1940 Census
The 1940 Census came at a momentous time in our Nation's history — as we recovered from the Great Depression and not long before our entry into World War II. It was also the first Census that looked deeper into the details of much of American life. Now, 72 years later, upon release of the 1940 Census forms by the National Archives, we look back and see just how much America changed.
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Top Songs of 1940
- Artie Shaw, "Frenesi"
- Glenn Miller, "In the Mood"
- Tommy Dorsey, "I'll Never Smile Again"
- Bing Crosby, "Only Forever"
- Glenn Miller, "Tuxedo Junction"
If you missed today's live event on the National Archive's coverage, click below.
72 Years Later
On April 2, the National Archives and Records Administration will make individual records from the 1940 Census available to the public for the first time. We invite you to explore our site to see how America has changed since the 1940s. We use compelling links, infographics, and photos to compare the 1940 Census with corresponding information about the 2010 Census. Additionally, be sure to check out our Facts for Features to learn about some of the major innovations in development for the 2020 Census that will control costs and improve efficiency.
1940 Census Facts for Features
Explore the Connections to America's Past
1940s Census Overview
Population Questions Asked
Housing Questions Asked
Pop Culture Fast Facts
Photos from the 1940s
Media Resources
Facts for Features
1940 Census Webinar
Infographic
C-SPAN discussion on upcoming
1940 Census records release
Blogs
• Random Samplings
• Director's Blog
National Archives
Want to find your family's records? Learn how at the
National Archives
Fillable Form [PDF, 163kb]
Life in the 1940s
- On January 31, 1940, Ida May Fuller became the first person to receive social security benefits.
Social Security Administration - In 1940 the average cost of new car was $1,611.
National Bureau of Economic Research [PDF]
- In 1940 a gallon of gas was 18 cents.
US Department of Energy - In 1940, 82.8 percent of US households owned a radio.
Census Bureau - The BLS reported that the price of a 1 LB loaf of bread averaged 8.0 cents through 1940
Bureau of Labor Statistics [PDF]
WE WANT YOU... To Uncle Sam Yourself
1940 Data Visualization
A look at population growth between 1930 and 1940.
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