Understanding High House Numbers in American Addresses
When visiting the United States, one might be surprised by the high house numbers assigned to addresses, often seen in TV shows, movies, and real-life experiences. For instance, addresses like 10303 Berry Street might seem unusually large, leading some to wonder about the reasoning behind such extensive numbering systems.
Standard Methods of Address Numbering
The addressing system used in American cities varies depending on the location and the method chosen by the local municipalities. One common method involves starting the numbering from a central point, such as a courthouse, and then incrementing by 100 per block.
For example, in Cincinnati, Ohio, streets are numbered based on their distance from the Ohio River or Vine Street. My own address, for instance, is 4421, which equates to 44 blocks east of Vine Street. This system helps to maintain a logical sequence that allows for easy navigation and real estate transactions.
Sometimes, a city or neighborhood might use a baseline to start numbering addresses, like the edge of town or a significant landmark. In the case of my nephew in Illinois, he has two different number designations in his address, reflecting the complexity of modern urban environments.
Manhattan as an Exception
Manhattan offers a unique example of how cities can number their streets and avenues. Streets are numbered based on their distance east or west of Fifth Avenue, while avenues start again at 1 regardless of where they begin. This dual system creates a complex yet structured addressing pattern.
To illustrate, if a street is 5 blocks west of Fifth Avenue, it will be numbered as 7 (if the baseline starts at Fifth Avenue). Conversely, avenues maintain consistent numbering throughout the city, though some routes like Park Avenue South maintain legacy numberings.
Other Cities and Their Addressing Systems
Although the primary method described above is prevalent, not all cities follow the same rules. Some addresses in large cities like Los Angeles or Seattle might start at the main thoroughfare or landmark and increment by 100 to 1,000 depending on the distance from the starting point. This approach often reflects the city's physical layout and historical context.
For instance, in Vancouver, Canada, some neighborhoods use grid-like numbering systems, while others rely on named streets. The use of named streets can make it easier to find an address due to a clear association between the street number and the blocks.
Another city, Utah, might use a different methodology entirely. When I sold something to someone in Utah via eBay, the house number was significantly lower, stressing that the numbering system can vary widely depending on the local municipality.
Conclusion
The high numbers seen in American addresses are not arbitrary; they are based on a standardized system that helps with navigation, property identification, and real estate management. Understanding these systems can help newcomers and visitors navigate more effectively and avoid confusion when dealing with addresses in the United States.
From Cincinnati's block-based system to the grid-like layout of Vancouver, or the flexible systems in different US states, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to why house numbers are so high. But understanding these methods can provide insight into the organization and structure of American cities.