Based on the historical population data for the 12209 ZIP code in Albany, New York, spanning from 2010 to 2022, the area can be classified as urban. The population density has consistently remained above 4,900 people per square mile throughout the period, reaching a peak of 6,379.59 in 2015. As of 2022, the population density stands at 5,291.33 people per square mile, which falls within the urban range of 3,000 to 10,000 people per square mile.

The urban lifestyle in this ZIP code is characterized by a mix of residential types, including multi-story buildings and denser developments. Living spaces are typically smaller compared to suburban or rural areas, ranging from 500 to 1,000 square feet. Residents in this area likely enjoy a fast-paced, diverse, and culturally rich lifestyle, with access to extensive public transportation, restaurants, theaters, and museums.

The estimated number of housing units corresponding to the 2022 population is 3,973.56, based on the national average household size of 2.61. This suggests a relatively high concentration of housing units within the 1.96 square mile area of the ZIP code, further supporting the urban classification.