Food Environment Atlas - Documentation

• Objectives of the Atlas
• Scope/Coverage of Data
• Data and County FIPS Methods
• Strengths and Limitations
• Resources
• Recommended Citation
• Food Environment Atlas Reference Guide

Objectives of the Atlas

The Food Environment Atlas includes more than 300 indicators of the food environment assembled from several sources, as documented in the Food Environment Atlas Reference Guide. Updates to this data product are planned every 2-3 years.

The Food Environment Atlas assembles statistics on three broad categories of food environment factors:

• Food Choices—Indicators of the community's access to and acquisition of healthy, affordable food, such as: access and proximity to a grocery store; number of food stores and restaurants in a county; food and nutrition assistance program participation; and availability of local foods in a county.
• Health and Well-Being—Indicators of the community's success in maintaining healthy diets, such as: food insecurity; diabetes and obesity rates; and physical activity levels.
• Community Characteristics—Indicators of community characteristics that might influence the food environment, such as: demographic composition; income and poverty; population loss; metropolitan-nonmetropolitan status; natural amenities; and recreation and fitness centers.

Scope/Coverage of Data

County/county-equivalent (the closest geographic unit to a county in States without counties, such as parishes in Louisiana or boroughs in Alaska) or State data are provided for all 50 States and the District of Columbia. The years and geographic level provided vary and depend on data availability. The most recent county- and State-level data at time of retrieval are used whenever possible.

Data and County FIPS Methods

The Food Environment Atlas includes variables that can provide insights into various aspects of the food environment. Its primary data sources come from the USDA, including the Economic Research Service (ERS), Food and Nutrition Service, Agricultural Marketing Service, and National Agricultural Statistics Service. Additional data are collected from other government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) and other organizations.

A complete list of indicators and further details on their definitions and data sources in the Food Environment Atlas are available in the Food Environment Atlas Reference Guide below. The methods used to create certain variables depend on their underlying data sources and are outlined in the Reference Guide. To ensure some information remains unidentifiable, certain variables have minimum reporting thresholds, which are also documented in the accompanying Reference Guide.

With each update to the Atlas, the previous dataset and corresponding variable information in the Reference Guide are archived and made available for download.

The Food Environment Atlas presents spatiotemporal data at the county and State levels, with coverage spanning from 2012 to 2023. The U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census releases county-boundary updates annually. Over the past 12 years, several county geography changes have occurred that need to be reflected in the Atlas. These changes occurred in the 2013, 2015, 2019, and 2023 updates. To ensure consistency in geographic reporting, county-boundary updates in the Food Environment Atlas are applied in 5-year intervals, with county boundaries corresponding to the 2010, 2015, and 2020 Census Bureau updates. The year 2023 county boundaries are included as an exception to reflect Connecticut’s transition from counties to planning regions.

For county-level data prior to 2015, indicators were joined with the 2010 Census County boundaries. In 2013, two geographic changes occurred. First, Bedford City, VA (FIPS 51515) was combined with Bedford County, VA (FIPS 51019). FIPS code is short for Federal Information Processing Standards and are five-digit numeric identifiers used to uniquely designate counties and county equivalents across the United States. The first two digits represent the State (e.g., 51 for Virginia), and the last three digits identify the specific county or independent city (e.g., 515 for Bedford City). Starting in 2015, data listing Bedford City, VA and Bedford County, VA separately were merged for count-based variables or recalculated for rate and percent change variables. Second, in Alaska, boundaries were modified for the Hoonah-Angoon Census Area (02105), Petersburg Census Area (02195), and Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area (02198), though FIPS codes remained unchanged. The Petersburg Census Area was reclassified as the Petersburg Borough. In cases where detailed geographic identifiers were unavailable, it was assumed that the data reflected the most current boundaries.

FIPS and GEOID are used interchangeably in the online mapping tool and data download and they represent the same value.

In 2015, two naming and FIPS code changes were implemented. Wade Hampton Census Area, AK (02270) became Kusilvak Census Area, AK (02158), and Shannon County, SD (46113) was renamed Oglala Lakota County, SD (46102). These revisions were reflected in the geographic data from 2015 onward.

In 2019, Valdez-Cordova Census Area, AK (02261) was split into Chugach Census Area, AK (02063) and Copper River Census Area, AK (02066). Due to limited geographic detail in some datasets, data values for these areas could not be accurately split between the two county equivalents and were listed as “No Data” for Chugach Census Area, AK and Copper River Census Area, AK. Similarly, time-series indicators (such as a percent change spanning 2019) were assigned “No Data” for both geographies. These changes were applied with the 2020 Census County boundary update.

In 2022, Connecticut transitioned from eight counties to nine planning regions. To avoid complete data loss, county and planning-region identifiers provided in source data from 2022 onward were retained. The off year 2023 Census County geographies also reflected Connecticut's planning region structure.

Strengths and Limitations

The Food Environment Atlas is a multifaceted tool that provides a visual representation of food related data, making it easier to identify patterns across States and counties. It integrates a wide range of datasets that allow users to examine food environments and healthy outcomes. The Atlas may be used by policymakers, researchers, and community organizers to identify a county’s and county-equivalent’s success in accessing healthy food.

Some indicators are extracted from other public data sources with no further quality control checks from USDA, ERS. Not all counties or States have complete data for all indicators. In those areas, missing values are denoted by "N/A” in the current version’s data files. Counties that didn’t exist in a particular year are referenced with -8888. Data that were not available, not applicable, or suppressed for specific areas in previous Food Environment Atlas data releases are denoted with a blank cell or –9999 as indicated in the individual files.

Resources

The Food Environment Atlas incorporates information from the Food Access Research Atlas, Household Food Security in the United States, SNAP Policy Database, Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America, and Poverty Area Measures.

Recommended Citation

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service. Food Environment Atlas.

Food Environment Atlas Reference Guide

Definitions and Data Sources

This section provides definitions and data sources for the Food Environment Atlas indicators, grouped under the following categories:

• Access and Proximity to Foodstore
• Store Availability
• Restaurant Availability
• Food Assistance
• State Food Insecurity
• Food Taxes
• Local Foods
• Health and Physical Activity
• Socioeconomic Characteristics

Category: Access and Proximity to Foodstore

Data are from the following 2022 USDA, Economic Research Service report:

Low-Income and Low-Foodstore-Access Census Tracts, 2015–19

Indicator: Population, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of people in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore if in an urban area or more than 10 miles from a foodstore if in a rural area.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status is designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Population, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of people in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore if in an urban area or more than 10 miles from a foodstore if in a rural area. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status is designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition.

