713 area code

The 713 area code is a telephone area code that covers a large portion of southeastern Texas, including the city of Houston and its surrounding areas. This area code is unique as it is one of the first three original area codes created in 1947, along with 212 and 312. Over the years, the 713 area code has undergone changes that have led to the creation of new codes such as 281, 832, and 346, but it still holds significance as the first area code for the bustling city of Houston. In this guide, we will dive into the details of the 713 area code, its cities and towns, geography, climate, key attractions, education, healthcare, government, and administration.

History of the 713 Area Code

The first area code system was established in 1947 by AT&T and the Bell System, with the purpose of simplifying long distance calling within the United States. The 713 area code was one of the three original area codes in New York, Chicago, and Houston. It encompassed the entirety of southeastern Texas, plus a portion of the Gulf of Mexico. Over the years, the 713 area code was split into several other codes, such as 512 in 1952, 817 in 1953, 915 in 1957, and more recently, 281 in 1996, 832 in 1999, and 346 in 2014.

In the 1990s, the Houston Metro area experienced a major growth in population, which led to an increase in the demand for telephone numbers. As a result, the 713 area code was split into three different codes – 832 for mobile phones, 281 for the northern parts of Houston, and the original 713 area code for central Houston. In 1999, the rural areas surrounding Houston were assigned the new 979 area code, and in 2014, as the demand for more numbers continued to rise, the 713 area code was split again into 713, 281, and 346, serving the counties of Harris, Fort Bend, Waller, Montgomery, and a small portion of Brazoria.

Despite these changes, the 713 area code still serves as the main area code for the city of Houston and its surrounding areas. As one of the largest and most populous cities in the United States, Houston has become a major economic and cultural hub, attracting visitors and residents from all over the world.

Counties that Use the 713 Area Code

The 713 area code covers a total of five counties in southeastern Texas – Harris, Fort Bend, Waller, Montgomery, and a small portion of Brazoria. These counties are home to various cities and towns that are connected by the 713 area code. Let’s take a closer look at these counties and the cities and towns within them.

1. Harris County

Harris County is the most populous county in Texas and the third-most populous county in the United States, with a diverse population of over 4.7 million people. The county is located in the southeastern part of Texas, bordering the Gulf of Mexico. Houston, the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest city in the United States, is located within Harris County, and is the most populous city served by the 713 area code.

Besides Houston, Harris County is also home to other major cities and towns such as Pasadena, Baytown, and one of the oldest communities in Texas, Deer Park. It is also known for its extensive outdoor recreational areas, including parks, gardens, and nature reserves, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

2. Fort Bend County

Fort Bend County is located in the southeastern corner of Texas, bordering Harris County and the Gulf of Mexico. It is named after the historic Fort Bend that was established in the 19th century by the US Army to help protect settlers from Native American attacks. The county is home to over 811,900 people, and its county seat is the city of Richmond, an affluent and growing community that is also among the fastest-growing cities in the United States.

Other cities and towns within Fort Bend County include Missouri City, Sugar Land, Stafford, and Rosenberg. The county is known for its diverse economy, which includes industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. It is also home to a variety of cultural and historical attractions, such as the George Ranch Historical Park and the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land.

3. Waller County

Waller County is located in southeastern Texas, north of Fort Bend County and east of Austin County. It is one of the smallest counties in Texas, with a population of over 52,800 people. Its county seat is the city of Hempstead, and other notable cities and towns include Prairie View and Brookshire.

Waller County is primarily known for its agricultural industry, with crops such as cotton, rice, and corn being its main products. The county also has a significant presence in the education sector, with Prairie View A&M University, one of the oldest historically black universities in the United States, located within its borders.

4. Montgomery County

Located in the northern region of Houston, Montgomery County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States, with a population of over 607,400 people. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including lakes, forests, and rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The county seat is the city of Conroe, which is also the fourth-largest city in the Houston metro area. Other notable cities and towns include The Woodlands, a master-planned community known for its upscale living and top-rated schools, and the city of Montgomery, which is the birthplace of the Lone Star Flag, the official flag of the state of Texas.

