states have made in streamlining applications. See data showing how each state could be affected.
August 1, 2013
How Governments Are Innovating Their Workforces
The results of a Governing survey paint a portrait of a public sector hard-hit by budget cuts, pay freezes and a lack of advancement opportunities. But employees have reasons for optimism.
July 31, 2013
Governing Survey Gauges Job Satisfaction, Workforce Practices
A Governing survey of senior state and local officials paints a portrait of a sector hard-hit by budget cuts, pay freezes and a lack of advancement opportunities. But the news isn’t all bad.
July 30, 2013
Food Stamp Enrollment Still Climbing in Many States
While the economy recovers, SNAP participation hasn't yet fallen. View charts and updated data for each state.
July 22, 2013
Which States Have Recovered the Most Lost Jobs?
Last month marked the four-year anniversary of the end of the recession. While employment has returned to pre-recession levels in a few states, most are still far from recovering lost jobs.
July 17, 2013
As Obesity Measures Gain Prevalence, Limitations Exist for Policymaking
Both doctors and public officials are aware of the limitations created by using body mass index to define obesity, which is now considered a disease. But no clear alternative has emerged.
July 11, 2013
Data Shows Varying Housing Costs for Metro Areas
View updated housing data for select metro areas.
July 10, 2013
What Aging Population? 5 Areas Getting Younger
While the nation is aging, a few select areas are not only bucking the trend but may actually be getting younger.
July 2, 2013
Departing Secretary LaHood Previews What's Ahead for Transportation
As U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood leaves office Tuesday, he sees a path forward for solving transportation's biggest problems.
June 28, 2013
What the GAO Predicts for States and Localities’ Future
A recent report by the Government Accountability Office finds a widening gap between projected revenues and expenses for years to come. Rising health and pension costs and less federal funding are just a few of the reasons.
June 25, 2013
Internet Connectivity Gap Narrows, But Disparities Still Exist Across States
How well-connected Americans are varies greatly across regions, racial groups and income levels. View data for each state.
June 21, 2013
Ohio, Texas, Michigan Added Most Jobs in May
View updated jobs data for each state.
June 20, 2013
States Awarding More Big Tax Incentive Deals, Report Finds
States have collectively awarded $64 billion in 'megadeals' after many pursued top employers more aggressively in recent years. View award totals for each state.
June 13, 2013
New Census Estimates Show Areas Growing Oldest the Fastest
New Census data shows most regions are seeing their age 65 and older population climb. But for some jurisdictions, the growth has been far more pronounced than others. View new demographic data for states and counties.
June 12, 2013
What Tennessee Can Learn About Asking Employees to Reapply for Their Jobs
Tennessee is asking its 1,600 IT employees to reapply for their jobs. The state may learn from Colorado and Hillsborough County, Fla., which have both overhauled their workforces in this way.
June 11, 2013
Metro Areas with the Most Blue-Collar STEM Jobs
A new Brookings report finds that there are far more STEM employees in the United States than previously estimated -- and the demand is growing. View maps and data for metro areas.
June 11, 2013
The Implication of Long-Term Pay Freezes for States, Localities
Many public employees have waited years for salary increases, and recent surveys indicate pay freezes are continuing to persist. The implications have been far-reaching, from hindering employee retention to hurting morale.
June 7, 2013
As Feds Make Cuts, Local Government Employment Ticks Up
While the federal government began to feel the effects of the sequester, localities have added jobs in recent months.
June 6, 2013
Teacher Pension Systems Headed in Opposite Directions, Report Finds
A report published today examines projected retiree costs for three large school districts, evaluating cost savings of recent pension reforms.
June 4, 2013
Analysis: Disparity Exists in Condition of Local vs. State Bridges
Bridges localities own are more than twice as likely to be considered structurally deficient as those on state roads. View detailed bridge inspection data for your state.
May 31, 2013
New Jersey's Tax Incentives Soar as Job Growth Lags Behind
Despite awarding nearly $2 billion in tax incentives, New Jersey's job growth trails other states.
