Core-based statistical area

Core-based statistical area

A core-based statistical area (CBSA) is a term used by the United States Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to define and categorize geographic areas for statistical purposes. CBSAs are designed to provide a consistent framework for collecting, analyzing, and publishing data on various economic and social indicators.

Definition

A CBSA consists of one or more counties or county equivalents that have a substantial economic and social relationship with a central core area. The core area is typically a metropolitan or micropolitan statistical area, which is defined by the presence of an urbanized area with a population of at least 50,000 people. The counties or county equivalents that are included in a CBSA are known as the "metropolitan or micropolitan statistical areas" and are considered to be economically and socially integrated with the core area.

Classification

CBSAs are classified into two main types: metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) and micropolitan statistical areas (μSAs). MSAs are defined as having at least one urbanized area with a population of 50,000 or more, while μSAs have at least one urban cluster with a population between 10,000 and 49,999. Both types of CBSAs are important for understanding regional economic and social dynamics.

Importance

CBSAs play a crucial role in the collection and analysis of data related to population, employment, income, and other socio-economic factors. They provide a standardized framework for comparing and understanding different regions within the United States. By defining and categorizing areas based on their economic and social relationships, CBSAs help policymakers, researchers, and businesses make informed decisions and develop targeted strategies.

Examples

Some well-known examples of CBSAs include the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA MSA, the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA MSA, and the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI MSA. These CBSAs are among the largest and most populous in the United States, and they encompass multiple counties and urbanized areas.

Categories and Templates

To organize and navigate encyclopedia articles related to CBSAs, it is helpful to use categories and templates. Categories can be created to group articles by geographic region, such as "CBSAs in the Northeast," "CBSAs in the Midwest," and so on. Templates can be used to provide a standardized format for CBSA articles, including sections for definition, classification, importance, examples, and other relevant information.

See also

• Metropolitan statistical area
• Micropolitan statistical area
• Urbanized area
• United States Office of Management and Budget