Toward a Methodology for Estimating Temporary Residents

Most population statistics for states, counties, and cities refer to permanent residents, or persons who spend most of their time in an area. At certain times, however, many states and local areas have large numbers of temporary residents who exert a significant impact on the area's economy, physical environment, and quality of life. Typically, very little is known about the number, timing, and characteristics of these residents. This study discusses the problems of defining and estimating temporary residents, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of a number of data sources and estimation techniques. It closes with an assessment of the potential usefulness of developing methods to estimate temporary residents.