May 28, 2013
States with Worst Bridges Face Uphill Battle Making Repairs
As transportation advocates push for bridge upgrades in response to the collapse in Washington state last week, it’s clear that some states have far more work to do than others.
May 23, 2013
Are Cities That Lost Population Making a Comeback?
New Census estimates suggest that many larger cities continue to see populations climb, including some that could be experiencing their first growth in years. View data for each city.
May 21, 2013
Education Spending Per Student Fell For First Time in 2011
Per pupil spending fell for the first time ever in fiscal year 2011, with 21 states reporting declines. See rankings and totals for each state.
May 17, 2013
Which States Added the Most Jobs This Year?
View data showing changes in total employment for each state so far this year.
May 16, 2013
Areas with Most Commuters Reap Benefits and Costs
Many of the nation’s urban areas see their populations jump during the day with an influx of workers, requiring additional public services. View which counties have the most out-of-town commuters.
May 13, 2013
Which States Saw Voter Turnout Jump, Decline Most Last Year?
Thirty-eight states saw voter turnout drop last year, driven in large part by young adults and non-Hispanic whites heading to the polls at lower rates.
May 8, 2013
GAO Report Paints Bleak Fiscal Outlook for States, Local Governments
A new report by the Government Accountability Office forecasts a gloomy outlook for state and local government budgets, finding an ever-widening gap between projected revenues and expenses for years to come.
May 3, 2013
Jobs Report Exceeds Expectations as Unemployment Rate Falls
The economy added 165,000 jobs last month while the unemployment rate fell slightly to 7.5 percent.
May 2, 2013
Survey: Median Pay for Top Local Officials is $103K
A new survey tallies pay and benefits for chief appointed officials across the country, finding compensation varies greatly by locality.
April 29, 2013
Youth Unemployment Reached Record Highs: What Can Officials Do About It?
The number of out-of-work teens and twenty-somethings climbed to record levels during the recession. View data for each state.
April 28, 2013
America’s Rural-Urban Divide is Growing
Rural populations are shrinking as Americans migrate to cities and suburbs. As a result, rural areas are mobilizing to grow and convince residents to stay.
April 19, 2013
Midwestern States Suffered Most Job Losses in March
Most of the job losses last month were concentrated in Midwestern states. View employment data for each state.
April 19, 2013
Public Approval of State and Local Government Rises, Federal Rating Tumbles
Public approval of state governments is at its highest since 2008, while views of Washington have plummeted to an all-time low, according to a new survey.
April 18, 2013
Suburbs Suffered Most Job Losses During Recession, Report Finds
The sprawl of jobs outward from downtown areas slowed during the recession. View data for 100 metro areas.
April 12, 2013
State Tax Collections Reached Record High in 2012
New census data indicates state tax revenues finally exceeded pre-recession levels. View revenue data and graphs for each state.
April 5, 2013
Government Employment Changes Little as Job Growth Slows
The U.S. economy added only 88,000 jobs last month, far below economists' expectations.
April 5, 2013
The Metro Economies Most Dependent on Manufacturing Jobs
Manufacturing jobs account for a sizable portion of the employment base in many regions. Read our analysis of the top 10 areas, along with data for more than 300 metro areas.
April 2, 2013
Survey Ranks Most (and Least) Small Business-Friendly States, Cities
A new survey of nearly 8,000 small businesses rates state and metro area business climates, providing clues to what these economic engines value most.
March 29, 2013
Unemployment Rate Falls in 22 States
View updated jobs data for each state.
March 29, 2013
How Smaller Cities Hold onto Major Employers
When a city’s economy depends on one employer, leaders will go to great lengths to make them happy. But to survive, towns need to attract new businesses.
March 26, 2013
Immigrant Population Growing Faster Than Natives in Many Metro Areas
New census estimates find international migration surpassed domestic population growth in 135 metro areas. View data showing which metro areas are welcoming the most immigrants.
March 26, 2013
New Transparency Grades Issued for States
A new report finds all 50 states now maintain online spending transparency websites. View grades issued for each state.
