208 area code
The 208 area code is the primary area code for the state of Idaho, covering the entire state except for the western corner which is served by area code 986. It was created as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) in 1947 and was one of the original area codes established in the United States.
Idaho is known as the “Gem State” due to its abundance of natural resources and stunning landscapes. The 208 area code covers over 84,000 square miles and is home to over 1.7 million people, making it the 11th largest state in terms of landmass and the 39th most populous state in the country. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the 208 area code, covering its city names, counties, major cities, zip codes, geography, climate, tourist attractions, education, healthcare, government, and recent changes and updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What cities are included in the 208 area code?
A: The major cities in the 208 area code include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls. However, there are over 600 cities and towns that are served by the 208 area code, covering the entire state of Idaho.
Q: What counties are served by the 208 area code?
A: The 208 area code covers all 44 counties in the state of Idaho. These include Ada, Bannock, Bingham, Bonner, Bonneville, Boundary, Canyon, Caribou, Cassia, Clark, Clearwater, Custer, Elmore, Gooding, Idaho, Jefferson, Jerome, Kootenai, Latah, Lemhi, Lewis, Madison, Minidoka, Nez Perce, Oneida, Owyhee, Payette, Power, Shoshone, Teton, Twin Falls, Valley, Washington, and many more.
Q: How many cities and towns use the 208 area code?
A: There are over 600 cities and towns that use the 208 area code, covering the entire state of Idaho. Some of the major cities include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Caldwell, Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston, Twin Falls, and Post Falls.
Q: What is the population of the 208 area code?
A: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the estimated population of the 208 area code is 1,784,787 as of 2021. This accounts for about 1% of the total U.S. population.
Q: How do I check if a phone number is in the 208 area code?
A: There are various online directories and search engines that allow you to search for a phone number and determine which area code it belongs to. Additionally, you can contact your telephone service provider for further assistance.
Map of the 208 Area Code and its Population
The map above shows the geographical boundaries of the 208 area code, covering the entire state of Idaho except for the western corner. The darker shades represent areas with higher populations, while the lighter shades represent areas with lower populations. The major cities in the 208 area code are highlighted in red.
Geography and Climate of the 208 Area Code
The 208 area code covers a diverse landscape, ranging from high mountain peaks to beautiful valleys and everything in between. The state of Idaho is bordered by Montana to the northeast, Wyoming to the east, Nevada and Utah to the south, Oregon to the west, and Washington to the northwest.
The highest point in Idaho is Borah Peak at 12,662 feet, located in Custer County. The lowest point is in northern Idaho where the Snake River flows into Washington, at an elevation of 710 feet. The state is also home to the famous Snake River Canyon, where daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump the canyon in 1974.
The climate in the 208 area code varies greatly, with the southern part of the state experiencing a semi-arid climate, while the northern part has a more humid continental climate. The state is known for its long, cold winters and hot, dry summers. The central and northern parts of Idaho receive about 20 inches of precipitation per year, while the southern part receives only about 10 inches.
Tourist Attractions in the 208 Area Code
The 208 area code offers a plethora of scenic attractions and outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy. One of the most popular destinations is the capital city of Boise, known for its green parks, museums, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Some of the must-see attractions in Boise include the Boise River Greenbelt, Boise Art Museum, and the Idaho State Capitol building.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the 208 area code is a dream destination. The state is filled with national parks, forests, and mountains to explore. Some popular spots include Sawtooth National Forest, Shoshone Falls, and Yellowstone National Park. Additionally, tourists can enjoy skiing, fishing, hiking, and many other outdoor activities throughout the state.
Education in the 208 Area Code
The 208 area code is home to several notable universities and colleges, including Boise State University, the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, and Brigham Young University-Idaho. These institutions offer a wide range of academic programs and provide opportunities for students to excel in their chosen fields.
In addition to higher education institutions, the 208 area code also has a strong K-12 education system. The state of Idaho has an 86% high school graduation rate, which is above the national average. Idaho also offers a variety of options for primary and secondary education, including charter schools and homeschooling.
Healthcare in the 208 Area Code
The 208 area code is served by numerous hospitals and healthcare facilities, ensuring that residents have access to quality and timely healthcare services. Some of the largest healthcare systems in the state include Saint Alphonsus Health System, St. Luke’s Health System, and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. Additionally, there are several community clinics and medical centers located in various cities and towns throughout the 208 area code.
Idaho consistently ranks among the top states for healthcare access and quality. According to the Commonwealth Fund’s 2021 State Scorecard on Health System Performance, Idaho was ranked 10th out of all 50 states in terms of overall healthcare performance.
Government and Administration in the 208 Area Code
The 208 area code is represented in the U.S. House of Representatives by two congressional districts, District 1 and District 2. The state’s legislative power is vested in the bicameral Idaho Legislature, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The current governor of Idaho is Brad Little, a member of the Republican Party.
The state is divided into 35 counties and each county has its own elected officials, including a county commission and a sheriff. Additionally, there are numerous city councils and mayors throughout the state, responsible for the local administration of their respective cities and towns.
Recent Changes and Updates to the 208 Area Code
In 2022, the 208 area code is projected to run out of available phone numbers, which will initiate the implementation of an overlay area code, 986, for the entire state of Idaho. An overlay, also known as a “distributed” area code, means that the new area code will be added to the same geographic region that is currently served by the 208 area code. Existing phone numbers will keep their original area code, and new numbers will be assigned the new area code.
The 986 overlay will not require people to change their current phone numbers, but it will require 10-digit dialing for all local calls within the 208/986 area codes. Callers will need to include the area code, even when making local calls. This change is being implemented in order to meet the increased demand for phone numbers due to population growth and increased phone usage.
Q&A Section
Q: What is the 986 area code?
A: The 986 area code is an overlay of the 208 area code and will cover the entire state of Idaho. It is being implemented to meet the increased demand for phone numbers in the state and will require 10-digit dialing for all local calls.
Q: When will the 986 overlay go into effect?
A: The 986 overlay is projected to begin in 2022, but the exact date has not yet been determined.
Q: Will I have to change my phone number?
A: No, you will not have to change your phone number. Existing phone numbers will keep their original area code, and new numbers will be assigned the new area code.
Q: How do I dial local numbers after the 986 overlay is implemented?
A: You will need to include the area code when dialing local numbers. For example, instead of dialing 555-1234, you will need to dial 208-555-1234.
Q: Will I be charged long-distance fees for calls within the 208/986 area codes?
A: No, the 986 overlay will not affect the rates for local calls. However, long-distance rates may still apply to calls outside of the 208/986 area codes.
Conclusion
The 208 area code is an integral part of the state of Idaho and represents the strong sense of community and connection among its residents. From its stunning landscapes to its growing cities, the 208 area code has something to offer for everyone. As the state continues to grow and evolve, the implementation of the 986 overlay will ensure that the 208 area code can continue to meet the needs of its residents and businesses for years to come.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about the 208 area code and its cities, counties, geography, climate, attractions, education, healthcare, and government. Stay tuned for further updates and changes to the 208 area code as we continue to keep you informed about its developments.