Fresh migration, aircraft data

The San Diego Union-Tribune used IRS migration data to report on residents leaving the region for cheaper housing in the West, illustrating how journalists can track population movement and income patterns across counties. The article highlights IRS migration databases and other public records available through IRE and NICAR that enable reporting on demographic and economic trends.

"San Diego County may have a stunning coastline, incomparable weather and a world-famous zoo, but all that has not been enough to stem the flow of residents leaving the region for fast-growing areas in the West where housing is far cheaper."

So began a recent story by the San Diego Union-Tribune that used Internal Revenue Service migration data, which is offered by the IRE and NICAR Database Library. The U.S. Census Bureau compiles the data, based on personal income tax return information, for the IRS.

The database allows journalists to track the movement of people and their incomes, in and out of counties, from 1992 through 2002. USA Today used the migration data in an October 2002 report about how migration of affluent Californians has led to the dominance of Republican politicians in the mountain west states.

Other recent updates include the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration Aircraft Registry, which lists all aircraft and aircraft owners registered in the United States (current through February 2003). Find out more at www.ire.org/datalibrary/databases or call 573-884-7711.