March 20, 2013
Data Shows County-to-County Migration Patterns
New census figures estimate where residents are moving across county borders. View data for your area.
March 14, 2013
Metro Areas in South, Western U.S. Record Largest Population Gains
Census data signals nearly all the nation’s fastest-growing metro areas are concentrated in the South and western U.S. View new population estimates for each area.
March 11, 2013
Which Transit Agencies Added, Lost Riders Last Year?
Data released this week finds Americans made a record 10.5 billion trips in 2012. View totals for 113 different transit systems.
March 11, 2013
State of the State Addresses: What Are Governors' Priorities?
We've summarized all the key issues governors talked about in their speeches to kick off legislative sessions.
March 8, 2013
State Governments Continue Slashing Payrolls
State governments cut 53,000 jobs over the past five months, with education employees being hardest hit.
March 6, 2013
Which Government Services Are Citizens Most, Least Satisfied With?
See how certain municipal services score in citizen satisfaction surveys.
February 28, 2013
Disability Rate Among Government Benefit Recipients Varies
Nearly a third of all beneficiaries of income-based assistance from the federal government or states reported a disability in 2011.
February 25, 2013
Visualizing Governors' State of the State Addresses
What words were uttered most often in governors' State of the State addresses this year?
February 21, 2013
Average Tax Refunds: Connecticut, Nevada and Texas are Highest
Rural states tend to have lower federal tax refunds.
February 13, 2013
Survey Signals Possible Public-Sector Hiring Rebound
State and local governments may start to hire, but employment remains below pre-recession levels.
February 10, 2013
Which Metro Areas Have the Most Graduate Degrees?
More Americans are earning graduate degrees. See how your area compares to others.
February 6, 2013
Group Grades Online Transparency for States, Local Governments
See how well state and local governments sites promote transparency.
February 1, 2013
State, Local Government Employment Remains Steady
View monthly changes in state and local government employment.
January 31, 2013
States Experience Disparity in Police Fatality Rates as Agencies Target Safety
An analysis shows fatality rates vary by state, with most deaths in the South.
January 31, 2013
Mexico City's Recycling Incentive: More Food
Mexico City has a massive trash problem that's partially caused by citizens' resistance to recycle. To encourage them to do so, the city gives residents food vouchers in exchange for their recyclable waste.
January 31, 2013
Report Identifies Top Job-Poaching States
Many states engage in bidding wars to pull companies into their region. A new report examines recent high-profile tax incentive deals.
January 30, 2013
States, Local Governments Prepare for Aging Population
A panel discusses how governments can prepare for the new wave of retirees.
January 27, 2013
How Do U.S. Health Costs Compare to Other Countries?
View an interactive map with health costs for each country, and read our first-ever International Issue online Feb. 1.
January 25, 2013
Report Grades Cities’ Spending Transparency Websites
A new report examines 30 cities' online transparency efforts. View scores for each local government.
January 24, 2013
How Rare Are Municipal Bankruptcies?
Local governments rarely opt to file for bankruptcy. View totals and bankruptcy laws for each state.
January 18, 2013
New York, New Jersey, Georgia Add Most Jobs in December
View updated job totals and unemployment rates for each state.
January 11, 2013
Gun Background Checks Skyrocket in Nearly All States
FBI Background checks for firearms jumped last month as calls for gun control intensified. View totals for each state.
January 8, 2013
How Well is Power Spread Across Metro Areas?
An index ranks metro areas by how well authority is consolidated or shared among municipalities.
December 28, 2012
Governments Resisting the Urge to Merge
Despite strained finances, there’s been no significant shift toward consolidation in recent years.
December 20, 2012
Spotlight Shifts to Mental Health and States' Funding Cuts
Many states' mental health funding declined in recent years, but now some lawmakers have focused their attention on the issue after last week's shooting deaths in Newtown, Conn. View charts and spending amounts for each state.
December 20, 2012
Census Bureau Releases 2012 State Population Estimates
View maps showing recent population changes for all states.
