Historically Hard to Count Populations

Historically Hard to Count (HTC) Populations

The census is never perfect, but it has become more accurate over time. In 2010, there was a statistically-insignificant net national overcount, meaning that the number of people over counted was not significant and that the population count as a whole was considered accurate. However, undercounts of specific population subgroups are a recurring challenge, with some groups missed at disproportionately high rates as opposed to other groups which are often overcounted.

These inaccuracies in the census can have negative implications both for these communities and their respective municipal governments.

This Census Complete Count Committee hopes to play a critical role in reducing undercounts in Payne County by helping the Census Bureau identify and focus on hard-to-count (HTC) communities. This map shows where HTC populations are located.


Barriers to Being Counted

  • Language barriers

  • Mistrust in government

  • Privacy/cybersecurity concerns

  • Physical barriers such as inaccessible multifamily units and gated communities

  • Non-traditional living arrangements

  • Lack of reliable broadband or internet access


Known HTC Groups

  • Children under 5 years old

  • Racial and ethnic minorities

  • Non-English speakers n Immigrants

  • Renters and residents who move often

  • Alternative or overcrowded housing units

  • Gated communities and publicly inaccessible multifamily units

  • Persons displaced by natural disasters

  • Persons experiencing homelessness (read How the 2020 Census Counts People Experiencing Homelessness)

  • Young mobile adults

  • Single-parent headed households


Your HTC Committee

  • Stacy Delano, Stillwater Public Library Director

  • Becky Taylor

  • Yuki Clark

  • Norman Jeanne Shamblin 

  • Suzette Barta