Available years: 2015–19

Indicator: Population, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore if in an urban area, or more than 10 miles from a foodstore if in a rural area.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status is designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of individuals living more than 1 mile from a foodstore in urban areas and more than 10 miles from a foodstore in rural areas was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of total population in the county that resided more than 1 or 10 miles from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Low income and low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of people in a county with low income and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore if in an urban area, or more than 10 miles from a foodstore if in a rural area.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data were reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing, while data on income in 2015 are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on income in 2019 are drawn from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status is designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition. Low-income is defined as annual family income of less than or equal to 200 percent of the Federal poverty threshold, based on family size.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Low income and low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of people in a county with low income and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore if in an urban area, or more than 10 miles from a foodstore if in a rural area. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing, while data on income in 2015 are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on income in 2019 are drawn from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status is designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition. Low-income is defined as annual family income of less than or equal to 200 percent of the Federal poverty threshold, based on family size.

Available years: 2015–19

Indicator: Low income and low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county with low income and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore if in an urban area, or more than 10 miles from a foodstore if in a rural area.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing, while data on income in 2015 are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on income in 2019 are drawn from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status is designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition. Low-income is defined as annual family income of less than or equal to 200 percent of the Federal poverty threshold based on family size. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of low-income individuals living more than 1 mile from a foodstore in urban areas and more than 10 miles from a foodstore in rural areas was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of total population in the county that resided more than 1 or 10 miles from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Households, no car and low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of housing units in a county that are without a car and more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Data on 2015 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on 2019 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These data were first allocated to blocks and then aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Vehicle access was measured based on an American Community Survey question that asks respondents if the household has access to a car, truck or van, of 1-ton capacity or less.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Households, no car and low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of housing units in a county that are without a car and more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Data on 2015 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on 2019 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These data were first allocated to blocks and then aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Vehicle access was measured based on an American Community Survey question that asks respondents if the household has access to a car, truck or van, of 1-ton capacity or less.

Available years: 2015–19

Indicator: Households, no car and low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of housing units in a county that are without a car and more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Data on 2015 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on 2019 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These data were first allocated to blocks and then aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Vehicle access was measured based on an American Community Survey question that asks respondents if the household has access to a car, truck or van, of 1-ton capacity or less. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of housing units more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of housing units in the county to obtain the percentage of housing units in the county that were more than 1 mile from a foodstore and without a vehicle.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: SNAP households, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of housing units in a county that are receiving SNAP benefits and more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Data on 2015 households receiving SNAP benefits are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on 2019 households receiving SNAP benefits are drawn at the block group-level from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These data were first allocated to blocks and then aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: SNAP households, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of housing units in a county that are receiving SNAP benefits and more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Data on 2015 households receiving SNAP benefits are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on 2019 households receiving SNAP benefits are drawn at the block group-level from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These data were first allocated to blocks and then aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015-19

Indicator: SNAP households, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of housing units in a county that are receiving SNAP benefits and live more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Data on 2015 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2010–14 American Community Survey, and data on 2019 households are drawn at the block group-level from the 2014–18 American Community Survey. These population data were first allocated to blocks and then aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of housing units receiving SNAP benefits more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of housing units in the county to obtain the percent of housing units receiving SNAP benefits in the county that were more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Children, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of children (age < 18) in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data, including age, are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Children age 17 and younger are counted as individuals.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Children, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of children (age <18) in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data, including age, were reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Children age 17 and younger are counted as individuals.

Available years: 2015–19

Indicator: Children, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of children (age < 18) in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data, including age, were reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Children are counted as individuals who are age 17 or younger. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of children in housing units living more than 1 mile from a foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of children living in the county to obtain the percentage of total children in the county that were in households more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Seniors, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of seniors (age > 64) in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data, including age, are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Seniors age 65 or older are counted as individuals.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Seniors, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of seniors (age > 64) in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data, including age, are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Seniors 65 or older are counted as individuals.

Available years: 2015–19

Indicator: Seniors, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of seniors (age > 64) in a county who are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data, including age, are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Seniors are counted as individuals age 65 or older. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of seniors in housing units more than 1 mile from the nearest supermarket or large grocery was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of seniors in the county to obtain the percentage of seniors in the county that were in households more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: White, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are White and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: White, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are White and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: White, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are White and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of White individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of White individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of White individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Black or African American, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Black or African American and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Black or African American, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Black or African American and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015−19

Indicator: Black or African American, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are Black or African American and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of Black or African American individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of Black individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of Black individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Asian, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Asian and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Asian, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Asian and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015−19

Indicator: Asian, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are Asian and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of Asian individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of Asian individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of Asian individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: American Indian or Alaska Native, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are American Indian or Alaska Native and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: American Indian or Alaska Native, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are American Indian or Alaska Native and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015−19

Indicator: American Indian or Alaska Native, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are American Indian or Alaska Native and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of American Indian or Alaska Native individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of American Indian or Alaska Native individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of American Indian or Alaska Native individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Rural or urban status was designated by the Census Bureau’s Urban Area definition.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015−19

Indicator: Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of Hawaiian or Pacific Islander individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of Hawaiian or Pacific Islander individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Multiracial, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Multiracial and are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Multiracial, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Multiracial and are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015−19

Indicator: Multiracial, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are Multiracial and are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of Multiracial individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of Multiracial individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of Multiracial individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a supermarket.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Hispanic or Latino, low access to store

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Hispanic or Latino and are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Hispanic or Latino, low access to store (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Number of individuals in a county who are Hispanic or Latino and are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore. Percent change indicators are calculated as: [((Year 2 - Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore.

Available years: 2015−19

Indicator: Hispanic or Latino, low access to store (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percentage of people in a county who are Hispanic or Latino and are living more than 1 mile from a foodstore.

Data source(s): In the referenced report, a directory of supermarkets and large grocery stores that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits was merged with a NielsenIQ TDLinx directory of stores within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) for the years 2015 and 2019. Stores met the definition of a foodstore if they reported at least $2 million in annual sales and contained all the major food departments found in a traditional supermarket—including fresh meat and poultry, dairy, dry and packaged foods, and frozen foods. The combined list of supermarkets and large grocery stores was converted into a GIS-usable format by geocoding their street addresses into store locations. Population data are reported at the block level from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing. These population data were aerially allocated down to one-half-kilometer-square grids across the United States. For each one-half-kilometer-square grid cell, the distance was calculated from its geographic center to the center of the grid cell with the nearest foodstore. Once distance to the nearest foodstore was calculated for each grid cell, the number of Hispanic individuals living more than 1 mile from the nearest foodstore was aggregated to the county level. That number was divided by the total number of Hispanic individuals in the county to obtain the percentage of Hispanic individuals in the county that resided more than 1 mile from a supermarket.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Category: Store Availability