December 6, 2012
View State Government Financial Data Released by Census Bureau
View detailed financial figures for each state.
December 3, 2012
Group Rates Best, Worst Cities for LGBT Equality
A new report by the Human Rights Campaign assessing local laws policies for LGBT individuals.
November 29, 2012
Report: 21 States’ Pension Systems Not Fiscally Sound
A new report examines the financial health of state pension systems. View maps and data for each state.
November 26, 2012
Personal Incomes Rise in All Metro Areas, Most Counties
View charts and maps with new personal income data for counties and metro areas.
November 20, 2012
Unemployment Rates Drop in 37 States
Jobless rates fell in most states last month. View updated totals for each state.
November 16, 2012
Analysis: Redistricting Mostly Protected Incumbents in 2012 Congressional Races
Most U.S. House members easily won re-election last week. View partisan composition for each state.
November 7, 2012
California Unions Help Defeat Ballot Measure Targeting Campaign Donations
Voters rejected Prop. 32, which would have restricted unions from using payroll deductions to fund campaigns.
November 2, 2012
Jobs Report: Public Sector Employment Drops Slightly After Rebound
State and local government employment fell slightly in October after revised estimates indicated the sector rebounded in recent months.
October 31, 2012
Tax-Exempt Properties Rise as Cities Cope with Shrinking Tax Bases
A comprehensive solution to replenish municipal coffers has yet to emerge.
October 25, 2012
Which States, Districts Are Most Gerrymandered?
A new report examines redrawn Congressional districts, highlighting ones with unusual boundaries.
October 19, 2012
Unemployment Rates Fall in Most Battleground States
Jobless rates dropped in most swing states last month. View updated data for all 50 states.
October 18, 2012
Survey: Obama Supports State and Local Governments, Congress Does Not
A Governing survey finds most state and local officials believe the president's policies support their government, but far fewer feel the same way about Congress.
October 16, 2012
New Data Shows Where Americans Bike to Work
Recent census data indicates bicycle commuting has jumped in some cities far more than others. View interactive data maps for more than 400 localities.
October 12, 2012
Analysis Offers Path to Michigan's Economic Prosperity
Data shows how jobs requiring high educational attainment lead to a state's economic prosperity.
October 8, 2012
Revised Jobs Numbers Indicate Upswing in Education Employment
Revised figures in Friday’s jobs report show a noticeable jump in education jobs, with employment levels above last year.
October 4, 2012
Where Do Most Commuters Walk to Work?
Maps shows areas where most people walk to work with new census data.
September 28, 2012
Data Shows Where Workers Relying More on Public Transportation
See which metro areas have the highest share of public transportation commuters, according to new census estimates.
September 20, 2012
Income Gap Widens in 20 States, Census Data Shows
Census Bureau estimates released this morning show income inequality increasing across much of the country. View data for each state with our interactive map.
September 19, 2012
Is Bankruptcy a Viable Tool for Struggling Cities?
Panelists at Governing's Cost of Government summit shared their experiences with Chapter 9 bankruptcy.
September 13, 2012
Household Incomes Decline in 29 States
New data from the Census Bureau shows household incomes dropped in most states last year.
September 13, 2012
North Dakota Leads in Hyper-Local Government
The state, which has the most governments per capita, represents one of the nation's last remaining systems of hyper-local governance.
September 7, 2012
Local Government Employment Declines for 12th Month
Friday's jobs report marks a year of declining local government employment. Some, though, think the end of cuts is near.
August 30, 2012
Which States Have Most Fragmented Local Governments?
New data indicates no significant shift toward consolidation has occurred in recent years.
August 30, 2012
Mapping Baby Boomers Across the U.S.
View interactive maps showing each county's population figures for baby boomers and other age groups.
August 23, 2012
Full-Time Government Jobs Down, Part-Time Employment Up
New data shows many state and local governments cut full-time staff last year while adding part-time workers.
August 17, 2012
Unemployment Rates Rise in 44 States
The July jobs report shows an uptick in unemployment for nearly every state. View current and historical data for each state.
