Geocoding – Guide to Address Locating in ArcMap

January 27, 2009 by Timothy
Filed under ArcGIS, Data Management, GIS Tips

Geocoding is a process that enables you to match database records to a real world location based upon attribute fields such as addresses, PINs, Cities, etc. Carrying out this process in ArcMap is very simple and can be completed in just a few steps.

Note: This example uses addresses, but other attributes can be used.

1. Compile Address Table – This can be done in excel, access, or other compatible file format .

Read more on: Excel in ArcGIS Desktop

2. Create Address Locator – The address locator will be based upon the data that needs to be located and the reference data.

Open ArcCatalog
Open desired folder for Locator to be saved in
Right click in contents area
Click New -> Address Locator…

3. Choose Locator Style – This will depend upon the source data and reference data. These data types need to correlate.

4. Set Address Locator Options

Name and Description
Reference data – The data you will match to such as address points, streets, or city points.
Match corresponding fields – This will vary by locator style. US Streets is shown here.
Set Matching Options – You will find which configuration works best through trial and error.
Click Ok

Your locator has now been create and is shown in ArcCatalog via the “House” icon.

5. Add Address Table to Map – You can add Excel tables directly into ArcMap (9.2 or later) or create a .dbf table to be added in.

6. Right Click Table -> Geocode Addresses…

7. Add Locator to Map and Select it to be Used – You will need to browse to the folder (via the “Add..” button) that contains the created locator.