Indicator: Grocery stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of supermarkets and grocery stores located in the county.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Grocery stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 445110) include establishments that are generally known as supermarkets and smaller grocery stores, primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food—such as canned and frozen foods; fresh fruits and vegetables; and fresh and prepared meats, fish, and poultry. Included in this industry are delicatessen-type establishments that are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food. Convenience stores, with or without gasoline sales, are excluded. Large general merchandise stores that also retail food, such as supercenters and warehouse club stores, are excluded.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Grocery stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of supermarkets and grocery stores located in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Grocery stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 445110) include establishments that are generally known as supermarkets and smaller grocery stores, primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food—such as canned and frozen foods; fresh fruits and vegetables; and fresh and prepared meats, fish, and poultry. Included in this industry are delicatessen-type establishments that are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food. Convenience stores, with or without gasoline sales, are excluded. Large general merchandise stores that also retail food, such as supercenters and warehouse club stores, are excluded.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Grocery stores/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of supermarkets and grocery stores located in the county, per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Grocery stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 445110) include establishments that are generally known as supermarkets and smaller grocery stores, primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food—such as canned and frozen foods; fresh fruits and vegetables; and fresh and prepared meats, fish, and poultry. Included in this industry are delicatessen-type establishments that are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food. Convenience stores, with or without gasoline sales, are excluded. Large general merchandise stores that also retail food, such as supercenters and warehouse club stores, are excluded.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Grocery stores/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of supermarkets and grocery stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Grocery stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 445110) include establishments that are generally known as supermarkets and smaller grocery stores, primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food—such as canned and frozen foods; fresh fruits and vegetables; and fresh and prepared meats, fish, and poultry. Included in this industry are delicatessen-type establishments primarily engaged in retailing a general line of food. Convenience stores, with or without gasoline sales, are excluded. Large general merchandise stores that also retail food, such as supercenters and warehouse club stores, are excluded.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Supercenters and club stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of supercenters and warehouse club stores located in the county.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Warehouse clubs and supercenters (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 452311) are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of groceries in combination with general lines of new merchandise—such as apparel, furniture, and appliances. They exclude grocery stores and supermarkets, which are listed separately.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Supercenters and club stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of supercenters and warehouse club stores located in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Warehouse clubs and supercenters (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 452311) are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of groceries, in combination with general lines of new merchandise—such as apparel, furniture, and appliances. They exclude grocery stores and supermarkets, which are listed separately.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Supercenters and club stores/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of supercenters and warehouse club stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Warehouse clubs and supercenters (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 452311) are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of groceries, in combination with general lines of new merchandise—such as apparel, furniture, and appliances. They exclude grocery stores and supermarkets, which are listed separately.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Supercenters and club stores/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of supercenters and warehouse club stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Warehouse clubs and supercenters (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 452311) are primarily engaged in retailing a general line of groceries, in combination with general lines of new merchandise—such as apparel, furniture, and appliances. They exclude grocery stores and supermarkets, which are listed separately.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Convenience stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of convenience stores located in the county.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Establishments known as convenience stores or food marts (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes 445120 and 447110) are primarily engaged in retailing a limited line of goods that generally include milk, bread, soda, and snacks.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Convenience stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of convenience stores located in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Establishments known as convenience stores or food marts (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes 445120 and 447110) are primarily engaged in retailing a limited line of goods that generally include milk, bread, soda, and snacks.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Convenience stores/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of convenience stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Establishments known as convenience stores or food marts (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes 445120 and 447110) are primarily engaged in retailing a limited line of goods that generally include milk, bread, soda, and snacks.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Convenience stores/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of convenience stores in the county per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Establishments known as convenience stores or food marts (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes 445120 and 447110) are primarily engaged in retailing a limited line of goods that generally include milk, bread, soda, and snacks.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Specialized food stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of specialized food stores in the county.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Specialized food stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 4452) include establishments primarily engaged in retailing specialized lines of food—such as retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, dairy stores, and produce markets.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Specialized food stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of specialized food stores located in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Specialized food stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 4452) include establishments primarily engaged in retailing specialized lines of food—such as retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, dairy stores, and produce markets.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Specialized food stores/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of convenience stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Specialized food stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 4452) include establishments primarily engaged in retailing specialized lines of food—such as retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, dairy stores, and produce markets.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Specialized food stores/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of specialized food stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Specialized food stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 4452) include establishments primarily engaged in retailing specialized lines of food—such as retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, dairy stores, and produce markets.

Available years: 2016−20

Indicator: Dollar stores and other general merchandise stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of general merchandise stores located in the county.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. General merchandise stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 452319) include establishments primarily engaged in retailing a general line of new merchandise—such as apparel, automotive parts, dry goods, hardware, housewares or home furnishings, and other lines in limited amounts, with none of the lines predominating.

Available years: 2020

Indicator: Dollar stores and other general merchandise stores /1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of general merchandise stores located in the county per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Specialized food stores (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 452319) include establishments primarily engaged in retailing a general line of new merchandise—such as apparel, automotive parts, dry goods, hardware, housewares or home furnishings, and other lines in limited amounts, with none of the lines predominating.

Available years: 2020

Indicator: SNAP-authorized stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The average monthly number of stores in the county authorized to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Benefits Redemption Division. Stores authorized for SNAP include: supermarkets; large, medium and small grocery stores and convenience stores; superstores and supercenters; warehouse club stores; and specialized food stores (retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, and produce markets).

Special note: ERS did not include meal service providers that serve eligible persons among SNAP-authorized stores during the calculation of this variable.

Available years: 2017 and 2023

Indicator: SNAP-authorized stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the average monthly number of stores in the county authorized to accept SNAP benefits. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Benefits Redemption Division. Stores authorized for SNAP include: supermarkets; large, medium and small grocery stores and convenience stores; superstores and supercenters; warehouse club stores; and specialized food stores (retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, and produce markets).

Special note: ERS did not include meal service providers that serve eligible persons among SNAP-authorized stores during calculation of this variable.

Available years: 2017–23

Indicator: SNAP-authorized stores/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The average monthly number of stores in the county authorized to accept SNAP per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Benefits Redemption Division. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Stores authorized for SNAP include: supermarkets; large, medium and small grocery stores and convenience stores; superstores and supercenters; warehouse club stores; and specialized foodstores (retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, and produce markets).

Special note: ERS did not include meal service providers that serve eligible persons among SNAP-authorized stores during calculation of this variable.

Available years: 2017 and 2023

Indicator: SNAP-authorized stores/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the average monthly number of stores in the county authorized to accept SNAP per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Benefits Redemption Division. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Stores authorized for SNAP include: supermarkets; large, medium and small grocery stores and convenience stores; superstores and supercenters; warehouse club stores; and specialized foodstores (retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, and produce markets).

Special note: ERS did not include meal service providers that serve eligible persons among SNAP-authorized stores during calculation of this variable.

Available years: 2017–23

Indicator: WIC-authorized stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of stores in a county authorized to accept Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. Does not include direct distribution centers serving participants in Mississippi's WIC program.

