“The U.S. Census Bureau released annual statistics for the 2016 vacancy rates, homeownership rates and characteristics of units available for occupancy for the United States, regions, states and the 75 largest metropolitan statistical areas. Data for all geographies are from the Current Population Survey and are available both quarterly and annually. Homeownership rates are also tabulated by age and race and ethnicity of householder, and by family income. In addition, estimates of the total housing inventory and percentage distributions of vacant units for rent and vacant units for sale only are available. This information is used by public- and private-sector organizations to evaluate the need for new housing programs and initiatives. As a component of the index of leading economic indicators, the rental vacancy rate is used by the federal government and economic forecasters to gauge the economic climate. For more information, please see the Housing Vacancies and Homeownership page.”