Amarillo, Texas, is a vital hub nestled in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, steeped in rich history and fueled by agriculture, energy, and manufacturing. But beyond its bustling industries and historical roots, Amarillo, like any city, is also defined by a series of numbers: its ZIP codes.
ZIP codes, a creation of the United States Postal Service (USPS), are more than just tools for efficient mail delivery. They’re powerful identifiers that allow for demographic analysis and statistical data collection. By understanding the various Amarillo, Texas zip codes, we can gain a deeper insight into the city’s diverse neighborhoods, economic landscape, and geographic distribution.
This article offers a comprehensive overview of Amarillo through the lens of its 27 ZIP codes. We’ll explore the demographics, economy, and geographic characteristics associated with each, providing a multifaceted portrait of this dynamic Texas city.
Understanding Amarillo’s ZIP Code Structure
Like most cities, Amarillo is divided into ZIP codes that help the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) deliver mail efficiently. There are different kinds of ZIP codes, depending on what they’re used for.
Types of ZIP Codes in Amarillo
The three main types of ZIP codes are standard, PO Box, and unique. Standard ZIP codes are the ones used for most home and business addresses. PO Box ZIP codes are for post office boxes, and unique ZIP codes are usually assigned to a single organization or business that receives a very high volume of mail.
In Amarillo, there are:
- 14 standard ZIP codes
- 7 PO Box ZIP codes
- 6 unique ZIP codes
List of Amarillo ZIP Codes
Here are a few of the ZIP codes you’ll find in Amarillo:
- 79101
- 79106
- 79109
- 79110
- 79118
- 79121
To find out more about any of these ZIP codes, visit the USPS website or another online resource where you can look up detailed information.
Population demographics across Amarillo ZIP codes
What’s the makeup of the population in Amarillo?
Total population and density
The combined population of all ZIP codes within Amarillo is estimated to be 235,893 people.
Within the city proper, the Census Designated Place population is 200,393.
The population density in Amarillo is approximately 340.89 people per square mile.
Age and gender distribution
Across all of Amarillo’s ZIP codes, just over 27% of the population is under the age of 18, and about 14% is over the age of 65.
The gender distribution shows a slight majority of women, with about 51% female and 49% male.
Household and family size
The average household size in Amarillo is 2.54 persons, which means that most households are comprised of two or three people.
The average family size is a bit larger, at 3.04 persons.
Economic Landscape and Income Distribution
Amarillo has a diverse economy, with some areas being more affluent than others. Here’s a look at the city’s economic situation.
Median Household Income
The median household income in Amarillo is about $65,642, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019-2023 American Community Survey estimates.
It’s worth noting that income distribution varies across Amarillo’s different ZIP codes. Some areas of the city have significantly higher median household incomes than others, reflecting differences in housing costs, employment opportunities, and educational attainment.
Employment and Business Statistics
According to the Census Bureau, Amarillo has 5,879 businesses that employ 88,730 people. The city’s total annual payroll is $4,711,916,000.
Major Industries and Employers
Amarillo’s economy is supported by several key industries, including agriculture, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city’s location in the Texas Panhandle makes it a hub for agricultural activity, while its proximity to oil and gas reserves supports a thriving energy sector.
Healthcare is another major employer in Amarillo, with several large hospital systems and medical facilities providing a wide range of services. Manufacturing also plays a significant role, with companies producing everything from food products to aerospace components.
Some of the largest employers in Amarillo include:
- Tyson Foods
- Bell Helicopter
- BSA Health System
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
- Amarillo Independent School District
Housing and Infrastructure
If you’re thinking about relocating to Amarillo, you’re probably wondering about housing costs, types of residences, and the infrastructure that supports the city. Here’s a quick overview:
Total Housing Units
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Amarillo has 99,326 housing units. These include single-family homes, apartments, condos, townhouses, and mobile homes. You’ll find a mix of older, established neighborhoods and newer developments, offering a range of styles and price points.
Residential and Business Mailboxes
Amarillo has 99,851 residential mailboxes and 8,227 business mailboxes, according to the U.S. Postal Service. This gives you an idea of the scale of residential and commercial activity in the city.
Infrastructure and Utilities
Amarillo is served by a network of roads and highways, including Interstate 40 and U.S. Highway 287, making it relatively easy to get around the city and the surrounding area. The city provides water and wastewater services to its residents. Electricity is primarily provided by Xcel Energy. As for internet access, you’ll find a variety of providers offering different speeds and plans, including cable, DSL, and fiber options. You should be able to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Amarillo: Geography and Location
Amarillo sits in the Texas panhandle, a geographic area known for its wide-open spaces and sprawling skies. Here are a few geographic facts about the city:
- Geographic coordinates: 35.2220° N latitude, 101.8313° W longitude
- Total area: 692.01 square miles
- Water area: 8.88 square miles
Amarillo’s area code is 806, and the city observes Central time (GMT -06:00).
If you’re planning a trip to Amarillo, you might be wondering about other cities nearby. Here are a few, along with the approximate distance from Amarillo:
- Canyon, TX: 17 miles south
- Claude, TX: 45 miles east
- Panhandle, TX: 27 miles northeast
- White Deer, TX: 44 miles northeast
- Hereford, TX: 50 miles southwest
The Bottom Line
Amarillo, Texas, is a city defined by its eight unique ZIP codes, each offering a glimpse into the diverse neighborhoods and communities that make up this Panhandle hub. From standard ZIP codes delineating residential areas to PO Box ZIP codes serving specific mailing needs, these codes are more than just numbers; they’re keys to understanding Amarillo’s demographic and economic landscape.
Businesses can leverage this ZIP code data to refine their marketing strategies, targeting specific demographics with tailored campaigns. Residents can use the information to make informed decisions about where to live, considering factors like income levels, housing costs, and population density. Researchers, too, can utilize ZIP code data to conduct in-depth analyses of Amarillo’s evolving demographics and economic trends.
Amarillo is a city on the move, constantly growing and developing. As the city expands, it’s likely that its ZIP code structure and demographics will continue to evolve. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for anyone looking to understand the dynamic nature of Amarillo and its place in the Texas Panhandle. Whether you’re a business owner, a resident, or a researcher, understanding Amarillo’s ZIP codes is essential for navigating and appreciating this vibrant city.