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch.

Available years: 2016 and 2022

Indicator: WIC-authorized stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of stores in a county authorized to accept WIC benefits. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch.

Available years: 2016–22

Indicator: WIC-authorized stores/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of stores in a county that are authorized to accept WIC benefits per 1,000 population.

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2016 and 2022

Indicator: WIC-authorized stores/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of WIC stores in a county per 1,000 population. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2016–22

Category: Restaurant Availability

Indicator: Fast-food restaurants

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of limited-service restaurants in the county.

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Limited-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 722513) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services (except snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars) where patrons generally order or select items and pay before eating. Food and drink may be consumed on premises, taken out, or delivered to the customer's location. Some establishments in this industry may provide these food services in combination with alcoholic beverage sales.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Fast-food restaurants (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of limited-service restaurants in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Limited-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 722513) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services (except snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars) where patrons generally order or select items and pay before eating. Food and drink may be consumed on premises, taken out, or delivered to the customer's location. Some establishments in this industry may provide these food services in combination with alcoholic beverage sales.

Available years: 2016–20

Indicator: Fast-food restaurants/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of limited-service restaurants in the county per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Limited-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 722513) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services (except snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars) where patrons generally order or select items and pay before eating. Food and drink may be consumed on premises, taken out, or delivered to the customer's location. Some establishments in this industry may provide these food services in combination with alcoholic beverage sales.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Fast-food restaurants/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of limited-service restaurants in the county per 1,000 residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Limited-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 722513) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services (except snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars) where patrons generally order or select items and pay before eating. Food and drink may be consumed on premises, taken out, or delivered to the customer's location. Some establishments in this industry may provide these food services in combination with alcoholic beverage sales.

Available years: 2016–20

Indicator: Full-service restaurants

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of full-service restaurants in the county.

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Full-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 722511) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services to patrons who order and are served while seated (i.e., waiter/waitress service) and pay after eating. These establishments may provide this type of food service to patrons in combination with selling alcoholic beverages, providing takeout services, or presenting live nontheatrical entertainment.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Full-service restaurants (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of full-service restaurants in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Full-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 722511) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services to patrons who order and are served while seated (i.e., waiter/waitress service) and pay after eating. These establishments may provide this type of food service to patrons in combination with selling alcoholic beverages, providing takeout services, or presenting live nontheatrical entertainment.

Available years: 2016–20

Indicator: Full-service restaurants/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of full-service restaurants in the county per 1,000 residents.

Data source(s): Restaurant data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Full-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 722511) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services to patrons who order and are served while seated (i.e., waiter/waitress service) and pay after eating. These establishments may provide this type of food service to patrons in combination with selling alcoholic beverages, providing takeout services, or presenting live nontheatrical entertainment.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Full-service restaurants/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of full-service restaurants in the county per 1,000 residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. Full-service restaurants (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 722511) include establishments primarily engaged in providing food services to patrons who order and are served while seated (i.e., waiter/waitress service) and pay after eating. These establishments may provide this type of food service to patrons in combination with selling alcoholic beverages, providing takeout services, or presenting live nontheatrical entertainment.

Available years: 2016–20

Category: Food Assistance

Indicator: SNAP redemptions/SNAP-authorized stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total dollar amount of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) redemptions per SNAP-authorized store in a county averaged over 12 months in a calendar year.

Data source(s): Store and redemption data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Benefits Redemption Division. Stores authorized for SNAP include: supermarkets; large, medium and small grocery stores and convenience stores; superstores and supercenters; warehouse club stores; and specialized food stores (retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, and produce markets).

Special note: Indicators based on redemption data are not available to the public for counties with three or fewer SNAP-authorized stores. ERS did not include meal service providers that serve eligible persons among SNAP-authorized stores during calculation of this variable.

Available years: 2017 and 2023

Indicator: SNAP redemptions/SNAP-authorized stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total dollar amount of SNAP redemptions per SNAP-authorized store in a county averaged over 12 months in a calendar year. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store and redemption data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Benefits Redemption Division. Stores authorized for SNAP include: supermarkets; large, medium and small grocery stores and convenience stores; superstores and supercenters; warehouse club stores; and specialized food stores (retail bakeries, meat and seafood markets, and produce markets).

Special note: Indicators based on redemption data are not available to the public for counties with three or fewer SNAP-authorized stores. ERS did not include meal service providers that serve eligible persons among SNAP-authorized stores during calculation of this variable.

Available years: 2017–23

Indicator: SNAP participants (percent population)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage of the State population receiving SNAP benefits in an average month.

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2022 Population Estimates.

Available years: 2017 and 2022

Indicator: SNAP participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the average monthly percentage of the population receiving SNAP benefits. Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2022 Population Estimates.

Available years: 2017–22

Indicator: SNAP benefits per capita

Geographic level: County

Definition: The average monthly dollar amount of SNAP benefits in a county divided by the county population.

Data source(s): SNAP benefits are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts Directorate. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2017 and 2022

Indicator: SNAP benefits per capita (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the per capita average monthly dollar amount of SNAP benefits in a county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): SNAP benefits are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Accounts Directorate. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2017–22

Indicator: SNAP participants (percent eligible population)

Geographic level: State

Definition: An estimate of the number of people in the State who participated in SNAP divided by the number of people eligible to participate in the State.

Data source(s): Cunnyngham, K. E. Reaching those in need: Estimates of State Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation rates in 2019, prepared by Mathematica Policy Research, Incorporated (MPR) for USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, February 2023, page 5.

Available years: 2016 and 2019

Indicator: SNAP online application

Geographic level: State

Definition: The State allows households to submit a SNAP application online during at least 1 month in the calendar year.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS), SNAP Policy Database.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: SNAP Combined Application Project

Geographic level: State

Definition: The State operates a Combined Application Project for recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), so that SSI recipients are able to use a streamlined SNAP application process during at least 1 month in the calendar year.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS), SNAP Policy Database.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: SNAP broad-based categorical eligibility

Geographic level: State

Definition: The State used broad-based categorical eligibility to increase or eliminate the asset test and/or to increase the gross income limit for virtually all SNAP applicants, at least 1 month during the calendar year.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS), SNAP Policy Database.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: SNAP simplified reporting

Geographic level: State

Definition: For households with earnings, the State used the simplified reporting option that reduces requirements for reporting changes in household circumstances during at least 1 month of the calendar year.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS), SNAP Policy Database.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: National School Lunch Program participants (percent children)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The average daily percentage of the school aged population, ages 5–17, participating in the National School Lunch Program.

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019 and September 8, 2023. Data for the school aged population, ages 5–17, are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 9-month averages; summer months (June-August) are excluded. Participation is based on average daily meals divided by an attendance factor of 0.927.

