In January 2006, information about how much Americans spend for health care, groceries, clothing, transportation, housing and other items will be collected by U.S. Census Bureau field representatives from a sample of households across the country.

     The Consumer Expenditure (CE) Survey program consists of two separate surveys:

• The CE Interview Survey — About 7,500 households will be interviewed
  once every three months to obtain data on relatively large expenditures and
  also for those that occur on a regular basis (such as rent and utilities).

• The CE Diary Survey — Over the year, another 7,500 households will keep
  two consecutive one-week diaries of all purchases — including small, frequently
  purchased items that are normally difficult for respondents to recall later (such
  as toothpaste, bread or a hamburger from a fast-food restaurant).

     The Bureau of Labor Statistics then publishes integrated data from the two surveys — providing a snapshot of our nation’s economy and spending habits. Government economists use the survey results to update a “market basket” of goods and services for the Consumer Price Index, our nation’s single most widely used measure of inflation.

     “Data from the CE enable policymakers to evaluate consumer needs, measure the impact of governmental policies on families and track changes in consumer spending trends,” said George Grandy Jr., director of the Census Bureau’s Atlanta Regional Office.

     Before the CE surveys begin, households receive a letter from Census Bureau Director Louis Kincannon informing them of their selection. Census Bureau field representatives conducting the interviews carry official photo identification badges. The law ensures survey respondents’ personal information and answers are kept confidential.

     Below is an example of CE data results:

Housing-Related Expenditures: 2003-2004

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