The Statistical Abstract of the United States, published since 1878, is the standard summary of statistics on the social, political, and economic organization of the United States. It is designed to serve as a convenient volume for statistical reference and as a guide to other statistical publications and sources. The latter function is served by the introductory text to each section, the source note appearing below each table, and Appendix I, which comprises the Guide to Sources of Statistics, the Guide to State Statistical Abstracts, and the Guide to Foreign Statistical Abstracts.

The 129th edition of the Statistical Abstract continues a proud tradition of presenting a comprehensive and useful portrait of the social, political, and economic organization of the United States. The 2010 edition provides: More than 1,300 tables and graphs that cover a variety of topics such as religious composition of the U.S. population, the amount of debt held by families, parent participation in school-related activities, federal aid to state and local governments, types of work flexibility provided to employees, energy consumption, public drinking water systems, and suicide rates by sex and country. Expanded guide to other sources of statistical information both in print and on the Web. Listing of metropolitan and micropolitan areas and their population. Book jacket.