Available years: 2017 and 2021

Indicator: National School Lunch Program participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the average daily percentage of the school aged population, ages 5–17, participating in the National School Lunch Program (excludes June, July, and August). Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's  Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019 and September 8, 2023. Data for the school aged population, ages 5–17, are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Available years: 2017–21

Indicator: Students eligible for free lunch (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of total students eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program under the Free Lunch Program.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Common Core of Data.

Available year: 2015

Indicator: Students eligible for reduced-price lunch (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of total students eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program under the Reduced-price Lunch Program.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Common Core of Data.

Available year: 2015

Indicator: School Breakfast Program participants (percent children)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The average daily percentage of the school aged population, ages 5–17, participating in the School Breakfast Program.

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019 and September 8, 2023. Data for the school aged population, ages 5–17, are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 9-month averages; summer months (June–August) are excluded. Participation is based on average daily meals divided by an attendance factor of 0.927.

Available years: 2017 and 2021

Indicator: School Breakfast Program participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the average daily percentage of the school aged population, ages 5–17, participating in the School Breakfast Program (excludes June, July, and August). Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019, and September 8, 2023. Data for the school aged population, ages 5–17, are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Available years: 2017–21

Indicator: Summer Food Service Program participants (percent children)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The average daily percentage of the school aged population, ages 5–17, participating in the Summer Food Service Program (measured in July).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019, and September 8, 2023. Data for the school aged population, ages 5–17, are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Available years: 2017 and 2021

Indicator: Summer Food Service Program participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the average daily percentage of the school aged population, ages 5-17, participating in the Summer Food Service Program (measured in July). Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019, and September 8, 2023. Data for the school aged population, ages 5–17, are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Average daily attendance is reported for July only, the peak month of national program activity.

Available years: 2017–21

Indicator: WIC redemptions per capita

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total dollar amount of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits redeemed through WIC-authorized stores in a county divided by the total county population. Redemptions are censored in the Atlas map when data are not available or when there are fewer than 4 WIC-authorized stores in a county.

Data source(s): Redemption data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2016 and 2022

Indicator: WIC redemptions per capita (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total dollar amount of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) redemptions in a county per capita. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Redemption data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2016–22

Indicator: WIC redemptions/WIC-authorized stores

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total dollar amount of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits redeemed through WIC-authorized stores in a county in a fiscal year divided by the number of WIC-authorized stores.

Data source(s): Store and redemption data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch. Indicators are censored data in the Atlas map when data are not available or when there are fewer than four WIC-authorized stores in a county.

Available years: 2016 and 2022

Indicator: WIC redemptions/WIC-authorized stores (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the average Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) redemption amount per WIC-authorized store in a fiscal year. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Store and redemption data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Supplemental Food Programs Division, Program Analysis and Monitoring Branch. Indicators are censored in the Atlas map when data are not available or when there are fewer than four WIC-authorized stores in a county.

Available years: 2016–22

Indicator: WIC participants (percent population)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The monthly average percentage of the population who received at least one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food instrument or food during the report month or were breastfed by a participating mother.

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published June 7, 2019, and September 8, 2023. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 12-month averages.

Available years: 2017 and 2021

Indicator: WIC participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the monthly average percentage of the population who received at least one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food instrument or food during the report month or were breastfed by a participating mother. Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 - Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published June 7, 2019, and September 8, 2023. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 12-month averages.

Available years: 2017–21

Indicator: WIC infant and children participants (percent infant & children)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The monthly average percentage of the population that are infants and children, ages 1–4, who received at least one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food instrument or food during the report month or were breastfed by a participating mother.

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), State-Level WIC Participants, 2016 and 2021. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2016 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 12-month averages.

Available years: 2016 and 2021

Indicator: WIC infant and children participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the monthly average percentage of the population that are infants and children, ages 1–4, who received at least one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food instrument or food during the report month or were breastfed by a participating mother. Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), State-Level WIC Participants, 2016 and 2021. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2016 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 12-month averages.

Available years: 2016–21

Indicator: WIC women participants (percent women)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The monthly average percentage of the women of child-bearing age, 15–44, who received at least one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food instrument or food during the report month or were breastfed by a participating mother.

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), State-Level WIC Participants, 2016 and 2021. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2016 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 12-month averages.

Available years: 2016 and 2021

Indicator: WIC women participants (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the monthly average percentage of the women of child-bearing age, 15–44, who received at least one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food instrument or food during the report month or were breastfed by a participating mother. Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), State-Level WIC Participants, 2016 and 2021. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2016 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Participation data are 12-month averages.

Available years: 2016–21

Indicator: Child and Adult Care (percent population)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The average daily attendance for all childcare centers participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (including childcare centers, family daycare homes, and adult-care centers) divided by the State population (displayed as a percentage).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019, and November 9, 2023. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Average daily attendance data are reported on a quarterly basis only (March, June, September, and December). Annual averages are divided by four.

Available years: 2017 and 2021

Indicator: Child and Adult Care (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the percentage of the population attending childcare centers participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (including childcare centers, family daycare homes, and adult-care centers). Percentage point change is calculated as (Year 2 – Year 1).

Data source(s): Tabulations by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), published May 3, 2019, and November 9, 2023. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2017 and 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.

Available years: 2017–21

Indicator: FDPIR Sites

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of FDPIR sites per county in 2012 and 2015. The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) is a Federal nutrition assistance program for low-income households residing on Indian reservations and low-income Native American households living in designated service areas near reservations or in Oklahoma. FDPIR sites are central locations within Tribal lands where the monthly benefit package may be distributed.

Data source(s): Redemption site data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Food Distribution Division, Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs.

Available years: 2012 and 2015

Indicator: FDPIR Sites (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of FDPIR sites per county in 2012 and 2015. The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) is a Federal nutrition assistance program for low-income households residing on Indian reservations and low-income Native American households living in designated service areas near reservations or in Oklahoma. FDPIR sites are central locations within Tribal lands where the monthly benefit package may be distributed.

Data source(s): Redemption site data are from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service, Food Distribution Division, Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs.

Available years: 2012–15

Indicator: Food Banks

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of food banks per county in 2018 and 2021.

Data source(s): Food bank data are from Feeding America's nationwide network of food banks.

Available years: 2018 and 2021

Indicator: Food Banks (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of food banks per county in 2018 and 2021. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Food bank data are from Feeding America's nationwide network of food banks.

Available years: 2018-2021

Category: State Food Insecurity

Data are from the report:

Household Food Security in the United States in 2023

Indicator: Household food insecurity (percent, 3-year average)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The prevalence of household-level food insecurity by State. Food-insecure households were unable, at times during the year, to provide adequate food for one or more household members because the household lacked money and other resources for food.

