Census report: A paint-by-numbers look at NH

"New Hampshire households are predominantly filled with married couple families, less than half of the state's residents were born here, and the average household takes home a median income above the national average.

And if you're single and looking to mingle, head to Strafford County.

That's among the demographic information available in the latest chunk of U.S. Census data made available this month, touted as the largest single-day release of data in the history of the Census Bureau. Packaged as part of a five-year study known as the American Community Survey, its data tables can be used to paint a picture of our state and others in detail rarely seen.

'The ACS represents the first time such a massive compilation of data estimates for small geographic areas is available,' said Census Bureau Director Robert Groves. 'These estimates deliver on our commitment to Congress to provide timely statistics on our communities and our economy, allowing for a more efficient government.'

The data is based on an annual survey mailed to about 3 million addresses between Jan. 1, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2009. By tallying several years worth of survey responses, Census officials believe, the ACS creates detailed statistical portraits on a state, county, or even city or town level. The Census Bureau intends to release a new set of five-year estimates every year.

Subsequent numbers were released Tuesday for use in determining the number of congressional seats for each of the 50 states, among other things. Numbers pertaining to state legislative district lines will not be released until either March or April 2011.

The ACS numbers for New Hampshire paint a picture of a state where most residents hail from somewhere else, stay in one place once they put down roots, and continue to reside during their golden years (especially if they are female). The following is an overview of the state's numbers in a few of the top categories in the ACS."

-- Union Leader