FIPS State Codes: A Comprehensive Guide
The FIPS state codes are a standardized system used in the United States to identify and represent states for data processing and official documentation. These codes, established by the Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS), are crucial for various purposes, including:
- Data Management: FIPS codes are used to maintain consistency and accuracy in data sets, ensuring proper sorting and retrieval.
- Governmental Reporting: Federal agencies and state governments utilize these codes for official reports, surveys, and statistical analysis.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS): FIPS codes are integral to GIS software for mapping and spatial analysis.
- Data Integration: By using a standardized code, organizations can integrate data from multiple sources efficiently, eliminating potential inconsistencies.
What are FIPS State Codes?
FIPS state codes are two-digit numerical codes assigned to each state and territory in the United States. They are unique identifiers that provide a consistent and reliable way to represent states in various contexts.
Why are FIPS State Codes Important?
FIPS state codes play a crucial role in ensuring data accuracy, facilitating data integration, and maintaining consistency in official documentation. Their importance lies in:
- Data Integrity: Consistent use of FIPS state codes eliminates potential errors that can arise from using inconsistent state names or abbreviations.
- Standardization: FIPS state codes provide a standard framework for representing states across different applications and systems.
- Efficient Data Processing: These codes allow for faster and more accurate data processing, as they are numerical and easily machine-readable.
- Interoperability: By adopting a common code, organizations can ensure interoperability between their data systems, leading to seamless data exchange.
How to Use FIPS State Codes
The FIPS state codes are readily available through various resources, including:
- NIST Website: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides a comprehensive list of FIPS state codes on its website.
- Online Databases: Several online databases, such as the United States Census Bureau and the National Center for Health Statistics, offer access to FIPS state codes.
- Data Dictionaries: Data dictionaries often include a section dedicated to FIPS state codes, providing detailed information about their usage.
List of FIPS State Codes
| State/Territory | FIPS Code |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 01 |
| Alaska | 02 |
| Arizona | 04 |
| Arkansas | 05 |
| California | 06 |
| Colorado | 08 |
| Connecticut | 09 |
| Delaware | 10 |
| District of Columbia | 11 |
| Florida | 12 |
| Georgia | 13 |
| Hawaii | 15 |
| Idaho | 16 |
| Illinois | 17 |
| Indiana | 18 |
| Iowa | 19 |
| Kansas | 20 |
| Kentucky | 21 |
| Louisiana | 22 |
| Maine | 23 |
| Maryland | 24 |
| Massachusetts | 25 |
| Michigan | 26 |
| Minnesota | 27 |
| Mississippi | 28 |
| Missouri | 29 |
| Montana | 30 |
| Nebraska | 31 |
| Nevada | 32 |
| New Hampshire | 33 |
| New Jersey | 34 |
| New Mexico | 35 |
| New York | 36 |
| North Carolina | 37 |
| North Dakota | 38 |
| Ohio | 39 |
| Oklahoma | 40 |
| Oregon | 41 |
| Pennsylvania | 42 |
| Rhode Island | 44 |
| South Carolina | 45 |
| South Dakota | 46 |
| Tennessee | 47 |
| Texas | 48 |
| Utah | 49 |
| Vermont | 50 |
| Virginia | 51 |
| Washington | 53 |
| West Virginia | 54 |
| Wisconsin | 55 |
| Wyoming | 56 |
| American Samoa | 60 |
| Guam | 66 |
| Puerto Rico | 72 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | 78 |
Examples of FIPS State Codes Usage
Example 1: In a census report, the FIPS state code is used to identify the state of residence for each individual. This code allows for efficient data analysis and comparison across different states.
Example 2: In a GIS system, the FIPS state code is used to define the geographical boundaries of a state, enabling users to visualize and analyze spatial data at a state level.
Example 3: In a database containing customer information, the FIPS state code is used to store the state where each customer resides, enabling targeted marketing campaigns or data analysis by state.
Conclusion
FIPS state codes are essential for data processing, official documentation, and geographic information systems. By providing a standardized system for identifying and representing states, FIPS codes ensure data integrity, facilitate efficient data integration, and maintain consistency across various applications and systems. As a vital component of data management and analysis, FIPS state codes play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable information flow in the United States.