985 Area Code
The 985 area code covers regions in southeastern Louisiana, specifically in the northern portions of the Greater New Orleans area. This code was established on September 11, 2001, as an overlay code for the existing “504” area code, and it serves a population of over 800,000 people.
The 985 area code is nestled between the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico, providing a mix of urban and rural environments. The region also boasts a diverse population and a rich history, making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. This guide will provide more detailed information on the “985” area code, including its city names, counties, major cities, population, geography, climate, tourist attractions, education, healthcare, government, and administration.
Area Code and Zip Code Basics
An area code is a three-digit code used to identify a specific geographic region for telephone services. It is typically combined with a seven-digit phone number to create a unique 10-digit one. Area codes were first introduced in the 1940s to increase the number of available phone numbers and make long-distance calling more efficient.
On the other hand, Zip codes are a series of five or nine numbers used to identify specific regions for mail delivery. They were first introduced in 1963 and have since become a standard part of mailing addresses. Zip codes are not tied to phone services like area codes. However, they are often correlated as they correspond to specific geographic regions.
The main zip codes used in the 985 area code are 70402, 70420, 70431, 70433, 70435, and 70448. Additionally, many other zip codes are used throughout the area that span multiple cities and towns.
City Names and Counties within the 985 Area Code
The “985” area code is primarily located in the St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes in Louisiana. The main cities within the area code include Covington, Hammond, Mandeville, and Slidell. Other towns and smaller cities that utilize the 985 area code include Abita Springs, Bush, Madisonville, Ponchatoula, and many more.
The St. Tammany Parish is situated on the northern shore of Lake Pontchartrain and is the largest parish in Louisiana, covering over 1,124 square miles. It is home to approximately 260,000 residents and has a mix of urban and rural areas. The parish is known for its cultural diversity, with a blend of Cajun, French, and Spanish influences.
The Tangipahoa Parish is located just east of the St. Tammany Parish and covers over 910 square miles. It is home to approximately 134,000 residents and is known for its agricultural production, including peaches, strawberries, and Christmas trees. The parish is also home to Southeastern Louisiana University, a major university in the 985 area code.
Major Cities in the 985 Area Code
Covington, located in St. Tammany Parish, is the largest city in the 985 area code, with over 10,000 residents. It is known for its historic downtown area, which features many restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. It is also home to the St. Tammany Art Association, which hosts numerous events and exhibits annually.
Hammond, located in Tangipahoa Parish, is the second-largest city in the “985” area code, with over 20,000 residents. It is home to Southeastern Louisiana University and is known for its vibrant arts and festival scene. The city also boasts many outdoor recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and fishing spots.
Mandeville, located in St. Tammany Parish, is a smaller city with just over 12,000 residents. It is situated along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain and is known for its beautiful waterfront area, which is lined with restaurants, marinas, and parks. The city also has a thriving art and music scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
Slidell, located in St. Tammany Parish, is a larger city with over 27,000 residents. It is situated along the northern shore of Lake Pontchartrain and is known for its historic downtown area and antique district. The city also has several parks and nature preserves, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
All Cities and Towns within the “985” Area Code
As previously mentioned, the “985” area code covers a large geographic region, with many cities and towns within its boundaries. In addition to the major cities mentioned above, other notable cities and towns within the area code include Lacombe, Tickfaw, Robert, Folsom, and Loranger.
The smaller towns within the area code each have unique charm and attractions. Lacombe, for example, is home to the Big Branch National Wildlife Refuge, a popular spot for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. Tickfaw is known for its annual festival dedicated to the sweet potato, and Robert is home to the Global Wildlife Center, where visitors can interact with free-roaming wild animals.
Folsom is a quaint, rural town known for its beautiful countryside and farms. It is also home to the Folsom Prison Museum, which showcases the history of the former Folsom Prison that operated in the town from 1880 to 1926. Loranger is another small town known for its agriculture, particularly strawberry production, which is celebrated yearly at the Loranger Strawberry Festival.
Geography and Climate of the “985” Area Code
The “985” area code is situated in the southeastern part of Louisiana, on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. The region is low-lying and mostly flat, with some hilly areas in the northern parts of St. Tammany Parish. The area is primarily covered in pine forests and marshlands, with a few swamp areas.
The “985” area code climate is considered subtropical, with long, hot, and humid summers and short, mild winters. The region experiences high humidity year-round, with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s in winter to the high 80s in summer. The area sees frequent rainfall, with the highest amounts falling during summer.
The low elevation and subtropical climate of the “985” area code make it susceptible to natural disasters like hurricanes and flooding. However, measures have been taken to improve infrastructure and prepare for potential disasters, making the region a relatively safe and appealing place to live.
Tourist Attractions in the “985” Area Code
The “985” area code is full of unique and exciting tourist attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors from all over the country. One of the most well-known attractions in the area is the Global Wildlife Center, located in Robert. Visitors can take a safari-style tour to see and interact with over 4,000 wild animals, including giraffes, zebras, and kangaroos.