Research Topics:

Market Segmentation Studies | Site Selection Analysis

Content Type:

Glossary

Block Numbering Area (BNA) Definition

Statistical subdivisions within non-metropolitan counties for grouping and numbering.

A block numbering area (BNA) is a small geographic unit developed by the U.S. Census Bureau for areas where census tracts were not defined (usually rural or less densely populated places). They’re similar in size and purpose to census tracts and later were replaced by Block Groups and Census Tracts.

For marketing researchers, BNAs are relevant because they:

Provide geographic units for analysis. BNAs allow researchers to break down population and household data into smaller, localized areas. This helps identify where potential customers live, work or shop.

Enable market segmentation by location. Researchers can analyze demographics (income, age, education, race/ethnicity) at the BNA level, which helps businesses target specific communities more effectively.

Support site selection. When choosing locations for retail stores, service centers or restaurants, companies use BNA-level data to evaluate the potential customer base and local market conditions.

Facilitate media and direct marketing. BNA information can be combined with mailing lists, sales territories or media coverage areas to target communications more efficiently.

Fill data gaps in rural areas. Since some regions don’t have census tracts, BNAs give researchers a standardized way to still access and use census data for those communities.

In essence: BNAs give marketing researchers a fine-grained, geography-based tool to understand consumer demographics and behaviors, especially in rural or non-tract areas.