Here’s what new census data says about broadband in the US

The US Census Bureau released new data showing how the population changed on a county-by-county basis between July 2020 and July 2021,  and information analysts say it offers interesting insights for cable companies, fiber players and policymakers alike. The Bureau's report shows Los Angeles (CA) and New York (NY) counties lost the greatest number of residents to migration, while Maricopa County (AZ), Riverside County (CA) and Collin County (TX) gained the most. Recon Analytics’ Roger Entner said Los Angeles is home to AT&T and Charter while New York is the stomping ground of Verizon and Altice USA. Cook County in Illinois and San Francisco County in California, which also experienced significant declines, are the territory of AT&T and Comcast, he said. Meanwhile, AT&T, Comcast and Charter all play in the major growth area of Dallas in Collins County, while Maricopa County is served by Cox Communications, Mediacom and Cable One. Anlysts at MoffettNathanson acknowledged “population growth is only a proxy for household formation,” but argued there is “a clear correlation between population growth and reported broadband growth.” Entner agreed the map could prompt those undertaking significant network expansions, like AT&T for instance, to reevaluate their “battle map.” But more than implications for operators, Entner said the census data provides a clear mandate for public policymakers. “What I’m seeing here is that a lot of the areas that have previously had economic trouble, that was exacerbated by the pandemic,” he said. “[Public policy] would and should have to double down on these areas that are the hardest hit. Because we want to give people even less reasons to leave these counties and being digitally connected makes them part of the entire US economy and not just part of the local economy.”