5. Brazoria County

Finally, Brazoria County is the southernmost county in the Houston metro area, bordering the Gulf of Mexico. With a population of over 370,600 people, it is home to cities and towns such as Pearland, Alvin, and Angleton. Brazoria County is known for its diversity, affordable housing, and strong economy, with industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and petrochemical production playing a major role.

Major Cities that Use the 713 Area Code

As mentioned earlier, the 713 area code serves a large portion of southeastern Texas, including the city of Houston and its surrounding areas. In this section, we will explore the major cities that use the 713 area code and some interesting facts about each of them.

Houston

As the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston needs no introduction. It is a global city, known for its diverse population, thriving economy, and world-class attractions. Houston is also home to the fourth-largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies in the country, making it a major business center.

The city is known for its extensive arts and culture scene, with notable museums, theaters, and galleries such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Menil Collection. It is also home to some of the best universities in the country, including the University of Houston, Rice University, and Texas Southern University.

Pasadena

Pasadena, located within Harris County, is the second-largest city served by the 713 area code, with a population of over 153,800 people. It is home to various industries such as petrochemicals, healthcare, and education. Pasadena is also known for its annual Strawberry Festival, held each September, celebrating the city’s rich agricultural history.

Baytown

Baytown is a city located east of Houston, along the Gulf Coast. With a population of over 77,200 people, it is one of the largest cities in Harris County. The city is known for its refineries and oil and gas production facilities, making it a major contributor to the country’s economy. Baytown also offers various recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Missouri City

Missouri City is a city located in Fort Bend County, just south of the city of Houston. It has a population of over 76,600 people and is known for its charming residential neighborhoods and strong economy. Missouri City is home to the Fort Bend ISD Stadium, which is the largest high school sports stadium in Texas.

Sugar Land

Located just southwest of Houston, Sugar Land is a city with a population of over 118,600 people. It is known for its affluent neighborhoods and strong economy, with major employers such as Schlumberger, Minute Maid, and Fluor Corporation. Sugar Land is also home to various cultural attractions such as the Sugar Land Town Square and the Smart Financial Centre, a popular concert venue.

Stafford

The city of Stafford is located in Fort Bend County, just southwest of Houston. It has a population of over 17,400 people and is known for its diverse community, with residents from over 50 countries. Stafford is also home to the Stafford Centre, a popular entertainment venue that hosts various events and concerts throughout the year.

Rosenberg

Rosenberg is a city located in Fort Bend County and is home to over 37,800 people. It is known for its affordable housing options, strong economy, and rich history, dating back to the 1800s. Rosenberg is also home to the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, a popular attraction for train enthusiasts.

The Woodlands

The Woodlands is a master-planned community located in Montgomery County, north of Houston. It is home to over 116,200 people and is known for its upscale living, top-rated schools, and extensive outdoor recreational opportunities. The Woodlands is also home to various major employers such as ExxonMobil, Chevron Phillips Chemical, and McKesson Corporation.

Angleton

Angleton is a city located in Brazoria County, with a population of over 19,500 people. It is known for its small-town charm, affordable housing, and strong community spirit. Angleton is also home to the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge, a popular destination for nature lovers.

Brookshire

Brookshire is a city located in Waller County, with a population of over 5,700 people. It is known for its growing economy, with industrial parks such as the Katy Prairie Business Park and the Brookshire Industrial Park. The city is also known for its annual Brookshire-Katy-Simonton CountryFest, a family-friendly festival that offers live music, food, and other entertainment.

All Cities & Towns that Use the 713 Area Code

In addition to the major cities mentioned above, the following is a comprehensive list of all cities and towns that use the 713 area code:

Harris County:

Houston, Bellaire, Deer Park, Galena Park, Humble, Jacinto City, Jersey Village, Katy, La Porte, Pasadena, South Houston, Tomball, Webster

Fort Bend County:

Katy, Meadows Place, Missouri City, Needville, Richmond, Rosenberg, Stafford

Waller County:

Brook