Zip code areas are large and cumbersome with respect to the Making Connections area, but the source of some critical data. Zip codes 8 and 10 make up most of the area, but the Making Connections area is less than half of each zip code. More affluent areas are included and compromise some statistical patterns.

Zip Code 8 also includes an area south of Highland with a different poverty profile - substantially more apartments with small households.

Small portions of Zip code 5 and 6 are also included. In some respects, these more homogenous areas are a better indicator of Making Connections trends.