228 Area Code

The 228 area code is a telephone area code covering the southern portion of Mississippi, including the Gulf Coast region. The area code was created in 1997 through a split from the 601 area code, which previously covered the entire state. Since its establishment, the 228 area code has become a vital part of the telecommunications system in Mississippi, serving a population of about 471,131 people as of 2019.

The 228 area code includes diverse cities, towns, and communities with unique characteristics and attractions. From historic cultural sites to popular tourist destinations, the region covered by the 228 area code has much to offer. This article will explore the cities and towns that use the 228 area code and learn more about their population, geography, climate, economy, and other essential aspects.

Major Cities that Use the 228 Area Code

The 228 area code covers a total of eleven cities and towns in Mississippi. Based on population, the three largest cities in the 228 area code are Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula. Other notable cities and towns in the area include Ocean Springs, D’Iberville, and Long Beach.

Gulfport: With a population of around 67,793 people, Gulfport is the largest city in the 228 area code and the second-largest city in Mississippi. Located in Harrison County, Gulfport has a total area of 67 square miles, of which 54 square miles is land and 13 square miles is water. Gulfport is known for its white sandy beaches, beautiful ocean views, and active nightlife.

Biloxi: The city of Biloxi is the second-largest in the 228 area code, with a population of around 46,212 people. Located in Harrison County along the Gulf of Mexico, Biloxi boasts a total area of 46.4 square miles, of which 39.3 square miles is land and 7.1 square miles is water. Biloxi is a popular tourist destination, known for its casinos, beaches, and seafood restaurants.

Pascagoula: Located on the Mississippi Sound, Pascagoula is the third-largest city in the 228 area code, with a population of around 21,981 people. Pascagoula has a total area of 28.9 square miles, of which 10.8 square miles is land and 18.1 square miles is water. The city is an industrial hub and home to a large shipbuilding yard. Pascagoula is known for its nature trails, parks, and outdoor recreational activities.

All Cities and Towns that Use the 228 Area Code

The following is a list of all the cities and towns that use the above area code in Mississippi:

• Gulfport
• Biloxi
• Pascagoula
• Ocean Springs
• D’Iberville
• Long Beach
• Pass Christian
• Gautier
• Waveland
• Bay St. Louis
• Moss Point

Each city and town has unique characteristics and attractions, making the above area code a diverse and exciting region to live in and visit.

Population and Demographics

As of 2019, the 228 area code has a total population of around 471,131 people, with a population density of approximately 191 people per square mile. The population in the above area code has grown at a steady rate of about 2% per year since its establishment in 1997.

The racial and ethnic makeup of the area code is diverse, with a majority of the population being White (68.7%), followed by African American or Black (23.7%), Hispanic or Latino (4.6%), and Asian (1.8%). The area code is also home to a significant Native American population, with several reservations located within its boundaries.

The above area code has a relatively young population, with a median age of 38.6 years compared to the national median of 38.7 years. The area code also has a higher percentage of females (52.3%) than males (47.7%).

Geography and Climate

The 228 area code is in the warm-temperate climate zone, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The region receives an average of 66 inches of rain annually and an average temperature of 68°F.

The terrain in the above area code is predominantly flat, with a mix of coastal plains, marshlands, and pine forests. The Gulf of Mexico provides a beautiful coastline of around 130 miles, making it popular for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.

Tourist Attractions

The 228 area code has a variety of tourist attractions, with its beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and historic landmarks. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the area include:

• Biloxi Lighthouse
• Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Beauvoir, the Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library
• Biloxi Beach
• Walter Anderson Museum of Art
• Ship Island Excursions
• The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies
• Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
• Gulf Coast Gator Ranch and Airboat Tours
• Wintzell’s Oyster House

These attractions draw in tourists and contribute significantly to the economy and culture of the 228 area code.

Education

Several school districts, including Harrison County School District, Jackson County School District, and Biloxi Public School District, serve the above area code. The region is also home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

The education system in the area code is continually improving, with high school graduation rates on the rise and access to higher education becoming more accessible.

Healthcare

The 228 area code has a robust healthcare system, with several hospitals and medical centres in the region. The most prominent healthcare providers in the area include Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, Singing River Health System, and Keesler Medical Center.

In addition to traditional healthcare facilities, the above area code has access to alternative medicine and holistic health practices, making it a popular destination for wellness retreats and therapies.

Government and Administration

The 228 area code is part of Mississippi and follows state laws and regulations. Each city and town within the area code also has its own government and administration structure, with elected officials and local policies.

The Mississippi Legislature is the state’s legislative branch, with 52 members in the Senate and 122 in the House of Representatives. The Governor of Mississippi and the state’s executive branch oversee the day-to-day operations and administration.

Area Codes and Zip Codes in the 228 Area Code

In addition to the 228 area code, two other area codes cover parts of Mississippi. These include the 662 area code, which covers the northern and western portions of the state, and the 601 area code, which covers the central and eastern parts.

Zip codes within the above area code range from 39501 to 39595, with additional zip codes in the nearby 601 and 662 area codes. These zip codes identify specific areas for mail delivery, shipping, and other purposes.

Recent Changes and Updates

In the telecommunications industry, area codes constantly change; the 228 area code is no exception. In recent years, there have been discussions about a possible overlay for the 228 area code, which would involve adding a new area code to the same geographic region. This would not require current phone users to change their numbers, but instead, new numbers would be assigned with the new area code.

The proposed overlay, expected to take place in the next few years, is meant to ensure the availability of phone numbers in the 228 area code as the population and demand for phone numbers continue to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was the 228 area code created?

A: The 228 area code was created in 1997 through a split from the 601 area code to accommodate the growing population and demand for phone numbers in the southern portion of Mississippi.

Q: What is the population of the 228 area code?

A: As of 2019, the estimated population of the 228 area code is 471,131.

Q: What are the largest cities in the 228 area code?

A: The most prominent cities in the 228 area code are Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.

Q: What are some popular tourist destinations in the 228 area code?

A: Some popular tourist destinations in the 228 area code include Biloxi Lighthouse, Gulf Islands National Seashore, and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art.

Q: Will the 228 area code change in the future?

A: There have been discussions about a possible overlay for the 228 area code in the future, but no changes have been implemented. Stay informed about updates or changes through your phone service provider or the official Mississippi Public Service Commission website.