The 90062 ZIP code is a distinct geographic area situated in the South Los Angeles region of California. Covering a land area of approximately 1.9 square miles, this densely populated urban neighborhood is part of Los Angeles County. Known for its historical significance and central location within the sprawling Los Angeles metropolitan area, 90062 serves as a residential hub for over 32,000 residents.

The neighborhood is characterized by its high population density, diverse demographic makeup, and a mix of historic residential architecture and local commercial corridors. Strategically located south of the University of Southern California (USC) and Exposition Park, the 90062 ZIP code offers a unique lens into the urban evolution of modern-day Los Angeles.

Geography and Neighborhood Boundaries

Occupying a compact 1.908 square miles, the 90062 ZIP code is an intensely urbanized environment. It is bordered by several other prominent South Los Angeles ZIP codes, including 90011 to the east, 90008 to the west, 90037 to the north, and 90044 and 90047 to the south.

The terrain in this area is largely flat, sitting at an elevation of approximately 140 feet above sea level. This flatness has historically facilitated dense residential development. The coordinates for the center of the ZIP code are roughly 34.0037° N latitude and -118.3097° W longitude.

While the ZIP code does not contain major natural landmarks like large lakes or mountains, its proximity to significant urban landmarks is a defining feature. It sits just outside the immediate boundaries of Exposition Park—home to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Natural History Museum, and the California Science Center. For residents, this means world-class cultural amenities are within walking or short driving distance.

Population and Demographic Profile

The demographic composition of 90062 reflects the broader ethnic and cultural diversity of Los Angeles. Based on recent census data and American Community Survey (ACS) estimates, the area is home to approximately 32,524 residents.

Age and Gender Distribution

The population in 90062 is relatively young compared to national and state averages. The median age is approximately 35.7 years. When broken down by gender, the median age for males is 34.2 years, while for females, it is 37.6 years.

The gender split is nearly balanced but leans slightly female:

  • Female Population: 51.5% (approximately 16,744 residents)
  • Male Population: 48.5% (approximately 15,780 residents)

The age structure reveals a robust presence of young adults and families. The largest age cohorts are those in the 25-29 and 20-24 ranges, which suggests a workforce-active population. There is also a significant number of children under the age of 19, highlighting the area's role as a family residential district.

Racial and Ethnic Makeup

One of the most striking features of 90062 is its ethnic diversity. The neighborhood has undergone significant demographic shifts over the decades and is currently a majority-minority area.

  • Hispanic or Latino: This is the largest ethnic group in the ZIP code, making up approximately 64.3% of the population. This figure is substantially higher than the national average of 18.7%.
  • Black or African American: Representing a historically significant community in South Los Angeles, this group makes up about 18.5% to 28% of the population depending on specific survey years and multi-racial identification.
  • Other/Two or More Races: Approximately 46.2% of residents identify with two or more races, a figure that is significantly higher than the California state average of 21.2%.
  • White: Approximately 5.8% to 7.9% identify as White (non-Hispanic).
  • Asian: This group represents roughly 1.1% of the population.

This multicultural fabric influences the local culture, from the types of businesses found along commercial streets like Western Avenue to the languages spoken in households.

Housing Market and Residential Characteristics

The real estate landscape in 90062 is primarily composed of older, established residential properties. Understanding the housing market here requires looking at both value and the nature of occupancy.

Home Values and Rent

As of the most recent estimates, the housing market in 90062 has seen significant appreciation, following the general trend of the Los Angeles real estate market.

  • Median Home Value: Approximately $711,400. This is a significant increase from previous decades, reflecting the growing demand for housing near the urban core of Los Angeles.
  • Median Gross Rent: Roughly $1,586 per month.

Despite the relatively high home values compared to the national average, the prices in 90062 remain lower than in many Westside Los Angeles neighborhoods or nearby coastal areas, making it a target for both long-term residents and new investors.

Housing Stock and Occupancy

The physical housing stock in 90062 is historic. A majority of the residential structures were built in 1939 or earlier. These homes often feature classic architectural styles characteristic of early 20th-century Los Angeles, such as California bungalows and Craftsman-style houses.

There are approximately 9,433 to 9,795 housing units in the ZIP code. The occupancy characteristics show a neighborhood of high density and a strong rental market:

  • Average Household Size: 3.41 persons. This is higher than the national average, indicating larger family units or multi-generational living arrangements.
  • Renters vs. Homeowners: There is a higher-than-average percentage of renters in this ZIP code. This dynamic is common in dense urban Los Angeles neighborhoods where the cost of entry for homeownership remains a barrier for many.

Economic Environment and Employment

The economic profile of 90062 reflects both the challenges and the resilience of South Los Angeles. The neighborhood is home to a hard-working population primarily engaged in the service and retail sectors.

Household Income

The median household income in 90062 is estimated at approximately $67,701. While this is lower than the national median household income (around $80,734), it represents a significant growth trend from the early 2010s, when median incomes in the area were substantially lower.

  • Family Income: Family households in the area earn a median of $74,035.
  • Non-family Income: Non-family households (individuals or roommates) earn a median of $23,684.

This gap suggests that multi-income family households are the primary economic drivers in the neighborhood.

Employment and Industry

The labor force participation rate in 90062 is approximately 63.1%, which aligns closely with the national average. However, the unemployment rate has historically trended higher than the national figure, recently estimated at around 8.7%.

The largest occupational group for residents is the Service Sector, accounting for nearly 30% of the workforce. This is followed by roles in transportation, retail, and construction. The presence of roughly 221 businesses within the ZIP code boundaries provides local employment, though many residents commute to other parts of Los Angeles for work.

