The historical population data for the ZIP code 79842, which encompasses Marathon in Texas, reveals a sparsely populated area with a population density consistently below 0.25 people per square mile from 2010 to 2022. The population fluctuated between 344 and 679 residents during this period, with the most recent data point in 2022 showing a population of 344 and a density of 0.13 people per square mile.

Given the extremely low population density, this ZIP code can be classified as a remote rural area. The lifestyle in such areas is typically characterized by vast expanses of land per household, often exceeding 5 acres, and a focus on privacy and self-sustainability. The predominant land use is likely agricultural or undeveloped, with residents engaging in outdoor and recreational activities due to the natural environment.

The estimated number of housing units corresponding to the 2022 population is approximately 132, based on the national average household size of 2.61. This low number of housing units spread across the ZIP code's 2,696.22 square miles further emphasizes the sparse nature of the population distribution.