The historical population data for the 61262 ZIP code, which corresponds to Ophiem in Illinois, reveals a predominantly rural lifestyle and sparse urban development activity over the past decade. With a land area of 43.9 square miles and a population of 1,221 in 2022, the population density stands at 27.81 people per square mile, indicating a very low population concentration.

Throughout the period from 2010 to 2022, the population has fluctuated within a relatively narrow range, from a high of 1,597 in 2011 to a low of 1,221 in 2022. The population density has also remained consistently low, peaking at 36.38 people per square mile in 2011 and declining to 27.81 people per square mile in 2022. This suggests that the area has maintained its rural character over time, with no significant urbanization or population growth.

Given the national average household size of 2.61, the estimated number of housing units in the ZIP code for 2022 is approximately 468. This low number of housing units spread across a large land area implies that the typical land use involves expansive plots per household, likely exceeding 5 acres. The lifestyle in this area is likely centered around agriculture, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of privacy and self-sustainability.