What is the relationship between the LAUS and the American Community Survey labor force estimates?
The LAUS program produces the official monthly estimates of the labor force for all States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and all substate areas. The LAUS estimates are consistent with the national labor force and unemployment measures from the Current Population Survey. LAUS statewide estimates are published about 2 ½ to 3 weeks following the reference month, and metropolitan area data are published about 1 ½ weeks later. The American Community Survey (ACS) produces annual information on social, housing, and economic characteristics—including labor force status—for demographic groups in areas of 65,000 population or more. Data are published about 8 months following the reference year. For more information on the ACS and how its data compare to LAUS estimates, see American Community Survey (ACS) Questions and Answers.
