Which source would best provide official population data for a city?

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Official population data come from a government statistics agency that conducts a census and uses standardized methods to count people. The United States Census Bureau is the definitive source for city population figures. It runs the decennial census and also produces official population estimates in between, all through transparent, documented processes. These numbers are used for representation, funding, and planning, so they’re treated as official figures. Social media posts aren’t verified for accuracy; an encyclopedia compiles information from various sources but isn’t the primary, official source and can be out of date; a newspaper editorial expresses opinion rather than presenting official demographic data.