Introduction

ZIP Code Tabulation Areas (ZCTAs) are generalized statistical areas created by the US Census Bureau to provide demographic data for areas that approximate the US Postal Service's ZIP Codes. Unlike ZIP Codes, which are based on mail delivery routes and change frequently, ZCTAs are based on census blocks, are more stable, and are designed for statistical analysis rather than mail delivery. They are not identical to ZIP Codes and do not exist for all ZIP Codes, such as those that are for business or post office box-only use. ZCTAs do not respect county boundaries.

The map and table below give geographic data on Alabama's 659 ZCTAs. The land and water areas are given in square miles.

Map

In the map below, the census-designated central points can be added as a point layer using the layer control. Click on a feature to view summary information about the feature.

Table

Click on a row to see the corresponding ZCTA highlighted in green in the map. For a small ZCTA, you may have to zoom to see the highlighting. Click on the row again to de-select.