This happened in a nice neighborhood. The man probably thought no census worker would be out in the dark of night.
Exactly.
If someone knocked on MY door after 9 at night, I not only would not open the door - I'd not answer it - I'd call someone to come help.
Especially in the country. Not even friends or family would be coming to the house without first calling. Anyone knocking on the door, unannounced, that late at night is reason for alarm...and caution.
There have been cases where perps have pretended to be census takers to get into a home.