Census Bureau Releases New Local Estimates of Air Conditioning Access

MAY 19, 2026 - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the 2023 Local Air Conditioning Estimates (LACE), a new experimental data product that provides local data on how many homes have air conditioning. The estimates are available for the nation, states, counties and census tracts, offering a detailed look at communities where households may be more vulnerable during extreme heat.

These estimates help show where housing units may lack air conditioning, an important factor in planning and response efforts related to extreme heat.

LACE is designed to complement the Census Bureau's Community Resilience Estimates for Heat (CRE for Heat) and provide a bigger picture of heat-related vulnerability. While CRE for Heat measures social vulnerability and exposure to extreme heat, LACE focuses specifically on estimating the availability of air conditioning in housing units across communities. Together, they can help local planners, policymakers, public health officials, emergency managers and community organizations identify and develop strategies to support neighborhoods that may face greater risks during heat events.

The 2023 LACE combined information from the American Housing Survey (AHS) and the American Community Survey (ACS). Using cross survey modeling, it produced estimates for smaller areas than the AHS alone can typically measure. As an experimental data product, LACE will continue to be evaluated and refined as new methods and needs emerge. Experimental data products are innovative statistical products created using new data sources, methods or approaches to better meet emerging data needs.

Additional information, including methodology and technical documentation, is available on the 2023 LACE product webpage.