Based on the historical population data provided for ZIP code 90291 in Los Angeles, California, the area can be classified as a dense urban environment. The population density has consistently remained above 10,000 people per square mile from 2010 to 2022, peaking at 10,666.41 in 2018. This high population density suggests a highly urbanized lifestyle with multi-story residential buildings, commercial establishments, and well-developed infrastructure and services.

The total population in this ZIP code has fluctuated slightly over the years, with a general trend of modest growth from 2010 to 2018, followed by a slight decline in recent years. In 2022, the population stood at 26,094, with a corresponding population density of 10,074.9 people per square mile. Despite the minor population fluctuations, the area has maintained its dense urban character throughout the period under consideration.

Given the national average household size of 2.61, the estimated number of housing units in 2022 for this ZIP code is approximately 9,998. This suggests a high concentration of residential units within the 2.59 square mile area, likely consisting of apartments, condominiums, and other multi-family dwellings typical of dense urban environments.