About Population Estimates
The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development's Research and Analysis Section releases population estimates each year through July 1 for all boroughs, census areas, cities, and census designated places. The estimates are used for research and planning, distribution of resources by public and private agencies, and the updating of population projections.
The population estimates begin with data from the last decennial census (e.g., Census 2000 for the annual 2001-2009 estimates), which R&A adjusts for known errors and post-census changes in geography. For estimates each year following the census, R&A incorporates administrative data that can be used as indicators of population change or revised to create the latest series, or “vintage.” Indicator data include Permanent Fund Dividend applications, data from military and group quarters surveys and research, and a state total population estimate from the U.S. Census Bureau. After release of data from the subsequent decennial census (e.g. Census 2010 for the 2001-2009 estimates), R&A makes final adjustments for the intercensal years.