The U.S. Census Bureau last week released its twice-a-decade look at what it calls “extended measures of well-being” — and the report is a trove of fascinating data. Among the most interesting nuggets:

  • In 1998, 36% of American households had a cell phone; by 2005, 71% had one. (iIn 1992, the Census Bureau didn’t even ask this question because so few Americans had a mobile phone.)
  • Landline phone ownership dropped from 96% in 1998 to 91% in 2005.
  • “Householders who were 29 or younger went from 35% with cell phones in 1998 to 81% in 2005. Over the same period the same group saw a decrease in ownership of landline phones from 93% to 71%.”
  • In 1992, 49% of American households had dishwasher; by 2005, 64% had one.
  • 96% of American households have a microwave oven.

5 Responses to “Factoids of the day: Abundance in America”

  1. CoCreatr says:

    Thanks for sharing, Daniel. How well off is the Census Bureau if near the end of 2009 they release the figures of 2005?

  2. laanba says:

    That microwave statistic is crazy. 96%!

  3. Have not had a landline for a few years now even though I am in the 50 and over age group.

    As for ‘Drive’ some of your themes echo a book I am currently reading ‘The Adversity Paradox’

    Serge
    ‘The French Guy from New Jersey’

  4. Iain Hamp says:

    I’m 35, and haven’t had a land line since 1999. Back then people had a tougher time wrapping their minds around that concept, but nowadays people don’t bat an eye.

  5. Urska Bahrami says:

    Seriously, it’s sad that you consider having a cell phone living in abundance. No wonder this country is going down the drain. Wake up, this is 2009 and the rest of the world is not sleeping. They own cell phones as well. They can also afford health insurance. But hey, whatever helps us sleep at night. Let’s repeat that: in the USA we live in abundance. In the USA we live in abundance. Nah, it doesn’t fit.

    (I have a feeling I will be moderated)