Current Population Survey (CPS)

The Current Population Survey (CPS) is a nationally representative large-sample survey of households in the United States, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau and cosponsored by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The survey's chief purpose is to provide monthly labor force data, including estimates of employment and unemployment. The survey is also a rich source of data widely used by social scientists seeking descriptive population statistics about the United States. The CPS [Page 174]consists of a core monthly survey and special topic supplements. Each month's core survey includes demographic and employment questions. Periodic supplements cover a variety of additional topics including income, poverty, and health insurance (each March), school enrollment (each October), voting and voter registration (in November of even-numbered years), tobacco use, computer and ...