A geographic region defined by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for the purpose of statistical data collection and analysis. CBSAs are composed of a core urban area with a substantial population nucleus, along with adjacent counties that have a high degree of social and economic integration with the core.
The central urban area within a CBSA that serves as the primary economic and social hub. It typically consists of one or more densely populated cities and surrounding densely settled counties.
A type of CBSA characterized by a core urban area with a population of at least 50,000 people, along with adjacent counties that have a high degree of integration with the core based on commuting patterns.
A type of CBSA that contains an urban core with a population between 10,000 and 50,000 people, along with adjacent counties that are economically and socially tied to the core.
The largest city within a CBSA, typically serving as the economic and cultural center of the region.
A former designation used for larger MSAs with multiple core cities or significant suburban areas. This term has been largely replaced by the broader CBSA classification.
An aggregation of adjacent CBSAs that have significant economic and social ties, but which may not meet the criteria to be considered a single MSA or µSA on their own.
Geographic entities, such as independent cities, boroughs, or parishes, that are treated as counties for statistical purposes within a CBSA.
A subdivision of a CBSA delineated around a single urbanized area or cluster with a population of at least 2,500. CBDs are used in micropolitan areas where a traditional core city may not exist.
A densely settled area within a micropolitan CBSA that has a population between 2,500 and 50,000 people.
The portion of a CBSA that lies outside of urbanized areas and urban clusters, typically characterized by lower population density and a focus on agricultural or natural resource-based economies.
The delineation of the geographic extent of a CBSA, which is determined based on commuting patterns and measures of social and economic integration between counties.
The commercial and often geographic heart of a core urban area within a CBSA, typically characterized by a concentration of office buildings, retail establishments, and cultural institutions.
The geographic area from which people commute to work within a CBSA. Commute sheds are used to assess the extent of economic and social integration between the core and surrounding counties.
The primary industries and sectors driving economic activity within a CBSA, including manufacturing, services, tourism, and natural resources.