1830 United States Census: Population Trends and Historical Data
The 1830 United States census, the fifth national population count, was conducted on June 1, 1830. Administered by the Office of the United States Marshal, this census provides a critical snapshot of a growing nation during the early 19th century, capturing the demographic shifts of 24 states and several territories.
The results revealed a total population of 12,866,020 people, reflecting a significant growth trend. A notable milestone of this census was the city of New York becoming the first in the nation to record a population exceeding 200,000 residents.
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Key Facts
- Total Population: 12,866,020.
- Most Populous State: New York (1,918,608).
- Least Populous State: Delaware (76,748).
- Population Center: Located in present-day Grant County, West Virginia, approximately 170 miles west of Washington, D.C.
- Slave Population: 2,009,043 people.
- Administration: Managed by the Office of the United States Marshal.
Census Methodology and Questions
The 1830 census focused on gathering specific demographic data to assist in government administration and political representation. The census takers recorded the name of the head of the family and their address, followed by detailed breakdowns of the household members.
Demographic Categories
The census categorized the population into several specific groups:
- Free white males and females: Divided into five-year age groups up to age 20, ten-year age groups from 20 to 100, and a category for those 100 years and older.
- Slaves and free colored persons: Recorded across six distinct age groups.
- Sensory impairments: Specific counts for the blind and those described as "deaf and dumb," further divided by age (under 14, 14 to 24, and 25 and older).
- Citizenship: A count of foreigners who had not yet been naturalized.
Apportionment and the Federal Number
A critical function of the census was to determine the apportionment population (also known as the Federal number). This was used to distribute seats in the House of Representatives and determine direct taxes according to Article 1, Section 2, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution.
Under the rules of the time, the apportionment population was calculated by adding the total number of free persons to three-fifths of the slave population. This mathematical adjustment meant that the Federal number differed from the total population in states with significant slave populations.
Population Summary by State
| Rank | State | Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | 1,918,608 |
| 2 | Pennsylvania | 1,348,233 |
| 3 | Virginia | 1,220,978 |
| 4 | Ohio | 937,903 |
| 5 | North Carolina | 737,987 |
| 6 | Kentucky | 687,917 |
| 7 | Tennessee | 681,904 |
| 8 | Massachusetts | 610,408 |
| 9 | South Carolina | 581,185 |
| 10 | Georgia | 516,823 |
Urbanization and City Rankings
The 1830 data highlights the early dominance of Northeastern cities. New York City led the nation by a wide margin, followed by Baltimore and Philadelphia. The census also tracked smaller urban centers and territories, including the District of Columbia and the territories of Michigan, Arkansas, and Florida.
Top 5 Largest Cities
- New York, NY: 202,589
- Baltimore, MD: 80,620
- Philadelphia, PA: 80,462
- Boston, MA: 61,392
- New Orleans, LA: 46,082
Data Availability and Records
While aggregate data for small areas and compatible cartographic boundary files are available via the National Historical Geographic Information System, no microdata (individual-level records) from the 1830 population census are available. Some records were lost in specific counties within Massachusetts, Maryland, and Mississippi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administered the 1830 census?
The census was administered by the Office of the United States Marshal.
What was the total population of the United States in 1830?
The total population was determined to be 12,866,020 people.
How was the "Federal number" calculated for apportionment?
The Federal number was calculated by adding the total number of free persons to three-fifths of the slave population in each state or territory.
Which city was the first to exceed 200,000 residents?
New York City was the first city to record a population of over 200,000.
Are individual records from the 1830 census available today?
No, microdata for the 1830 population census are not available, although aggregate data for small areas can be accessed through the National Historical Geographic Information System.