Because of rounding, figures may not add up to 100 percent. In some instances, U.S. totals may include data on service schools and outlying areas that are not shown separately. Figures cover people 25 years and older. Figures are estimates based on a survey of 60,000 households conducted in March 1998 and March 1999. The figures are subject to sampling error, and the Census Bureau advises against using them to rank the states.
Poverty thresholds vary by family size and composition.
The projections cover both public and nonpublic high-school graduates in all states. The statistics were prepared for the foundation by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, using data from the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey. Figures represent the composition of state legislatures as of July 2000. Public institutions include those controlled by local and state governments, as well as military academies and other institutions operated by the federal government. Some boards also have governing authority.