How to build a benchmark map

Which areas are notably above or below average?

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Benchmark map

It’s difficult to map unfamiliar data. The Benchmark Map helps you understand your data by coloring it based on a benchmark, such as a national or regional average. In this map of median income, the values near the average receive a white color. Areas above the average are green. The intensity of the green increases as the values increase. Purple areas indicate areas below average. Areas far below average are deep purple. In this way, color is used to express the detail and nuance hidden in your data. 

Key steps

  • Choose the attribute you want to map

    In ArcGIS Online, select “Change Style” for your layer. Choose an attribute to explore. Percentages, rates, medians, index values, or other normalized data make useful benchmark maps. These numbers show variation, for example, at a local level versus a national average.
    Learn to “Change Style”

  • Find what’s interesting in the data

    ArcGIS Online shows a data histogram next to the color ramps or symbol sizes. To get you started, the map shows the average of the data itself. Don’t stop there. Compare the data you have against what you know about the subject. Do adequate research on your topic.

  • Choose colors that emphasize what is interesting

    Use the “Above and Below” theme to clarify what’s going on in your data. Choose a color ramp that highlights areas above the average. Picture yourself saying, “The green areas on this map show…” Do the same for the below-average areas.
    See how to choose a color ramp

  • Apply a benchmark to put meaning into the colors

    This map author did some quick research to learn that the US median household income in 2015 was $59,000. The color ramp is centered around that value. Instantly, the map tells where the median is above or below the national average.
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