We all know our ZIP code. We include it every time we write our address. But have you ever thought much about that string of numbers? What do they mean? What’s a ZIP? Why do ZIP codes matter, and why do they exist? We’ll answer these questions and more with these ten fascinating facts about the humble ZIP code.
10 ZIP Code Facts
1. ZIP codes weren’t introduced until the 1960s and their use wasn’t mandatory. (Source)
The U.S. Postal Service wanted to encourage people to start including their ZIP code in their addresses, so they commissioned a 15-minute educational film about the ZIP code, featuring characters representing the numbers as a musical group called “The Swingin’ Six.”
2. The ZIP code was created to help the Postal Service better organize increasing volumes of mail. (Source)
The first number in a ZIP code indicates a point from east to west, with 0 representing the easternmost point in the U.S. The following two numbers indicate the region, and the last two identify the specific post office.
3. The most expensive ZIP code in the U.S. is 11204. (Source)
This ZIP code encompasses Brooklyn, NY, where the average renter can’t afford the median home price, which is over $1 million.
4. ZIP stands for Zone Improvement Plan. (Source)
The name refers to the Postal Service’s attempt to streamline and innovate mail sorting methods.
5. Some ZIP codes have an additional four numbers. (Source)
Twenty years after the creation of the ZIP code, four-digit codes were added to denote specific areas served by the post office. It could be within one large building or a small geographic area. Not every ZIP code has the extra numbers, but they’re common in large cities.
6. Some businesses have their very own ZIP code. (Source)
The most famous example with the easiest ZIP code to remember is General Electric in Schenectady, NY. Their ZIP code is 12345.
7. Some ZIP codes signal prestige and status. (Source)
This is no surprise when ZIP codes represent specific areas. For example, the Midtown West Manhattan ZIP code is 10018, and it’s famous for luxurious mansions and brownstones. There’s a TV show that evokes the Beverly Hills ZIP code, 90210, famous for being home to movie stars.
8. The ZIP code that contains the most businesses is 10001. (Source)
This ZIP is in Chelsea, Manhattan. It includes 7,227 businesses. This exceeds the national average by thousands.
9. The ZIP code was invented by Robert Moon. (Source)
This postal inspector created the first three digits of the ZIP code in 1944. This was later developed by H. Bentley Hahn, who added two more digits.
10. The mascot, Mr. Zip, helped Americans remember to include their ZIP code. (Source)
This cartoon character resembled a friendly mailman. You can still find a plywood depiction of Mr. Zip at the National Postal Museum.
Featured image photo credit: Sean Patrick.
