806 Area Code
The 806 area code is a telephone area that covers most of the Texas Panhandle and the South Plains region in the United States. It serves 26 counties in Texas, including parts of Lubbock, Amarillo, and Abilene. This area code was created in 1957 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) to meet the increasing demand for telephone numbers in this region. As of 2019, the “806” area code is home to approximately 1.6 million residents.
The Counties that Use the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code spans across 26 counties in Texas. These countries include:
- Armstrong County
- Bailey County
- Baylor County
- Briscoe County
- Childress County
- Cochran County
- Crosby County
- Dallam County
- Deaf Smith County
- Dickens County
- Floyd County
- Foard County
- Gaines County
- Garza County
- Gray County
- Hale County
- Hall County
- Hansford County
- Hartley County
- King County
- Lamb County
- Lipscomb County
- Lubbock County
- Lynn County
- Moore County
- Ochiltree County
- Parmer County
- Potter County
- Randall County
- Reagan County
- Roberts County
- Shackleford County
- Swisher County
- Terry County
- Wheeler County
- Winkler County
- Yoakum County
The largest city in the 806 area code is Lubbock, with a population of over 258,000. Other major cities include Amarillo, with a population of over 199,000, and Abilene, with a population of over 123,000. These three cities are also the primary economic and cultural hubs of the 806 area code.
All Cities and Towns that Use the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code has 304 cities and towns, with Lubbock, Amarillo, and Abilene being the largest. Some of the other cities and towns that use the 806 area code include:
- Anton
- Bula
- Canyon
- Dawn
- Earth
- Farnsworth
- Glazier
- Happy
- Idalou
- Jacksonville
- Kress
- Levelland
- Masterson
- Needmore
- Ochiltree
- Perryton
- Petersburg
- Quitaque
- Roosevelt
- Samnorwood
- Tahoka
- Umbarger
- Varna
- Wellington
- White Deer
- Yarboro
- Zita
The total population of the 806 area code is 1,615,077, spread out over its 1,060,296 land area.
Geography and Climate of the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code covers many of the High Plains of Texas, known for its expansive flatland and grassy prairies. The region is primarily agricultural, with cotton, corn, and wheat being the main crops grown. The area also has significant oil and natural gas reserves, contributing to its economic growth.
The climate in the 806 area code is semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in the summer months is in the mid to upper 90s, while the average low temperature in the winter months is in the mid to upper 20s. The area receives an average of 17 inches of precipitation annually, evenly distributed throughout the year.
Tourist Attractions in the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code has a variety of tourist attractions that showcase the area’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Some popular destinations include:
Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway
This state park is located near Quitaque and features scenic red rock canyons, flowing waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including bison, prairie dogs, and various bird species. The park also offers camping, picnicking, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities.
The Buddy Holly Center
Located in Lubbock, this museum celebrates the life and music of rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly, who was born and raised in the city. The center features a variety of exhibits and displays, including Holly’s personal artifacts, photographs, and other memorabilia.
Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Located in Amarillo, this 4-acre botanical garden features a variety of themed gardens, including a butterfly garden, a Japanese garden, and a rose garden. Visitors can also learn about the area’s native plants and trees in the Van Gorder Garden or enjoy a relaxing walk through the beautiful gardens.
Education in the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code is home to several colleges and universities, providing educational opportunities for its residents. Some of the notable institutions include:
Texas Tech University (TTU)
In Lubbock, TTU is a public research university known for its vital engineering, agriculture, and business academic programs. The university also has a vibrant campus life, with over 450 student organizations and a variety of sports teams.
West Texas A&M University (WTAMU)
Located in Canyon, WTAMU is a public university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including agriculture, education, and business. The university has a diverse student body and a solid commitment to student success.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC)
Also located in Lubbock, TTUHSC is a health sciences education and research institution offering medical, nursing, and pharmacy degrees. The university is dedicated to providing quality healthcare to the residents of the 806 area code and beyond.
Healthcare in the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code is served by several hospitals and healthcare facilities, ensuring that its residents have access to quality medical care. These include:
University Medical Center of Lubbock
This 412-bed academic medical center is the primary teaching hospital for TTUHSC and serves as a regional referral center for the entire West Texas area. The hospital offers specialized medical services, including trauma care, pediatric care, and cancer treatment.
Northwest Texas Healthcare System
Located in Amarillo, this healthcare system includes two hospitals and a variety of medical centers and clinics throughout the city. The system offers various medical services, including emergency care, cardiology, and neurosurgery.
Hendrick Medical Center
Located in Abilene, this 500-bed hospital is the largest healthcare provider in the area. The hospital offers comprehensive medical services, including heart and vascular care, cancer treatment, and women’s health services.
Government and Administration in the 806 Area Code
The 806 area code is divided into counties with local government and administration. The largest city in the area code, Lubbock, is governed by a mayor and city council, while all the other cities and towns are governed by a mayor and city council or a city manager.
Elected county commissioners also govern the 26 counties that comprise the 806 area code. The United States House of Representatives represents the area in the 13th and 19th districts. The 806 area code also has representation in the Texas State Legislature through multiple districts.
Area Codes and Zip Codes in the 806 Area Code
Along with the 806 area code, two other area codes serve parts of Texas – the 214 and 512 area codes. Some of the zip codes that fall within the 806 area code region include:
- 79007
- 79010
- 79012
- 79013
- 79014
- 79020
- 79022
- 79024
- 79026
- 79029
- 79034
- 79041
- 79042
- 79045
- 79052
- 79062
- 79068