International Migration

We estimate international migration in several parts: immigration of the foreign born, emigration of the foreign born, net migration between the United States and Puerto Rico, net migration of natives to and from the United States, and net movement of the Armed Forces population to and from the United States. For each component, we first estimate the total migration flow for the nation. To determine the demographic characteristics and geographic distribution of each component, proxy universes are developed that are assumed to be representative of the different components. The demographic characteristics and geographic distribution of these proxy universes are then applied to the totals for each component. County-level data are controlled to state-level data to ensure the component data sum as required.

For detailed information about the methods used to create estimates of international migration for a specific vintage or product (national, state, or county estimates) follow the links below:

• Vintage 2011 National Population Estimates Methodology [PDF - 179K]
• Vintage 2011 State and County Population Estimates Methodology [PDF - 179K]

• National Population Estimates Methodology [PDF - 179K]
• State and County Population Estimates [PDF - 34K]
• State and County Population Estimates by Age, Sex, Race, and Hispanic Origin [PDF - 126K]
• Vintage 2009 Estimates: Release Notes [PDF - 179K]