Economic Profile System
Download latest data in our fully redesigned Economic Profile System
A note from our Director regarding COVID-19
Is rural America really doing so badly?
Nearly half of rural communities have grown so much since the 1970s they are now classified as “urban.” Those that remain are diverse, but often have more specialized economies.
Fiscal policy is failing rural America
State and federal fiscal policies hurt rural communities by limiting how local governments can grow, diversify, and invest revenue.
Wildfires destroy thousands of structures each year
Explore the number of structures destroyed in each state by wildfire. Structures lost—rather than acres burned—provides a more complete measure of the broad impacts of wildfire.
Montana wildfire risk is widespread and growing
The number of western Montana homes in areas with high wildfire hazard has doubled, outpacing development rates in areas with low wildfire hazard.
Neighborhoods at Risk
See where climate change is likely to impact the most vulnerable people.
How communities reduce flood risk: five midwestern case studies
Communities highlighted in this report have successfully reduced flood risk through strategic partnerships, innovative solutions, and creative funding.
Building funding strategies for flood mitigation projects
This guide provides advice for developing funding strategies for flood mitigation projects, including where to find funding and how to make an economic pitch for mitigation projects.
The Changing Geography of U.S. Electricity Generation
Most U.S. states are adding electricity generation capacity faster than capacity is being retired. Renewable energy adds the most capacity in 18 states.
The Evolution of U.S. Electricity Generation Capacity
The capacity to generate electricity has transitioned from coal to natural gas to renewable energy, a trend projected to continue.
Headwaters Economics
An independent, nonprofit research group that works to improve community development and land management decisions.
Our Data Tools
Explore our free data tools
Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire
Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire (CPAW) works with communities to reduce wildfire risk through improved land use planning. The program is a partnership of Headwaters Economics, Wildfire Planning International, and the USDA Forest Service.