Demographic data is a key component of community planning. Accurately assessing socioeconomic information helps decision makers understand the needs of the population of a specific area. Demographic data influences federal aid, resource allocation, infrastructure investments, and other areas of strategic economic development plans. Since this data is used to make such important decisions, data integrity is paramount. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development are reliable resources for anyone interested in learning more about the socioeconomic makeup of Hardeman County.