515 area code

The 515 area code serves the central and west portions of the state of Iowa, including the cities of Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny. It was established in 1947 as one of the original area codes in the United States and has since grown to cover over 30 counties and 123 towns and cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ #1: What are the major cities that use the 515 area code?

The three major cities that use the 515 area code are Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny. Des Moines is the largest city in the state of Iowa and serves as its capital, while Ames is known for its prestigious Iowa State University. Ankeny is a rapidly growing city in the Des Moines metropolitan area.

FAQ #2: Which counties are included in the 515 area code?

The 515 area code covers over 30 counties in Iowa, including Polk, Story, Boone, Webster, Dallas, and Hardin. It also extends to portions of other counties such as Decatur, Humboldt, and Marshall. To see a complete list of counties, visit the All Area Codes website.

FAQ #3: What is the population of the 515 area code?

As of 2021, the estimated population of the 515 area code is over 1 million people. This makes it the second most populous area code in Iowa after the 319 area code, which serves the eastern part of the state.

FAQ #4: Does the 515 area code have any specific geography or climate?

The 515 area code covers a diverse range of geographies and climates, typical of the Midwestern United States. The central and west portions of the area code are mostly flat, with fertile farmlands and prairies. The eastern part is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, while the northwest portion is more rugged and hilly. The climate is generally humid continental, with hot summers and cold winters.

FAQ #5: How can I find a map of the 515 area code with all the cities and towns included?

To see a map of the 515 area code with all the cities and towns, you can visit the Area Code Help website. This interactive map allows you to click on each city and town to view more information, such as its population and zip code.

Cities and Towns in the 515 Area Code

The 515 area code covers over 123 cities and towns, including both large urban centers and small rural communities. Some notable cities and towns include:

• Des Moines: As the state capital and largest city, Des Moines is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich history and a bustling city center. It is home to many attractions, including the Des Moines Botanical Garden, Iowa State Capitol, and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.
• Ames: Located in Story County, Ames is known for its prestigious Iowa State University and its contributions to agriculture and technology. It has many attractions such as the Brunnier Art Museum, Reiman Gardens, and the Iowa State Center.
• Ankeny: A rapidly growing suburb of Des Moines, Ankeny offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. It is home to the popular Ankeny SummerFest festival and has several parks, trails, and recreational areas.
• Boone: Located in Boone County, this city is known for its railroad history and is home to the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum. It also has several parks and outdoor attractions, including the Ledges State Park.
• Webster City: This small city in Hamilton County is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Wilson Brewer Historic Park and the Hamilton County Courthouse. It also has several parks and recreational areas.

Tourist Attractions in the 515 Area Code

The 515 area code offers a wide range of tourist attractions for visitors to explore, from bustling city centers to scenic outdoor spaces. Some popular attractions include:

• Blank Park Zoo: Located in Des Moines, the Blank Park Zoo is home to over 800 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. It also has an aquarium and several educational programs.
• Iowa State Fair: Held annually in Des Moines, the Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and oldest state fairs in the country. It features various competitions, exhibits, rides, and food vendors, attracting over a million visitors each year.
• Reiman Gardens: Located in Ames, this 17-acre botanical garden is a popular tourist destination, featuring a variety of plants and flowers, as well as themed gardens, a butterfly wing, and a conservatory.
• Saylorville Lake: This reservoir near Des Moines offers various recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. It also has several beaches and picnic areas.
• Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum: Visitors can take a ride on this historic railroad in Boone and learn about its role in the city’s history. The train travels through scenic valleys, tunnels, and farmlands, offering stunning views of the surroundings.

Education in the 515 Area Code

The 515 area code is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Iowa State University, Drake University, and Des Moines University. These institutions offer a range of programs in various fields, such as agriculture, technology, medicine, law, and business.

In addition to higher education, the area code also has many public school districts for K-12 education. Some notable districts include Des Moines Public Schools, Ames Community School District, and Ankeny Community School District.

Healthcare in the 515 Area Code

The 515 area code has a range of healthcare facilities and services to serve its residents. Some notable hospitals in the area include the UnityPoint Health – Des Moines, Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, and MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. There are also several smaller community hospitals and clinics throughout the area code.

In addition to traditional healthcare, the area code also has a strong emphasis on health and wellness. There are several parks, trails, and recreational areas for outdoor activities, as well as fitness centers, wellness programs, and farmers’ markets promoting healthy living.

Government and Administration in the 515 Area Code

The 515 area code is part of the state of Iowa’s government and is represented by several state and federal officials. The state government is based in Des Moines and has a governor, two senators, and four representatives serving the state. There are also county governments serving the various counties within the 515 area code.

The City of Des Moines operates under a council-manager form of government, while other cities and towns in the area code may have different forms of government such as mayor-council or commission style. Each city and town has its own local government and administration, responsible for providing services and maintaining infrastructure within its boundaries.

Recent Changes and Updates in the 515 Area Code

In October 2018, the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) approved an overlay for the 515 area code, creating the 988 area code for the state of Iowa due to the increasing demand for phone numbers. This new area code will be introduced gradually and will not affect current phone numbers. It is estimated to be fully implemented in 2022.

Additionally, with the growth and development of the Des Moines metropolitan area, there have been changes in city boundaries and some minor shifts in area code coverage for certain cities and towns in the 515 area code. It is important for residents and businesses to stay informed of any potential changes to ensure a smooth transition.

Have More Questions?

If you have more questions about the 515 area code, feel free to contact your local phone carrier or visit the Iowa Utilities Board website for more information. You can also submit a question through the online form on the website and get a response from an official representative.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about the 515 area code, its cities and towns, and its many amenities and attractions. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, we invite you to explore and enjoy all that this area code has to offer.