Data source(s): ERS estimates using 3 years of data from the Current Population Survey Food Security Supplement, as reported in table 5 in the referenced report, Household Food Security in the United States in 2023 (September 2024). The food security survey asks one adult respondent in each household a series of questions about experiences and behaviors that indicate food insecurity. The food security status of the household was assessed based on the number of food-insecure conditions reported (such as being unable to afford balanced meals, cutting the size of meals because of too little money for food, or being hungry because of too little money for food). Note: margins of error are substantial for some States; comparisons between States should take into consideration margins of error published in the source report.

Available years: 2018–20 and 2021–23 (aggregate data)

Indicator: Household food insecurity (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the prevalence of household-level food insecurity by State. Food-insecure households were unable, at times during the year, to provide adequate food for one or more household members because the household lacked money and other resources for food.

Data source(s): ERS estimates using 6 years of data from the Current Population Survey Food Security Supplement, as reported in table 5 in the referenced report, Household Food Security in the United States in 2023 (September 2024). The food security survey asks one adult respondent in each household a series of questions about experiences and behaviors that indicate food insecurity. The food security status of the household was assessed based on the number of food-insecure conditions reported (such as being unable to afford balanced meals, cutting the size of meals because of too little money for food, or being hungry because of too little money for food). Note: margins of error are substantial for some States; comparisons between States should take into consideration margins of error published in the source report.

Available years: 2018–20/2021–23 (aggregate data)

Indicator: Household very low food security (percent, 3-year average)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The prevalence of household-level very low food security by State. In households with very low food security, food intake of one or more members was reduced and eating patterns were disrupted at times during the year because of insufficient money and other resources for food.

Data source(s): ERS estimates using 3 years of data from the Current Population Survey Food Security Supplement, as reported in table 5 in the referenced report, Household Food Security in the United States in 20223 (September 2024). The food security survey asks one adult respondent in each household a series of questions about experiences and behaviors that indicate food insecurity. The food security status of the household was assessed based on the number of food-insecure conditions reported (such as being unable to afford balanced meals, cutting the size of meals because of too little money for food, or being hungry because of too little money for food). Note: margins of error are substantial for some States; comparisons between States should take into consideration margins of error published in the source report.

Available years: 2018–20 and 2021–23 (aggregate data)

Indicator: Household very low food security (percentage point change)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage point change in the prevalence of household-level very low food security by State. In households with very low food security, food intake of one or more members was reduced and eating patterns were disrupted at times during the year because of insufficient money and other resources for food.

Data source(s): ERS estimates using 6 years of data from the Current Population Survey Food Security Supplement, as reported in table 5 in the referenced report, Household Food Security in the United States in 2023 (September 2024). The food security survey asks one adult respondent in each household a series of questions about experiences and behaviors that indicate food insecurity. The food security status of the household was assessed based on the number of food-insecure conditions reported (such as being unable to afford balanced meals, cutting the size of meals because of too little money for food, or being hungry because of too little money for food). Note: margins of error are substantial for some States; comparisons between States should take into consideration margins of error published in the source report.

Available years: 2018–20/2021–23 (aggregate data)

Category: Food Taxes

Indicator: Soda sales tax, retail stores

Geographic level: State

Definition: Additional tax on soda purchased at retail stores. Additional rates are percentage points added to general food sales tax rates.

Data source(s): 2014 estimates were compiled by The MayaTech Corporation for the University of Illinois at Chicago, Bridging the Gap Program, 2014.

Available year: 2014

Indicator: Soda sales tax, vending

Geographic level: State

Definition: Additional tax on soda drinks purchased at vending machines. Additional rates are percentage points added to general food sales tax rates.

Data source(s): 2014 estimates were compiled by The MayaTech Corporation for the University of Illinois at Chicago, Bridging the Gap Program, 2014.

Available year: 2014

Indicator: Chip and pretzel sales tax, retail stores

Geographic level: State

Definition: Additional tax on chips and pretzels purchased at retail stores. Additional rates are percentage points added to general food sales tax rates.

Data source(s): 2014 estimates were compiled by The MayaTech Corporation for the University of Illinois at Chicago, Bridging the Gap Program, 2014.

Available year: 2014

Indicator: Chip and pretzel sales tax, vending

Geographic level: State

Definition: Additional tax on chips and pretzels purchased at vending machines. Additional rates are percentage points added to general food sales tax rates.

Data source(s): 2014 estimates were compiled by The MayaTech Corporation for the University of Illinois at Chicago, Bridging the Gap Program, 2014.

Available year: 2014

Indicator: General food sales tax, retail stores

Geographic level: State

Definition: General food sales tax, where the definition of "food" varies by State (documentation is available at Bridging the Gap Program, University of Illinois at Chicago).

Data source(s): 2014 estimates were compiled by The MayaTech Corporation for the University of Illinois at Chicago, Bridging the Gap Program, 2014.

Available year: 2014

Category: Local Foods

Indicator: Farms with direct sales

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms in the county that sell at least some products directly to final consumers. This includes sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc. It does not include sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Farms with direct sales (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farms in the county that sell at least some products directly to final consumers. This includes sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc. It does not include sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Farms with direct sales (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of farms in the county that sell at least some products directly to final consumers. This includes sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc. It does not include sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Direct farm sales (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the total value of farm sales in the county sold directly to final consumers in 2007 and 2012. This includes sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc. It does not include sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Direct farm sales

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total value of farm sales direct to consumers in thousands of dollars. This includes sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc. It does not include sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Direct farm sales (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total value of farm sales direct to consumers in thousands of dollars. This includes sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc. It does not include sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Direct farm sales per capita

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total value of farm sales direct to consumers (including sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc., but not sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams) divided by the number of residents of the county.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Direct farm sales per capita (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total value of farm sales direct to consumers (including sales from roadside stands, farmers markets, pick-your-own, door-to-door, etc., but not sales of craft items or processed products—such as jellies, sausages, and hams) divided by the number of residents of the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Farmers' markets

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers' markets in the county.

Data source(s): The numbers for farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available years: 2013 and 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farmers' markets in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Data for 2013 and 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available years: 2013–18

Indicator: Farmers' markets/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers' markets in the county per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): Data for 2013 and 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available years: 2013 and 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farmers’ markets per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): Data for 2013 and 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available years: 2013–18

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting SNAP

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers' markets in the county that accept SNAP benefits.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: The Food and Nutrition Service maintains a list of farmers' markets currently authorized to accept SNAP.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting SNAP (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that accept SNAP benefits.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: The Food and Nutrition Service maintains a list of farmers' markets currently authorized to accept SNAP. AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting WIC vouchers

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers’ markets in the county that accept WIC vouchers.