August 15, 2012
Are State Pension Funds Paying Wall Street Too Much?
A report suggests pension funds pay too much in fees for paltry returns. See how much each state pays Wall Street.
August 9, 2012
State Pension Assets Grew in 2011, But Large Gaps Remain
New census data shows how pension systems fared in 2011. View aggregate totals for each state.
August 7, 2012
Survey: State Budgets Stabilize, But Remain Vulnerable
Most states’ fiscal outlook for the rest of the year is stable, according to an NCSL survey. View maps with projections for every state.
August 3, 2012
The Best Days to Commute in Metro Areas
New data shows what day you chose to drive matters. View data showing the best and worst days for 100 metro areas.
August 3, 2012
Jobs Report: Governments Cut 9K Jobs in July
State governments cut 6,000 jobs last month, and localities haven't added total jobs in nearly a year.
August 1, 2012
States and Localities Take Hit in Libor Scandal
Recent allegations of banks manipulating the Libor rate have some governments considering legal action. But which municipalities were affected and how much did they lose?
July 27, 2012
Ranking the Nation’s Worst Friday Afternoon Commutes
Which areas have the worst traffic on Friday afternoons? View data for 100 metro areas.
July 25, 2012
Mapping Municipal Bankruptcies
A total of 27 cities and municipal agencies have sought bankruptcy protection since 2010. View a map with details on each filing.
July 20, 2012
Jobless Rates Rise as Calif., Ohio, North Carolina Add Most Jobs
Some states added jobs, but jobless rates increased for most states last month. View updated data for each state.
July 19, 2012
Some States Lag Behind in Internet Adoption
While Internet adoption has increased, some regions of the country trail others. View charts and data for each state.
July 16, 2012
Transit Accessibility to Jobs for Metro Areas Examined
A Brookings Institution study shows jobs are largely inaccessible to the nation's suburban workforce via transit. View data for 100 metro areas.
July 12, 2012
Government Construction Spending Plummets to Nearly 7-Year Low
While private-sector development has fueled construction industry growth, government spending has dropped to the lowest level since 2006.
July 3, 2012
July Fourth is Most Dangerous Day for Teen Drivers
Data shows more teenage drivers are killed on the holiday than any other day. View state totals for each month.
June 28, 2012
Population Growth Accelerates in Large Cities: Census
New census estimates show population is increasing in large cities faster than the nation as a whole, and the growth appears to be accelerating. View an interactive map with updated figures for the 1,000 largest U.S. cities.
June 22, 2012
How Do Americans Spend Their Time?
See how much time Americans work, relax or engage in other activities in an interactive chart with Labor Department data released Friday.
June 21, 2012
D.C., West Virginia, North Dakota Record Largest Education Spending Increases
New data shows education spending and revenues per pupil for each state.
June 14, 2012
Census Releases New County Housing Unit Estimates
How many housing units have been added in your county? View 2011 estimates released Thursday.
June 14, 2012
Analysis: Cities with More Walkers, Bike Commuters are Less Obese
A GOVERNING data analysis finds metro areas with more walkers or cyclists are strongly correlated with healthier weights. View our detailed data for each community.
June 8, 2012
What Cities Have Longest Public Stairways?
Some cities are home to many stairways, often hidden from public view. We list some of the longest.
June 4, 2012
Public vs. Private Sector Cuts: A State-by-State Breakdown
While most governments have made cuts, some states have added public sector jobs since the start of the recession.
June 1, 2012
Economy Slows as Employers Add Fewest Jobs in a Year
Employers added few jobs, while government employment remained mostly unchanged last month.
May 22, 2012
Which States Have Highest Injury Risk?
New Mexico residents are almost three times more likely to die from injuries than people from New Jersey. Check to see how your state ranks on injury fatality rates.
May 22, 2012
Traffic Firm Ranks Most Congested Corridors
As you head out of town for Memorial Day weekend, take note of where the nation's most congested corridors and cities are, according to a new study.
