In recent years, the way we show and understand data on maps has changed a lot. Maps are now used to show things like election results, population changes, climate shifts, how diseases spread, and much more. To show this kind of information, different types of maps are used. One of the most common and useful types is called a choropleth map.

If you want to display information like how crowded an area is (population density), how people voted in an election, or how income levels differ from place to place, a choropleth map is a great choice.

This article will explain what a choropleth map is, what it’s used for, and how you can create one. We’ll also share examples and tips for using Infogram to make your own maps.

What Is a Choropleth Map?

A choropleth map is a type of map that uses different shades or colors to show values in specific areas, such as countries, states, or cities. The name comes from Greek: “choros” means region or area, and “plethos” means many or a large number.

Instead of using numbers or text to show data, choropleth maps use colors. The color tells you how high or low a number is. For example, on a map showing population, dark colors might mean a place is very crowded, while light colors mean fewer people live there.

Simple Example:

Think of a map where each state is a different shade of blue. A dark blue state might have a high unemployment rate, while a light blue state has a low unemployment rate. Just by looking at the map, you can quickly see where things are better or worse.

What Can a Choropleth Map Show?

Choropleth maps are useful for showing many different types of data. Here are some common examples:

• Population density – Where most people live
• Income levels – How much money people make in different areas
• Education levels – How many people have college degrees
• Climate information – Average temperatures or rainfall
• Health data – Rates of disease, hospital access, or vaccination
• Election results – Which political party won in each area

By using color, a choropleth map helps people easily understand where values are high or low. This makes it much easier to see patterns across a map than looking at a spreadsheet full of numbers.

Why Use a Choropleth Map?

Choropleth maps are used in many areas of work and research because they make complex data easy to understand. Here’s how different fields use them:

1. Economics

Economists use choropleth maps to see how things like income, job rates, and spending differ from region to region. This helps governments and businesses plan better.

2. Sociology

Sociologists study people and society. They use maps to understand where people live, how they move, and how life differs in various areas. This helps with social planning and policy-making.

3. Public Health

Doctors, researchers, and public health teams use choropleth maps to see where illnesses are common and which areas need more medical help. This helps direct resources to the right places.

4. Environmental Science

These maps are used to study climate, animal habitats, pollution, and more. Seeing environmental data on a map helps researchers and governments make smart choices about nature.

5. Education and Public Awareness

Teachers and media use choropleth maps to explain big ideas in a simple, visual way. It helps students and the public understand important issues faster.

Choropleth maps are helpful because they tell a story using color and space. They turn raw data into something people can look at and quickly understand.

Example of a Choropleth Map

Let’s look at two easy examples to understand how these maps work:

Example 1: Unemployment by State

Imagine a map of the U.S. showing unemployment. States with high jobless rates are dark red, and states with low unemployment are light pink. By glancing at the map, you can tell where jobs are scarce and where the economy is stronger.

Example 2: U.S. Election Results

Now think of a map showing how each state voted in a presidential election. States that voted for one party are blue, while the others are red. This lets you see which areas supported which candidate.

These examples show how choropleth maps can turn big, complicated information into a clear picture.

How to Make a Choropleth Map with Infogram

If you want to make your own choropleth map, Infogram is a great tool. It’s simple to use and doesn’t require advanced technical skills. Here’s how you can make a map step by step:

Step 1: Choose a Template

Start by visiting Infogram and choosing the “Single Map” option. This gives you a starting point for your map.

Step 2: Sign Up or Log In

You’ll need to create an account or sign in to use Infogram’s tools.

Step 3: Select Map Type

Once you’re inside the editor, pick the “Area Map” option. This is the one used for choropleth maps.

Step 4: Add Your Data

Upload your data. You can use Excel files, CSV files, or even Google Sheets. Make sure your data includes regions (like states or countries) and values for each one.

Step 5: Customize Your Map

Now you can change how your map looks:

• Choose your colors
• Add labels and titles
• Adjust borders
• Set up hover effects or click interactions

Infogram makes it easy to design a professional-looking map that fits your needs.

Helpful Features on Infogram

Infogram offers more than just map-making. Here are some of its best features:

Custom Maps

Pick from maps of countries, cities, or custom regions.

Easy Data Upload

Connect your spreadsheet or upload a CSV to bring in your data.

Interactive Maps

Let users hover over or click on regions to see more info.

Real-Time Updates

Connect your map to a live data source and it will update automatically.

Team Collaboration

Invite others to edit or work on the map with you.

Responsive Design

Your map will look great on desktops, tablets, and phones.

Other Map Types on Infogram

Besides choropleth maps, Infogram lets you create:

• Bubble maps – Show values with circles of different sizes
• Heat maps – Use gradients to show intensity
• Icon maps – Place custom symbols on a map
• Time-lapse maps – Show how data changes over time

This flexibility means you can pick the best type of map for your specific data and message.

Final Thoughts on Choropleth Maps

Choropleth maps are one of the most powerful ways to show geographic data. They help turn boring numbers into eye-catching visuals that are easy to understand.

With tools like Infogram, anyone can create a choropleth map, even if they have no background in design or data science. These maps can be used for school, work, research, or just sharing interesting facts.

So next time you want to explain something using geography and numbers, try a choropleth map. It’s one of the best ways to turn your data into a story people can see and remember.