Data source(s): Data for 2022 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. WIC vouchers are for a specific amount of food (i.e., one loaf of whole wheat bread). A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting WIC vouchers (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers’ markets in the county that accept WIC vouchers.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. WIC vouchers are for a specific amount of food (i.e., one loaf of whole wheat bread). A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting WIC Cash

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers' markets in the county that accept WIC Cash Value vouchers.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. WIC Cash Value vouchers are for a specific dollar amount for fruits and vegetables. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting WIC Cash (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that accept WIC Cash Value vouchers.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. WIC Cash Value vouchers are for a specific dollar amount for fruits and vegetables. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting SFMNP

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers' markets in the county that accept Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) benefits.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting SFMNP (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that accept Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) benefits.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting credit cards

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers’ markets in the county that accept credit cards.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report accepting credit cards (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that accept credit cards.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that specialize in organic production methods and practices

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers’ markets in the county that specialize in organic production methods and practices. Organic means USDA Certified.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that specialize in organic production methods and practices (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that specialize in organic production methods and practices. Organic means USDA Certified.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling fruit and vegetables

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers’ markets in the county that sell fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, herbs, nuts, dry beans, grains, mushrooms, and/or wild harvested forest products.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling fruit and vegetables (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that sell fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, herbs, nuts, dry beans, grains, mushrooms, and/or wild harvested forest products.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling animal products

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers’ markets in the county that sell meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and/or cheese.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling animal products (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that sell meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and/or cheese.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling baked and prepared goods

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers’ markets in the county that sell baked goods and/or prepared foods.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling baked and prepared goods (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that sell baked goods and/or prepared foods.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling other food products

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farmers' markets in the county that sell other products, including honey, jams, maple syrup, wine, coffee, juices, and/or tofu.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers. 

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Farmers' markets that report selling other food products (percent)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of all farmers' markets in the county that sell other products, including honey, jams, maple syrup, wine, coffee, juices, and/or tofu.

Data source(s): Data for 2018 farmers' markets were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division. A farmers’ market is a retail outlet in which two or more vendors sell agricultural products directly to customers through a common marketing channel. At least 51 percent of retail sales are direct to consumers.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from farmers market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National Farmers Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State farmers market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2018

Indicator: Vegetable farms

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms in the county with vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for sale.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Vegetable farms (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farms in the county with vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for sale. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for sale in the county.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for sale in the county. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for sale per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for sale per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Farms with vegetables harvested for fresh market

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of farms with vegetables, potatoes, and melons harvested for fresh-market sale (as opposed to harvested for processing).

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Farms with vegetables harvested for fresh market (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of farms with vegetables, potatoes, and melons harvested for fresh-market sale (as opposed to harvested for processing). Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested for fresh market

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for fresh-market sale (as opposed to harvested for processing).

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested for fresh market (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for fresh-market sale (as opposed to harvested for processing). Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested for fresh market/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for fresh-market sale (as opposed to harvested for processing) per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Vegetable acres harvested for fresh market/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of vegetables, potatoes, or melons harvested for fresh-market sale (as opposed to harvested for processing) per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Orchard farms

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms with land producing fruit trees, citrus or other groves, vineyards or nut trees—including trees and groves of nonbearing age.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Orchard farms (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farms with land producing fruit trees, citrus or other groves, vineyards or nut trees—including trees and groves of nonbearing age. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Orchard acres

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of acres of land producing fruit trees, citrus or other groves, vineyards and nut trees—including trees and groves of nonbearing age.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Orchard acres (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of land producing fruit trees, citrus or other groves, vineyards and nut trees—including trees and groves of nonbearing age. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Orchard acres/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of acres of land producing fruit trees, citrus or other groves, vineyards and nut trees—including trees and groves of nonbearing age per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Orchard acres/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of land producing fruit trees, citrus or other groves, vineyards and nut trees—including trees and groves of nonbearing age per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Berry farms

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms with land producing berries—including blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other types.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Berry farms (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farms with land producing berries—including blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other types. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Berry acres

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of acres of land producing berry production—including blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other types.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Berry acres (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of land producing berry production—including blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other types. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Berry acres/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total number of acres of land producing berry production—including blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other types per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Berry acres/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total number of acres of land producing berry production—including blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other types per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Small slaughterhouse facilities

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of slaughterhouses (poultry and other animals) that meet the U.S. Small Business Administration’s standard for classification as a small business (defined as fewer than 500 employees).

Data source(s): 2012 and 2017 Economic Surveys County Business Patterns for NAICS industries 311611 and 311615.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Small slaughterhouse facilities (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percent change in the number of slaughterhouses (poultry and other animals) that meet the U.S. Small Business Administration’s standard for classification as a small business (defined as fewer than 500 employees). Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 and 2017 Economic Surveys County Business Patterns for NAICS industries 311611 and 311615.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Greenhouse vegetable and fresh herb farms

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms with at least some production of vegetables or fresh-cut herbs produced under glass or other protection (e.g., greenhouses).

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Greenhouse vegetable and fresh herb farms (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farms with at least some production of vegetables or fresh-cut herbs produced under glass or other protection (e.g., greenhouses). Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Greenhouse vegetable and fresh herb square feet

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total square feet of land dedicated to the production of vegetables or fresh-cut herbs under glass or other protection (e.g., greenhouses).

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Greenhouse vegetable and fresh herb square feet (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total square feet of land dedicated to the production of vegetables or fresh-cut herbs under glass or other protection (e.g., greenhouses). Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Greenhouse vegetable and fresh herb square feet/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total square feet of land dedicated to the production of vegetables or fresh-cut herbs that are produced under glass or other protection (e.g., greenhouses) per 1,000 county residents.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Greenhouse vegetable and fresh herb square feet/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total square feet of land dedicated to the production of vegetables or fresh-cut herbs under glass or other protection (e.g., greenhouses) per 1,000 county residents. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture. Population data are from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Population Estimates.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Food hubs

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of self-identified Food Hub organizations operating within each county.

Data source(s): 2023 estimates are compiled from USDA's AMS "Working List of Food Hubs." Food hubs are businesses or organizations that connect farmers and buyers by offering a suite of production, distribution, and marketing services.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from food hub stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA Food Hub Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State food hub agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2023

Indicator: CSA farms

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms marketing at least some products through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) arrangement.

Data source(s): Data for 2023 CSA’s were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division.

Special note: The 2023 data should not be compared to data in previous versions of the Food Environment Atlas, where data was from the Census of Agriculture. AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from CSA stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA, CSA Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from state CSA agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2023

Indicator: On-Farm Markets

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms selling produce and products directly to consumers in an area.

Data source(s): Data for 2023 CSA’s were compiled by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, Marketing Services Division.

Special note: AMS undertakes a focused effort each spring to actively solicit new and updated market information from on-farm market stakeholders in order to keep the listings in the USDA National On-Farm Market Directory as accurate and comprehensive as possible. Information included in the Directory is voluntary and self-reported to AMS by market managers, representatives from State on-farm market agencies and associations, and other key market personnel.

