Within the Division of Planning and Environment, the Research and Statistics unit performs research and analysis of Suffolk County's demographics, economy, commercial market, housing, development, and land use. The Research and Statistics unit also maintains a reference collection of current and historic demographic and economic data including U. S. Census information for the Nassau-Suffolk region. The unit also maintains a comprehensive development database of proposed and existing multi-family housing complexes, retail centers, hotels, and office buildings in the County.

The U.S. Census is taken every ten years and the most recent census was undertaken in 2020. The Census Bureau’s American Community Survey provides updated demographic data annually, and the Census Bureau also conducts various economic censuses and other research. The New York State Data Center provides access to U. S. Census Bureau statistical resources and related data for all of New York State, and the Research and Statistics unit is an affiliate data center in its census partner role for Nassau and Suffolk Counties. In this role, the unit interprets and distributes census data and other statistical information. These requests for information and guidance come from:

• Suffolk County agencies
• Local towns and villages within Suffolk County
• Business
• Media
• Non-profit agencies
• General public