May 18, 2012
Indiana, Texas, Georgia Add Most Jobs in April
A few states added significant jobs last month. See how your state's employment has changed over the year.
May 17, 2012
Demographic Shift Underway: Majority of Babies are Minorities
Minorities now account for the majority of babies in the U.S. View new estimates of minority children for each state.
May 16, 2012
U.S. Ranks High on Internet Usage, Despite Slow Speeds
The United States may lag behind in Web speeds, but Americans use the Internet far more than those in other countries.
May 14, 2012
Labor Force Participation Declines in States, Inflates Jobless Rate
Many states have experienced large drops in labor force participation since the recession began. View historical data for each state.
May 7, 2012
Mapping Historic City Halls
View an interactive map of more than 600 city halls throughout the country.
May 4, 2012
Local Governments Cuts Accelerate in Jobs Report
Previous employment estimates showed local government cuts subsiding, but new figures tell a different story.
May 1, 2012
Use Tax Revenues: How Much Are States Not Collecting?
Many taxpayers opt not to pay use tax. View reported totals and estimated amounts uncollected for each state.
April 26, 2012
Average Credit Scores Vary Across States
An array of common indicators provide insight into a region's economy. A drop in credit scores can also explain a region's economic situtation.
April 25, 2012
Map: Personal Income Per Capita for U.S. Counties
View new and historical data on personal income per capita for each U.S. county.
April 18, 2012
Public Employee Salary Disclosure Survey
View results of GOVERNING's public employee salary survey.
April 18, 2012
Disclosing Public Employee Pay Troubles Some Officials
A new GOVERNING survey finds some public officials do not think their compensation should be public as governments work to make the information more available.
April 12, 2012
State Tax Collections Rise, But Growth Remains Slow
New figures show state revenues rose in FY2011, but remain below pre-recession levels. View data for your state.
April 11, 2012
Bicycle Commuting Gains Traction In Cities
Many city dwellers are opting to ride their bikes to work. See data for your area on our interactive map.
April 6, 2012
State, Local Government Employment Remains Flat in Jobs Report
The latest jobs report shows state and local government employment remained mostly unchanged in March.
April 5, 2012
2011 Population Estimates Show Gains in South, West
View 2011 population estimates for all counties and metro areas, released today by the Census Bureau.
April 3, 2012
2012 County Health Rankings Highlight Income Gap
While a myriad of factors determine a community’s overall health, a strong correlation exists between median household income and health outcomes, according to Governing’s analysis of data from the 2012 County Health Rankings, conducted by the University of Wisconsin and sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
April 2, 2012
What Was Your Neighborhood Like in 1940?
The National Archives released 1940 census records, lifting the veil on details for Americans living through the Great Depression.
March 30, 2012
Unemployment Rates Fall in 29 States
Unemployment rates declines in 29 states, with workers exiting the labor force driving much of the largest declines.
March 30, 2012
State Broadband Initiatives Accelerate to Bridge Digital Divide
States have recently accelerated efforts to boost Internet connection speeds and expand access to unserved regions of the country.
March 30, 2012
State Broadband Projects and Initiatives
A summary of various initiatives states are pursuing to expand broadband access.
March 26, 2012
Map: California Home to Most Densely Populated Areas
View city population density statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau's updated list of urban areas.
March 23, 2012
Which States Have the Highest Public Corruption Convictions?
See how your state compares to others.
March 16, 2012
Tennessee Legislature Passes Resolution Urging Titans to Sign Peyton Manning
The Tennessee Legislature has passed a resolution pleading the Tennessee Titans to sign quarterback Peyton Manning.
March 15, 2012
Contractors, Quasi-Public Agencies Avoid Scrutiny, New Studies Show
Two new reports indicate contractors and quasi-public agencies often avert public records laws, leaving citizens in the dark.
March 14, 2012
Report: States Make Significant Strides in Transparency
Several states upgraded their transparency efforts last year, while others lag behind. See how each state ranked in a new report.
