949 area code
The 949 area code is a telephone area code that covers a significant portion of Orange County, California. It was created in 1998 as an overlay to the original 714 area code, in order to meet the increasing demand for telephone numbers in the area. The 949 area code serves cities and towns in southern Orange County, including major cities such as Irvine, Newport Beach, and Laguna Niguel.
The expansion of the 949 area code was necessary due to the rapid growth and development of Orange County. It is now home to almost 3.2 million people and is known for its affluent communities, top-ranking schools, and beautiful beaches. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the 949 area code, including its history, geography, demographics, and notable attractions.
History of the 949 Area Code
The history of the 949 area code begins with the original 714 code, which covered all of Orange County when it was first created in 1951. As the population of the county continued to grow, a new area code was introduced in 1982 – the 714 code was split into the 714 and 619 codes, with the 714 remaining for Orange County and the 619 covering San Diego County.
However, with the increasing popularity of cell phones and other telecommunication devices, the demand for telephone numbers in the area continued to rise. This led to the creation of the 949 overlay area code in 1998, which covers the southern portion of Orange County. The overlay code was implemented to eliminate the need for residents and businesses to change their phone numbers and to accommodate the growing population.
Counties that Use the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code primarily serves the southern portion of Orange County, including the cities of Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Mission Viejo. It also covers parts of the cities of Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Lake Forest. The 949 area code is bordered by the 714 area code to the north, the 909 area code to the east, and the 760 area code to the south.
Major Cities that Use the 949 Area Code
There are several major cities in southern Orange County that use the 949 area code, including:
- Irvine: Known for its well-planned layout, top-rated schools, and diverse community, Irvine is the largest city within the 949 area code. It is also home to several technology and biotech companies, making it a hub of innovation and economic growth.
- Newport Beach: Located along the Pacific coast, Newport Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, water activities, and upscale shopping and dining options.
- Laguna Niguel: This city is characterized by its rolling hills and beautiful parks, as well as being home to some of the most expensive real estate in the country. It is also known for its strong sense of community and quality of life for its residents.
- Mission Viejo: Founded as a master-planned community, Mission Viejo is known for its picturesque lake and outdoor recreation opportunities. It is also home to numerous shopping and dining options, as well as highly-rated schools.
All Cities & Towns that Use the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code covers a total of 23 cities and towns in southern Orange County. Apart from the major cities mentioned above, some of the other cities and towns that use the 949 area code include Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, and Rancho Santa Margarita.
To view a map of all the cities and towns within the 949 area code, visit the All Area Codes website.
Geography of the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code covers a land area of approximately 342 square miles. It is located in the southern coastal region of Orange County, between Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south. The terrain is mostly flat with some rolling hills, and the area is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The natural beauty of the region, with its beaches, parks, and canyons, makes it an attractive place to live and visit.
Climate of the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperature in the summer months ranges from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average winter temperature ranges from 50-60 degrees. The region receives an average of 15 inches of rainfall annually, with most of the precipitation occurring during the winter and early spring months. The temperate climate and abundant sunshine make it an ideal place for outdoor activities throughout the year.
Tourist Attractions in the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code is an ideal destination for tourists seeking a combination of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and fine dining and shopping opportunities. Some of the top attractions in the area include:
- Disneyland Resort: Located in Anaheim, just outside of the 949 area code, Disneyland is a must-see for any visitor to Orange County. The theme park features classic Disney rides, shows, and characters, as well as the newer California Adventure park.
- Crystal Cove State Park: With its stunning beachfront location and picturesque historic district, Crystal Cove State Park is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and beachcombing. It is also home to a variety of restaurants and small shops.
- Southern California beaches: The 949 area code is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California, including Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and whale watching.
- South Coast Plaza: This luxury shopping center is one of the largest malls in the United States and features designer stores, high-end restaurants, and a performing arts theater.
Education in the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code is home to some of the top-ranked schools in California, including public, private, and charter schools. According to the US News & World Report, the top-ranked high schools in the area include Laguna Beach High School, University High School in Irvine, and Corona Del Mar High School in Newport Mesa Unified School District.
The area is also home to several prestigious universities, including the University of California, Irvine; Chapman University; and California State University, Fullerton. These institutions offer a wide range of degree programs and contribute to the highly-educated population of the 949 area code.
Healthcare in the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code is fortunate to have some of the best healthcare facilities in Orange County. The four major hospitals in the area include Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach, Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, and St. Joseph Hospital in Orange. These facilities offer a range of medical services and are known for their quality of care and innovation.
Government and Administration in the 949 Area Code
The local government in the 949 area code is divided into several cities and towns, each with its own elected officials and city councils. Major cities such as Irvine, Newport Beach, and Laguna Niguel have their own city governments, with services including public safety, parks and recreation, and zoning and planning. The Orange County Board of Supervisors oversees the entire county, including the 949 area code, and is responsible for services such as public health, social services, and public works.
Area Codes and Zip Codes in the 949 Area Code
The 949 area code is not the only area code in Orange County – in addition to the 714 overlay code, the county also has the 657 and 949 overlay codes. However, all four area codes cover different portions of the county, with the 949 covering the southern area, and the others covering the central and northern areas.
The zip codes within the 949 area code are 92602, 92603, 92604, 92606, 92607, 92610, 92612, 92614, 92615, 92616, 92618, 92619, 92620, 92623, 92624, 92625, 92626, 92627, 92628, 92629, 92630, 92637, 92642, 92643, 92644, 92651, 92652, 92653, 92654, 92656, 92657, 92658, 92659, 92660, 92661, 92662, 92663, 92672, 92673, 92674, 92675, 92676, 92677, 92678, 92679, 92688, 92690, 92691, 92692, 92693, 92694, 92697, 92701, 92702, 92703, 92704, 92705, 92706, 92707, 92708, 92711, 92712, 92725, 92728, 92735, 92780, 92781, 92782, 92808, 92856, 92868, and 92886.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 949 Area Code
1. How do I know if I’m dialing a number within the 949 area code?
If you’re making a call within Orange County, you can assume that you’re dialing a number within the 949 area code. However, if you’re unsure, you can always check the area code by using an online search tool or by asking the person you’re calling for their area code.
2. Will I have to change my phone number if I live within the 949 area code?
No, if you are already living in the 949 area code, you will not have to change your phone number. The 949 overlay code was created to accommodate the growing population and to avoid the need for current residents to change their phone numbers.
3. What cities and towns are included in the 949 area code?
The 949 area code primarily serves cities and towns in southern Orange County, including Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Mission Viejo. A full list of the cities and towns within the 949 area code can be found on the All Area Codes website.
4. What is the cost of living in the 949 area code?
The 949 area code is known for its affluent communities and high cost of living. According to USA Today, the average home price in Orange County is $843,000, with the median household income