314 area code
The 314 area code is an area code located in the eastern part of the U.S. state of Missouri. It is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and covers the greater St. Louis metropolitan area, including the city of St. Louis and several of its surrounding counties.
Formed in 1947 as a split from the 816 area code, the 314 area code originally covered the entire state of Missouri. However, as the population of the St. Louis area grew, the area code was gradually divided into several smaller area codes, with the current 314 code remaining in use for the central and eastern portions of the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What cities are included in the 314 area code?
The 314 area code covers the central and eastern parts of the St. Louis metropolitan area, including the city of St. Louis itself and the following major cities:
- Florissant
- University City
- Kirkwood
- Webster Groves
- Clayton
- Ladue
Which counties are served by the 314 area code?
The 314 area code serves parts of several counties in Missouri, including:
- St. Louis County
- St. Charles County
- Jefferson County
- Franklin County
- Madison County
- Bond County
- Jersey County
What is the population of the 314 area code?
As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the total population of the St. Louis metropolitan area covered by the 314 area code was over 2.8 million people. This makes it the second-largest area code in Missouri, behind the 816 area code in the Kansas City area.
What is the climate like in the 314 area code?
The 314 area code experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters. The average temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 89°F, while the average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 35°F. The area also experiences occasional thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms.
What are some popular tourist attractions in the 314 area code?
The 314 area code is home to numerous popular tourist attractions, including the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and the St. Louis Zoo. Other popular destinations include the Missouri Botanical Garden, the City Museum, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis.
How is education in the 314 area code?
The 314 area code is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including Washington University in St. Louis, Webster University, and St. Louis University. The area is also served by several highly-rated public school districts, including the St. Louis Public Schools and the Clayton School District.
What are the healthcare options in the 314 area code?
The 314 area code has a strong healthcare presence, with nationally-recognized hospitals such as Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. The area is also home to numerous healthcare clinics and private practices, ensuring access to quality medical care for its residents.
What is the government and administration like in the 314 area code?
The 314 area code falls within the state of Missouri’s government and is represented by several state and federal elected officials. The city of St. Louis has a mayor-council government, while the various counties and municipalities within the area code have their own local government structures.
Zip Codes in the 314 Area Code
The 314 area code includes several zip codes that correspond to specific cities and towns within its boundaries. Some of the most populated zip codes in the 314 area code are:
- 63105 – Clayton
- 63108 – St. Louis (includes portions of the Central West End and Midtown neighborhoods)
- 63114 – Overland
- 63117 – Richmond Heights (includes parts of Clayton and Brentwood)
- 63119 – Webster Groves
- 63123 – Affton (includes parts of Crestwood and Wilbur Park)
- 63130 – University City (includes portions of the Delmar Loop and Olive Boulevard)
- 63143 – Maplewood (includes parts of Brentwood and Richmond Heights)
It’s important to note that these are just a few examples of zip codes in the 314 area code. For a more comprehensive list, it’s best to consult a zip code directory or an official city or county website within the area code.
Recent Changes & Updates
The 314 area code has remained relatively stable in recent years, with no major changes or updates. However, in 2020, the Missouri Public Service Commission approved an overlay of the current 314 area code with a new 557 area code. This was done to ensure that the area code has enough phone numbers to meet the growing demand for them. The new overlay is set to take effect in the fall of 2021, and all new phone numbers will be assigned to the 557 area code.
It’s important to note that this change will not affect existing phone numbers with the 314 area code. Those numbers will keep their current area code and will not need to be changed. Additionally, all local calls and prices will not be affected by the new overlay.
Q&A
If you have any further questions about the 314 area code, we have provided answers to some commonly asked questions below. However, if you don’t see the answer you’re looking for, please feel free to submit a question through our website or contact your local government for more information.
Will I need to change my phone number because of the overlay?
No, if you currently have a phone number with the 314 area code, you will be able to keep that number. Only new phone numbers assigned after the overlay takes effect will have the new 557 area code.
How will this affect phone calls and text messages?
The introduction of the new 557 area code will not affect local phone calls or text messages. However, customers who have a 10-digit number starting with 314 will need to use the new area code, followed by the seven-digit phone number, for all long-distance calls and text messages.
Will I have to dial 10 digits for local calls now?
No, local calls within the 314 area code will continue to be dialed using seven digits. However, for calls to other area codes or for calls to the new 557 area code, 10-digit dialing will be required.
When do I need to start using the new 557 area code?
The new overlay will take effect on October 24, 2021. After that date, all new phone numbers will be assigned to the 557 area code, so it’s best to start using the full 10-digit number for all calls and texts at that time.
Will this affect my phone bill?
No, existing phone numbers will not be affected by the new overlay, so there should be no impact on your phone bill. However, it’s best to check with your phone service provider if you have any concerns.
Conclusion
The 314 area code is an important part of the St. Louis metropolitan area, covering the city of St. Louis and several of its surrounding counties. It has a rich history and a diverse population, making it a vibrant and thriving area of Missouri. The upcoming overlay with the new 557 area code is a necessary step to meet the growing demand for phone numbers in the area and will not affect existing phone numbers or local calls. We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about the 314 area code and its cities, towns, and communities.