316 Area Code
The 316 area code is a North American telephone area code used primarily in Kansas, with some small portions extending into Nebraska. The 316 code was created in 1969 as one of the original area codes assigned by the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA). It covers approximately 10,797 square miles and serves over 1.5 million people. This area code is bordered by the 785 area code (to the west), the 620 area code (to the south), and the 402 area code (to the north). Here is everything you need to know about the 316 area code.
Cities and Counties that Use the 316 Area Code
The 316 area code includes 17 counties in southern and central Kansas. These counties include Butler, Chautauqua, Cowley, Elk, Greenwood, Harvey, Kingman, McPherson, Marion, Pratt, Reno, Rice, Sedgwick, Stafford, Sumner, and most of Harvey County and Harper County. The counties of Butler, Sedgwick, and Reno are the most populous, with the city of Wichita (located in Sedgwick County) being the largest city in the area code.
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Major Cities that Use the 316 Area Code
The 316 area code covers many of the Wichita metropolitan area, including the cities of Wichita, Newton, El Dorado, Derby, Hutchinson, and Pratt. Wichita, also known as the Air Capital of the World, is the largest city in Kansas and serves as a hub for aviation and manufacturing industries. Its population is over 390,000 people and it is home to major companies such as Spirit AeroSystems, Cessna, and Textron Aviation.
Newton, located in Harvey County, is often called the “Hub of Harvey County” due to its central location and prime transportation services. El Dorado, known as the “Oil Capital of Kansas,” is famous for its oil production and refinery industries. Derby, located in Sedgwick County, is a fast-growing city with over 25,000 people.
It is known for its strong community and high-quality school district. Hutchinson, nicknamed “Hutch,” is home to the Kansas State Fair and is known for its agriculture, oil, and gas industries. Pratt, located in Pratt County, is a rich historical city and an important center for agriculture and manufacturing.
All Cities and Towns that Use the 316 Area Code
Besides the major cities, the 316 area code also includes numerous small towns and communities such as Andale, Bentley, Burrton, Cheney, Conway Springs, Douglass, Elbing, Moundridge, Mulvane, Potwin, St. Mark, and Yoder. These towns offer a more rural and small-town way of life, with close-knit communities and a relaxed pace. Many of these towns have strong agricultural roots and are home to family farms and ranches.
Geography and Climate
The 316 area code is located in central Kansas and covers a diverse landscape. The western portion of the area code is part of the Great Plains region, characterized by grasslands and rolling hills. The eastern part of the area code is located in the Flint Hills region, known for its rocky terrain and tall grass prairies. The Arkansas River, which runs through Wichita, is the major water source in the area code.
The climate in the 316 area code is classified as a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and moist, with temperatures reaching the high 90s and occasionally hitting triple digits. Winters are cold and dry, with occasional snowfall and temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring and fall seasons are mild and pleasant, making them the most popular times for outdoor activities.
Tourist Attractions
The 316 area code offers a wide range of tourist attractions for visitors of all ages. In Wichita, one can visit the Sedgwick County Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the country. Other popular destinations include the Botanica Wichita Gardens, the Exploration Place Science Center, and Old Cowtown Museum, a living history museum showcasing life in 1870s Wichita.
The Flint Hills region offers scenic hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts at places like the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and Konza Prairie Biological Station. Fishing and boating are popular at the Cheney Reservoir and El Dorado Lake. Culture lovers can enjoy the Wichita Symphony Orchestra, the Wichita Art Museum, and events like the Wichita Riverfest and the Kansas State Fair.
Education
The 316 area code is served by numerous public and private schools, including the Wichita Public School District, the largest in Kansas and one of the 50 largest in the country. Several colleges and universities are in the area code, including Wichita State University, Friends University, Butler Community College, and Hutchinson Community College. Wichita State University is known for its nationally-ranked engineering and business programs, while Butler Community College is known for its strong nursing program.
Healthcare in the 316 Area Code
The 316 area code has a robust healthcare system with several major hospitals, including Wesley Medical Center, Via Christi Hospital, and Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. These hospitals offer a wide range of services, from routine check-ups to specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and pediatrics. Numerous private practices and clinics throughout the area code provide residents with access to top-quality healthcare.
Government and Administration of the 316 Area Code
The 316 area code is located in Kansas, which operates under a democratic form of government. The state is divided into 105 counties, each with its government and administration. Wichita, located in Sedgwick County, has its mayor-council form of government. Important state and federal offices, including the Kansas State Capitol and the Federal Courthouse, are within the 316 area code.
Conclusion
The 316 area code is vital to Kansas, serving a diverse population and offering a wide range of opportunities for residents and visitors. With its bustling cities, scenic landscapes, and a strong sense of community, the 316 area code continues to attract people from all over the country. Hopefully, this guide has given you a better understanding of the area code and all it offers. Remember to check for any updates or changes in the future and keep exploring all the 316 area code has to offer.
FAQs
Q: Are there any zip codes in the 316 area code that do not begin with “316”?
A: Yes, a few zip codes within the 316 area code do not start with “316.” These include 67066 (Marion), 67042 (Elbing), 67101 (Maize), 67152 (Sedgwick), and 67230 (Andale). However, most of the zip codes in the 316 area code start with “316.”
Q: Has there been any proposed changes to the 316 area code?
A: As of now, there are no proposed changes to the 316 area code. However, with the increasing population and demand for phone numbers, the area code may eventually need to be split or overlaid with another area code. NANPA is responsible for monitoring the usage of area codes and making any necessary changes.
Q: How do I know if a phone number is in the 316 area code?
A: The easiest way to determine if a phone number is in the 316 area code is to look at the first three digits of the phone number. If the first three digits are 316-456, the phone number is in the 316 area code. You can also do a quick Google search for the area code by typing in the phone number and checking the results.
Q: Are there any special regulations or restrictions for phone numbers in the 316 area code?
A: No, there are no special regulations or restrictions for phone numbers in the 316 area code. All phone numbers are subject to the same rules and restrictions the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) set.
Q: Are there any upcoming events or festivals in the 316 area code?
A: Several events and festivals occur in the 316 area code throughout the year. Some popular ones include the Wichita Riverfest, the Kansas State Fair, and the Old Cowtown Ghost Tours. You can check the events calendar for specific dates and details.