Available year: 2023

Indicator: Agritourism operations

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of farms reporting sales from agritourism and/or recreational services.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Agritourism operations (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of farms reporting sales from agritourism and/or recreational services. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Agritourism receipts

Geographic level: County

Definition: The total farm revenue derived from agritourism and/or recreational services.

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012 and 2017

Indicator: Agritourism receipts (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the total farm revenue derived from agritourism and/or recreational services. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): 2012 Census of Agriculture and 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Available years: 2012–17

Indicator: Farm to school program

Geographic level: County

Definition: Counties with one or more farm-to-school activities where 1=one or more "farm-to-school" programs and 0=no such participation within the county. The Farm to School Census prioritizes gathering procurement data related to local sourcing.

Data source(s): The 2019 Farm to School Census conducted questionnaires on whether public school districts, private schools, and charter schools conducted farm-to-school activities.

Available year: 2019

Category: Health and Physical Activity

Indicator: Adult diabetes rate

Geographic level: County

Definition: Estimates of the age-adjusted percentage of persons aged 20 and older with diabetes (gestational diabetes excluded).

Data source(s): U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Division of Diabetes Translation, Diabetes Surveillance System.

Available years: 2015 and 2019

Indicator: Adult obesity rate

Geographic level: State

Definition: Estimates of the age-adjusted percentage of persons aged 20 and older who are obese, where obesity is a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 kilograms per meters squared.

Data source(s): CDC, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2012 and 2017

Available years: 2017 and 2022

Indicator: High schoolers who are physically active (percent)

Geographic level: State

Definition: The percentage of high school students who self-report participating in any kind of physical activity that increased their heart rate and made them breathe hard some of the time for a total of at least 60 minutes per day on each of the 7 days before the survey.

Data source(s): Tabulations of data are from the High School Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2021.

Available year: 2021

Indicator: Recreation and fitness facilities

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of "fitness and recreation centers" located in a county where "fitness and recreation centers" (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 713940) are establishments primarily engaged in operating fitness and recreational sports facilities featuring exercise and other active physical fitness conditioning or recreational sports activities, such as swimming, skating, or racquet sports.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Recreation and fitness facilities (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percent change in the number of "fitness and recreation centers" located in a county where "fitness and recreation centers" (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 713940) are establishments primarily engaged in operating fitness and recreational sports facilities featuring exercise and other active physical fitness conditioning or recreational sports activities, such as swimming, skating, or racquet sports. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns.

Available years: 2016–20

Indicator: Recreation and fitness facilities/1,000 population

Geographic level: County

Definition: The number of "fitness and recreation centers" located in a county divided by the number of county residents, where "fitness and recreation centers" (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 713940) are establishments primarily engaged in operating fitness and recreational sports facilities featuring exercise and other active physical fitness conditioning or recreational sports activities, such as swimming, skating, or racquet sports.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates.

Available years: 2016 and 2020

Indicator: Recreation and fitness facilities/1,000 population (percent change)

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percent change in the number of "fitness and recreation centers" located in a county divided by the number of county residents, where "fitness and recreation centers" (defined by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 713940) are establishments primarily engaged in operating fitness and recreational sports facilities featuring exercise and other active physical fitness conditioning or recreational sports activities, such as swimming, skating, or racquet sports. Percent change indicators are calculated as [((Year 2 – Year 1) / Year 1) x 100].

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, County Business Patterns. Population data are from the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates.

Available years: 2016-20

Category: Socioeconomic Characteristics

Indicator: Percent White

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is non-Hispanic White.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent Black or African American

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is non-Hispanic Black or African American.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent Hispanic or Latino

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is of Hispanic or Latino.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent Asian

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is Asian.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent American Indian and Alaska Native

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is American Indian and Alaska Native.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Other Race

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is Other Race.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Two or More Races

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population that is two or more races.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent of population that is 65 years or older

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population 65 years old or older.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Percent of population that is under age 18

Geographic level: County

Definition: The percentage of the county’s resident population under the age of 18.

Data source(s): U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2020 Census.

Available year: 2020

Indicator: Median household income

Geographic level: County

Definition: Median income by household: An income level that divides county households in half, one half with income above the median and the other half with income below the median; includes income of all household members 15 years old or older.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, American Community Survey.

Available year: 2021

Indicator: Poverty rate

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percent of county population living in families with incomes below their poverty threshold; poverty status thresholds vary by family size, number of children, and age of householder; if a family's before tax money income is less than the dollar value of their threshold, then that family and every individual in it are considered to be in poverty. For people not living in families, poverty status is determined by comparing the individual's income to their poverty threshold.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, American Community Survey.

Available year: 2021

Indicator: Persistent-poverty counties

Geographic level: County

Definition: Counties with a poverty rate of 20.0 percent or more for 4 consecutive time periods, about 10 years apart, spanning approximately 30 years (baseline time period plus 3 evaluation time periods).

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Poverty Area Measures, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.

Available years: 2017–21

Indicator: Deep poverty rate

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percent of county population living in families with income below half of one’s poverty threshold.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, American Community Survey.

Available year: 2021

Indicator: Child poverty rate

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percent of county population under age 18 living in families with incomes below their poverty threshold; poverty status thresholds vary by family size, number of children, and age of householder; if a family's before tax money income is less than the dollar value of their threshold, then that family and every individual in it are considered to be in poverty. For people not living in families, poverty status is determined by comparing the individual's income to his or her poverty threshold.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, American Community Survey.

Available year: 2021

Indicator: Deep child poverty rate

Geographic level: County

Definition: Percent of county population under age 18 living in families with cash incomes below half of one’s poverty threshold

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, American Community Survey.

Available year: 2021

Indicator: Metropolitan/nonmetropolitan counties

Geographic level: County

Definition: Classification of counties by metropolitan or nonmetropolitan definition, where 1=metro county; 0=nonmetro county; metropolitan areas include all counties containing one or more urbanized areas: high-density urban areas containing 50,000 people or more; metropolitan areas also include outlying counties that are economically tied to the central counties, as measured by the share of workers commuting on a daily basis to the central counties. Nonmetropolitan counties are outside the boundaries of metropolitan areas and have no cities with 50,000 residents or more.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Poverty Area Measures, using data from the Office of Management and Budget, Metropolitan statistical areas.

Available year: 2023

Indicator: Population-loss counties

Geographic level: County

Definition: Classification of counties by whether they were losing population where 1=population loss; 0=all other counties; a county was classified as population loss if the number of residents declined between the 1990 and 2000 censuses, and between the 2000 and 2010 censuses.

Data source(s): USDA's Economic Research Service, Atlas of Rural and Small Town America, County Typology Codes, using data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.

Available year: 2015