A Census Designated Place (CDP) is a term used by the United States Census Bureau to identify unincorporated areas that resemble cities or towns. These areas are defined for statistical purposes and help provide data on population, housing, and demographics. CDPs do not have their own local government but are recognized for census data collection. CDPs can vary in size and population, ranging from small communities to larger neighborhoods. They are often used to represent areas that are important for local planning and resource allocation. Examples of CDPs include Lakewood, California and Holly Springs, North Carolina.