Abstract

Zip code boundaries expressed as a polygon feature class for the City of Philadelphia.

Data Development

Several data sets and sources were used to create the most accurate representation of the zip code boundaries. Starting with a previous iteration of zip code border data, existing borders were compared to data from the US Census Bureau (Zip Code Tabulation Areas). This data was then reconciled with current Zip code information from the United States Postal Service (the authority on zip codes) to get the most current data possible. Several borders were modified to account for changes or cartographic considerations.

Key Attribute Field Names and Descriptions

CODE: Zip code for each polygon.

Coordinate System

Lambert Conformal Conic, NAD83, PA South Stateplane coordinates, US Foot.

Thematic Mapping

Use the CODE field for thematic mapping and labeling.

Other Information

Zip Code Tabulation Areas were developed by the US Census Bureau to overcome difficulties in precisely defining the land area covered by each Zip Code. The ZCTAs are generalized area representation of the USPS Zip code service areas, but are not the same as Zip codes. There is no correlation between ZIP codes and Census Bureau geography. In addition, the USPS frequently realigns, merges or splits ZIP codes to meet changing needs. ZCTAs are constructed by aggregating the Census 2000 blocks whose addresses use a given ZIP code. The census bureau took the ZIP code used by the majority of addresses in each census unit at the time the data was compiled. As a result, some addresses end up with a ZCTA code that is different from their ZIP code.