Education and Schools

Educational attainment in 90062 is an area of ongoing development. Approximately 17.56% of residents over the age of 25 hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher. This indicates a community with a mix of skilled labor and those pursuing higher education opportunities.

The ZIP code is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). Within the 90062 boundaries and the immediate surrounding areas, there are several public schools, including:

  • Elementary Schools: Serving the large population of young children in the neighborhood.
  • Western Avenue Elementary School: A notable local institution located within the ZIP code.

Furthermore, the proximity to the University of Southern California (USC) provides an aspirational academic environment and access to various community outreach programs sponsored by the university.

Infrastructure, Utilities, and Administration

The administrative and technical details of the 90062 ZIP code are essential for residents and businesses operating in the area.

Area Codes and Communication

The primary area codes serving 90062 are 323 and 213. Historically, 213 was the original area code for all of Los Angeles, while 323 was created to handle the increasing demand for phone lines in the late 1990s. Today, these area codes are often used interchangeably through an overlay system. Some newer residents may also see the 738 area code as it is phased into the regional network.

Postal Services

The Westvern Post Office, located at 1515 W Vernon Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90062, is the primary postal facility for the neighborhood. It handles standard mail delivery, PO Box services, and retail postal needs.

Sales Tax and Governance

Residents of 90062 are subject to the sales tax rates of the City and County of Los Angeles.

  • Current Sales Tax Rate: 9.5% to 9.8% (varying based on recent local measures).

In terms of political representation:

  • Congressional District: California's 37th Congressional District.
  • State Senate: 30th District.
  • State Assembly: Overlaps parts of the 54th and 59th Districts.

Community Amenities and Lifestyle

Life in 90062 is characterized by an urban, community-oriented lifestyle. Despite the high density, the neighborhood offers several essential amenities.

Libraries and Parks

The Exposition Park Regional Branch Library, located at 3900 S. Western Ave, is a vital resource for the community. It provides not only books and digital resources but also literacy programs, after-school help for students, and community meeting spaces.

For recreation, while internal park space is limited, residents utilize nearby facilities:

  • Exposition Park: Located just to the north, this massive complex provides green space, walking paths, and access to some of the city's most famous museums.
  • Local Community Centers: Various non-profits and religious organizations in the area provide youth sports, senior services, and cultural events.

Transportation

Public transportation is a critical component of life in 90062. The area is well-served by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). Major bus lines run along Western Avenue, Vermont Avenue, and Jefferson Boulevard, connecting residents to the Metro E Line (Expo) and the Metro D Line (Purple).

The high population density (over 17,000 people per square mile) makes the area relatively walkable for local errands, although most residents still rely on a combination of public transit and personal vehicles for commuting to distant parts of the city.

Historical and Cultural Context

The 90062 ZIP code is part of the broader story of South Los Angeles. Historically known as South Central, this region has been a center of African American culture and civil rights history in the western United States. Over the last three decades, the area has also become a vibrant center for the Hispanic immigrant community.

This cultural evolution is visible in the neighborhood's "City Alias" of Westvern, a portmanteau likely derived from the intersection of Western Avenue and Vernon Avenue, two of the area's primary thoroughfares. The local businesses, ranging from traditional soul food eateries to authentic Mexican taquerias, reflect this dual heritage.

The architecture of 90062 tells another story. Unlike the high-rise developments found in Downtown Los Angeles or the modern mansions of the Westside, 90062 is a "working-class" architectural museum. Many of the homes were built during the initial expansion of Los Angeles in the 1920s and 30s, preserving a sense of scale and history that is becoming rarer in other parts of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What city and county is 90062 in?

The 90062 ZIP code is located entirely within the city of Los Angeles and is part of Los Angeles County, California.

Is 90062 a safe place to live?

Like many dense urban neighborhoods in a major metropolis, 90062 has areas with varying safety profiles. It is a residential community with a high police presence and active neighborhood watch groups. Residents benefit from being part of a tight-knit community where long-term neighbors look out for one another.

What is the median home price in 90062?

As of current market estimates, the median home value in 90062 is approximately $711,400. However, prices can vary significantly based on the condition of the home and the specific street.

What are the main area codes for 90062?

The primary area codes are 323 and 213.

What is the population density of 90062?

The population density is approximately 17,046 people per square mile, making it one of the more densely populated residential areas in the Los Angeles basin.

Does 90062 have a local post office?

Yes, the Westvern Post Office is located at 1515 W Vernon Ave and serves this ZIP code.

What is the sales tax rate in 90062?

The current sales tax rate is 9.8%, which includes California state tax plus local Los Angeles county and city increments.

Conclusion and Summary

The 90062 ZIP code represents a vital slice of South Los Angeles, blending historic residential charm with a modern, diverse urban energy. With a population of over 32,000 and a land area of just under 2 square miles, it stands as one of the city's most densely populated and culturally rich neighborhoods.

Key takeaways for the 90062 ZIP code include:

  • Location: South Los Angeles, bordered by Western Avenue and Vermont Avenue.
  • Demographics: A majority-minority population with a high percentage of Hispanic (64.3%) and Black (18.5%) residents.
  • Housing: A competitive market with median home values exceeding $711,000 and a high volume of rental properties.
  • Economy: A median household income of approximately $67,701, supported largely by the service sector and family-based income.
  • Amenities: Home to the Westvern Post Office and the Exposition Park Regional Branch Library, with close proximity to USC and the museums of Exposition Park.

Whether you are looking to move to the area, invest in its appreciating real estate, or simply understand the demographic trends of the region, 90062 offers a compelling example of the complexity and growth of the Los Angeles urban landscape.