What is a CBSA (Core Based Statistical Area)?

CBSA (Core Based Statistical Area)

Core based statistical area (CBSA) is a U.S. geographic area defined by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) as a metropolitan area(s) within larger markets (e.g. DMAs) containing a substantial population nucleus that consists of one or more counties (or equivalents) anchored by an urban center of at least 10,000 people plus adjacent counties and adjacent communities that have a high degree of economic and social integration with that core and are socioeconomically tied to the urban center by commuting. CBSA’s are a standard geography for buying and selling outdoor billboard (OOH) advertising, TV, radio, print, internet, and other media. The United States Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has defined 917 core-based statistical areas (CBSAs) for the United States and 12 for Puerto Rico.