Census-designated place

Census-designated place (often abbreviated as CDP) is a term used by the United States Census Bureau for statistical purposes. CDPs are populated areas that generally include one officially designated but currently unincorporated community, for which the Bureau provides descriptive statistics.

Definition

A census-designated place is a concentration of population identified by the United States Census Bureau for statistical purposes. CDPs are delineated for each decennial census as the statistical counterparts of incorporated places such as cities, towns, and villages. CDPs are populated areas that lack separate municipal government, but which otherwise physically resemble incorporated places.

History

The United States Census Bureau introduced the term census-designated place for the 1950 census. Prior to this, statistical areas were identified only at the level of incorporated municipalities. The Bureau identified a need to have a more precise identification of unincorporated areas that were not part of any incorporated place.

Use

The United States Census Bureau uses the term census-designated place to identify and report data for areas that might be thought of as towns or communities, but which lack their own government structures. The boundaries of a CDP may not coincide with recognized community boundaries, and the CDP's population may differ from the population of the community.

Criticism

Some have criticized the use of the term census-designated place. They argue that it is not always clear what the boundaries of a CDP are, and that this can lead to confusion. Others argue that the use of the term can give a false impression of the area's importance or size.

See also

• Incorporated place
• Unincorporated area
• United States Census Bureau