March 12, 2012
Governing Data Relaunches With New Look
Looking for data? Check out the new and improved Governing Data site.
March 9, 2012
Are Local Government Cuts Nearing An End?
New data shows local public employee cuts have slowed. Does this mean governments are about to rehire?
March 1, 2012
Average Unemployment Rate Fell in Most States in 2011
How did your state's unemployment rate compare to others last year? BLS data shows year-over-year improvements for most states.
February 28, 2012
Breaking Down Governors' 2012 State of the State Addresses
Governors' recent State of the State addresses provide clues to their priorities. We've compiled speeches and word clouds for each speech.
February 16, 2012
Prison Counts Decline As States Enact Reforms
The nation's prison population recently declined for the first time in nearly 40 years. View a map and detailed data for your state.
February 8, 2012
View Seats, Party Control for State Legislatures
Nearly 6,000 state legislators are up for election this year. Visit GOVERNING's Election Center 2012 to view our maps and data with seats and party control for each legislature.
February 3, 2012
Top Economists Doubt Further Jobless Rate Drop
Economists issue their 2012 forecast for the nation's unemployment rate, a key issue in the November elections.
February 1, 2012
OMB Controller Werfel Shares Lessons of Recovery Act
U.S. Controller Danny Werfel discussed key lessons from the Recovery Act to attendees at Governing's Outlook in the States and Localities conference.
January 31, 2012
The Future of Federal Spending
A slew of different players are considering major changes to how federal spending is tracked and all of their efforts will likely impact state and local governments.
January 24, 2012
Alabama, Michigan Report Largest Unemployment Rate Declines
New Labor Department figures show unemployment rates declined in 37 states last month.
January 20, 2012
Mild Winter Means Less Snow Plowing, More Money for Cities
Several of the nation's typically-snowiest cities have largely been spared this winter, resulting in cost savings.
January 19, 2012
View Historical Changes in Local Government Employment
How has local government employment changed? View historical data to see employment for various job functions.
January 18, 2012
Local Libraries Weather Threat of Cuts in Internet Age
Local libraries have fought back against budget cuts and adapted to new technology at a time when more are seeking information online.
January 6, 2012
Local Governments Cut 181K Jobs in 2011
An estimated 280,000 public employee jobs were cut in 2011, with local governments accounting for most of the losses.
January 3, 2012
State, Local Governments Face Language Barriers
Many local governments are accommodating droves of non-English speakers. View language data for each county and state.
December 20, 2011
Unemployment Rates Fall in 43 States
New figures released by the Labor Department show unemployment rates fell in 43 states. View state breakdowns for government payrolls.
December 20, 2011
Police Deaths Climb to 4-Year-High
Law enforcement deaths jumped this year to the highest total since 2007.
December 16, 2011
Proposal Calls for Major Shift in Federal Spending Transparency
A federal board has proposed a centralized system for tracking spending. If implemented, officials say it could reduce state and local governments' reporting burden and improve data access for citizens.
December 12, 2011
Traffic Fatalities Reach Record Low, Pedestrian Deaths Increase
Recently-released National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows fatalities declined in 31 states in 2010. View current and historical totals for your state.
December 6, 2011
Texas, N.C., Fla. Gain Most Residents from Other States
New data shows Americans are moving to Texas and other states in the South and western U.S. Use our interactive tool to see where residents in your state are moving.
December 2, 2011
Layoffs Continue as Jobless Rate Drops
The U.S. unemployment rate fell to 8.6 percent in November, the lowest in two-and-a-half years. Governments, though, lost another 20,000 jobs for the month.
December 1, 2011
Report: States Utilize Education Data, But Further Improvement Needed
A new report finds many states have made progress in compiling student data, but further improvements are needed for educators to fully utilize education data systems.
November 30, 2011
Data: Measuring the 'Clean Economy'
How many "clean" jobs are in your area? View detailed numbers compiled by the Brookings Institution and Battelle Technology Partnership.
November 22, 2011
Unemployment Rates Fall in 36 States
New figures showed 36 states recorded monthly unemployment rate declines in October, but numbers for most states remained relatively unchanged.
