Skip to Main Content

Where to Find Data

Think about the source

Finding data and statistics can be tricky! One helpful step when searching is to consider who would collect and report this data, or who would have access to the information. Basically, focus on the source instead of the specific data. The most common sources for data are:

  • Government agencies
  • Private companies
  • Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
  • Researchers

Subject guides

The first place to check for data related to a particular subject area is with your subject librarian.  For a list of subject area guides (created by subject librarians), click here: http://guides.lib.uw.edu/tacoma/

Some librarians will have a tab on the subject guides titled "Data" or "Statistics".  If you're not finding what you're seeking, each subject guide has contact information for your subject librarian and please feel free to contact them directly.

CSSCR

Another good resource for data is the UW's Center for Social Science Computation and Research (CSSCR).  CSSCR is a computer resource center located on the UW Seattle campus providing facilities and support for social science departments at the University of Washington.

Explore Data

If you are not sure where to start, looking at one of these resources might help you get started.

Statistics

Census Data

Census data can be incredibly useful for demographic information. Want to dive deeper into other forms of government data? Check out the Government Publications Statistical Data Page.

Washington State Data

Health Data