About the data
The following dashboards show the languages spoken at home by San Franciscans. This data covers their ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
The data is from the U.S. Census Bureau. For more information, go to data notes and sources, below the dashboard.
How to use the dashboard
- Navigate between the dashboards using the arrows at the bottom of the window.
- You can filter the data by language spoken or by Supervisorial District with the dropdown menu at the top right.
- To see all data or to clear your selection, select the eraser icon in the upper right corner.
Language diversity data
Data notes and sources
Data notes and sources
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2018-2022 American Community Survey.
Note: The district-level data uses San Francisco's Supervisorial District lines, that went into effect Spring 2022.
Language Access Ordinance compliance data
View all self-reported data collected from City departments for the Language Access Ordinance annual report.
Key terms
San Francisco's threshold languages
The Language Access Ordinance requires City departments provide language access services in the following 3 languages: Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Spanish, and Filipino. These "threshold" languages are designated once the City reaches 10,000 Limited English Proficient (LEP) residents who speak a shared language.
Limited English Proficient (LEP)
This term refers to individuals who do not speak English as their primary language. They have a limited ability to read, write, or understand English.
Interpretation and translation
Interpretation is spoken; translation is written. This distinction is crucial in providing language services.
Compliance reports
View current and past Language Access Ordinance compliance summary reports.