November 21, 2011
Data Shows States' Education Spending Jumped Before Recent Cuts
Education spending per pupil increased about 15 percent between fiscal years 2006 and 2009, but has since dropped. View state-by-state breakdowns of financial figures.
November 18, 2011
Rust Belt, Deep South Have Most Homegrown Residents
New census data shows areas of the country with highest concentrations of native residents. View detailed data for your community.
November 15, 2011
More Americans Staying Put as Mobility Reaches Record Low
New data indicates more Americans are putting plans to move on hold. View mobility data for each state to see how your state compares.
November 8, 2011
Calif. Transparency Site's Closing Highlights Demand for Centralized Accountability
As states continue to post more public information online, government transparency advocates say centralized sites are crucial to help citizens find what they're looking for.
November 4, 2011
State Governments Shred 20,000 Jobs in October
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released new employment figures for October, showing governments continued to cut payrolls. State governments reported the most significant decline, losing 20,000 jobs for the month.
November 1, 2011
Census: State, Local Government Revenue Dropped 22% in 2009
Data released Monday shows revenues for U.S. state and local governments fell more than 22 percent in fiscal year 2009. View a breakdown of financial figures for each state.
October 31, 2011
Health Data Shows Massachusetts Most Insured State, Texas Ranks Last
New data provides estimates for health insurance coverage for all states, counties in U.S.
October 27, 2011
New levee database lists inspection ratings, other details
The National Levee Database, unveiled to the public on Thursday, includes detailed information on more than 14,000 miles of federal levees.
October 21, 2011
Monthly Unemployment Rates Drop in Half of States
New figures released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that 25 states reported slight declines in unemployment. View and compare figures for each state with our data tool.
October 20, 2011
Educators Question Why Fla. Gov. Scott Compiles, Publicizes Higher Ed. Data
Fla. Gov. Rick Scott has posted university faculty salaries online, and is now compiling additional data. Some public educators, though, question his motives as the state considers reforms to higher education.
October 17, 2011
More Than 300 Transit Projects Receive Federal Funds
More than 300 federal grants were awarded for transportation projects. View a complete list with projects in your state.
October 13, 2011
How Did Public Employee Retirement Systems Fare During the Market Decline?
U.S. state and local public employee retirement systems lost $726 billion in fiscal year 2009, according to new data. View figures for each state to see how they compare.
October 12, 2011
Census Bureau Releases List of Jurisdictions to Offer Voter Language Assistance
The U.S. Census Bureau has released a new list of jurisdictions required to offer language assistance as mandated by the Voting Rights Act. Check and see if your area is covered.
October 7, 2011
Local Government Employment Drops in September
Local governments lost more jobs in September than any other industry, according to figures released today from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
October 5, 2011
Report: Agencies Facing More Challenges for FOIA Information
A new report finds an increase in court challenges to agencies withholding information specified in Freedom of Information Act requests.
September 30, 2011
Compare Public Employee Figures for Your State
New census estimates detail each state's public workforce. Use our data tool to view figures for your state and see how they compare to the private sector.
September 29, 2011
Census: Government's Share of Workforce Varies Greatly Among States
New census data shows concentrations of public employees throughout the country. Public employee figures vary greatly in different areas, accounting for up to a quarter of the workforce in some states.
September 27, 2011
Top Investors in Teaching: 2000-2008
A recent study identified the top 30 foundations contributing to teaching from 2000 to 2008.
September 27, 2011
Unemployment Rates Remain Unchanged: State Rankings
Unemployment rates have continued to remain steady for the past several months. Use our new data tool to track unemployment for your state.
September 23, 2011
Nebraska Gains Most Median Income Growth in 2010
According to recently released 2010 U.S. Census data, Nebraska had the highest median income growth out of all 50 states between 2009 and 2010.
May 3, 2011
Program Evaluation Emphasized at N.C. Leadership Forum
State officials shared insights on effective program evaluation at Governing's North Carolina leadership forum.