If We Contacted You

View from the street 3 walk-up apartments with classical architecture forms

Participation

It’s easy to be a part of the 2023 New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey (NYCHVS). If you were contacted, we ask that you complete an interview with a Field Representative from the US Census Bureau. The interview takes about 30 minutes, depending on how many people live with you.

Interviews are usually done in-person at your home, but we will work with you to find another location if you prefer. We know you are busy. Our team will work around your schedule.

You can call us to make an appointment at 212-584-3490.

The NYCHVS speaks your language. US Census Bureau Field Representatives can conduct your interview in any language you wish.

If you need additional support to complete an interview, we are here to help. We can provide reasonable accommodations at your request.

What we ask

The New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey (NYCHVS) is made for New York City. This means that the questions we ask are designed specifically for New Yorkers and their living situations. The data we collect tell the story of our city. The survey documents the challenges we have faced over the last half century and it reveals the inequalities that many now experience. The survey shows our diversity, from the newest New Yorkers to life-long residents and enables us to understand our differences and our shared experiences.

We know that the challenges we face are often the result of multiple issues. To be able to fully understand New Yorkers’ lives and living situations, we ask a wide variety of questions.

The 2023 NYCHVS includes questions about:

  • Basic information about the apartment or house
  • Maintenance problems in the home
  • Basic information about anyone who lives at the address
  • Rent or mortgage costs
  • Income and other sources of financial support
  • Bills and regular costs
  • Experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic

Why it’s important

To truly understand the experience of New Yorkers, we need to hear your unique story. You have been scientifically selected to represent 250 other New Yorkers and are essential for the survey. Regardless of your experience this past year, we cannot speak to the needs of the City without hearing from New Yorkers like you.

Over the past few years the COVID-19 pandemic has affected many aspects of our lives. Recovery will take a long time and require all of us to do our part. No one knows the City and its needs better than the New Yorkers who live here. Participating in the New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey (NYCHVS) is one way you can help.