601 area code
The 601 area code is a North American telephone area code which serves central and southern Mississippi. It was created in 1997, when the state’s original area code, 601, was split into two separate codes: 601 and 228. The 601 area code covers an area of 23 counties, including parts of Hinds, Harrison, and Forrest counties. It is a bustling and diverse region, with many cities and towns that thrive with culture, industry, and natural beauty.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 601 area code in more detail, providing you with useful information about the cities, counties, geography, weather, population, education, healthcare, and government of this area. We’ll also take a closer look at the zip codes that fall under the 601 area code, and answer some frequently asked questions related to this region. Whether you’re a resident, visitor, or interested in learning more about the 601 area code, this guide has got you covered.
Area Code Cities & Towns
The 601 area code is home to a variety of cities and towns, each with its own unique charm and character. Some of the major cities that are included in the 601 area code are:
– Jackson: This capital and largest city in Mississippi is situated in Hinds County and serves as a major economic, cultural, and educational center for the state.
– Meridian: Located in Lauderdale County, Meridian is a historic city known for its music, arts, and entertainment scene.
– Hattiesburg: This city is located in Forrest County and is home to the University of Southern Mississippi, making it a hub for education and research.
– Clinton: This city in Hinds County is known for its small-town charm and warm community.
Aside from these major cities, there are also many smaller towns and communities within the 601 area code, such as Brandon, Laurel, Vicksburg, and Natchez. These towns offer a slower pace of life, with a strong emphasis on family and community values.
Counties within the 601 Area Code
The 601 area code covers 23 counties in central and southern Mississippi. These counties include:
– Adams
– Attala
– Copiah
– Covington
– Forrest
– George
– Greene
– Hinds
– Holmes
– Jasper
– Jefferson Davis
– Jones
– Kemper
– Lamar
– Lauderdale
– Leake
– Lincoln
– Madison
– Marion
– Newton
– Noxubee
– Pike
– Rankin
– Scott
– Simpson
– Smith
– Winston
Each county has its own unique history, culture, and attractions, making the 601 area code a diverse and fascinating region to explore.
Major Cities in the 601 Area Code
Jackson:
As the state capital, Jackson is a bustling city with a population of over 165,000. In addition to being a major center for government and business, Jackson is also known for its rich cultural and arts scene. The city is home to many museums, art galleries, and theaters, including the Mississippi Arts Center and the Mississippi Children’s Museum. Jackson is also known for its delicious food, with many restaurants offering classic Southern dishes such as fried chicken, catfish, and barbeque.
Meridian:
With a population of over 41,000, Meridian is the sixth largest city in Mississippi. It has a rich history, as it served as a strategic location during the Civil War, and is home to many historic sites and landmarks. Meridian is also known for being a hub for music and the arts, with the historic Riley Center hosting concerts, plays, and exhibitions throughout the year. Additionally, Meridian is home to the Freedom Trail, a series of historical sites that tells the story of the city’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Hattiesburg:
Hattiesburg is a growing city with a population of over 46,000. It is home to the University of Southern Mississippi, which has a diverse student body and offers a variety of highly-ranked academic programs. The city is also known for its strong healthcare industry, as it is home to several hospitals and medical centers. Hattiesburg is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with many parks, nature trails, and camping grounds nearby.
Clinton:
Located in Hinds County, Clinton is a charming city with a population of over 25,000. It is known for its strong sense of community and southern hospitality. The city is home to many locally-owned businesses and restaurants, and hosts several events and festivals throughout the year. Clinton is also a great place for families, as it offers safe and affordable neighborhoods, excellent schools, and plenty of recreational activities for all ages.
All Cities & Towns within the 601 Area Code: Map & Population
While we have touched on some of the major cities within the 601 area code, there are also many smaller towns and communities that are worth exploring. Below is a map of the 601 area code, as well as the population of each city or town within it:
As you can see, the 601 area code covers a large area of central and southern Mississippi, including major cities, smaller towns, and rural communities. With a population of over 1.3 million, this region is home to a diverse and thriving population.
Geography & Climate
The 601 area code encompasses a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills and forests in the north to flatlands and marshes in the south. The region is also bordered by the Mississippi River to the west and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. This diverse geography makes for a unique climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer ranges from 80-90°F, while in the winter it typically stays between 40-60°F. The 601 area code also experiences a good amount of rainfall throughout the year, making it a green and lush region.
Tourist Attractions
The 601 area code is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, with a variety of attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the top tourist spots in the area:
– Vicksburg National Military Park: This historic park preserves the site of the Civil War Battle of Vicksburg and features a museum and over 1,300 monuments and markers.
– Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic drive stretches over 444 miles, connecting Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. It is known for its beautiful views of forests, rivers, and historical sites.
– Gulf Islands National Seashore: Located along the Gulf Coast, this national park includes barrier islands, beaches, and historic forts. It is a great spot for camping, hiking, and fishing.
– Turtle Creek Mall: This shopping mall in Hattiesburg offers a variety of stores and restaurants, as well as a movie theater and entertainment center.
– Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum: Situated in Jackson, this museum showcases Mississippi’s rich agricultural and forestry history through exhibits and demonstrations.
Education & Healthcare
The 601 area code is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg and Jackson State University in Jackson. These universities offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students, and contribute significantly to the economic and cultural growth of the region.
In terms of healthcare, the 601 area code has a well-developed network of hospitals, medical centers, and clinics that provide comprehensive and quality care to its residents. Some of the top healthcare facilities in this area include St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg, and Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson.
Local Government & Administration
The 601 area code is governed by various local governments, including county boards of supervisors, city councils, and school boards. The largest city, Jackson, has a mayor-council form of government, where the mayor and city council are responsible for setting policies and making decisions for the city. Other cities in the 601 area code have similar forms of government.
The county governments in the 601 area code oversee services such as law enforcement, public works, and public health. They are also responsible for collecting and distributing taxes and managing budgets for their respective counties.
Zip Codes in the 601 Area Code
There are many zip codes that fall under the 601 area code, each serving a specific city or town. Here is a list of the zip codes and their corresponding cities and towns within the 601 area code:
– 39042: Brandon
– 39047: Brandon
– 39056: Clinton
– 39058: Hazlehurst
– 39059: Crystal Springs
– 39071: Flora
– 39073: Florence
– 39083: Flowood
– 39110: Madison
– 39130: Mccomb
– 39154: Raymond
– 39167: Star
– 39180: Vicksburg
– 39194: Yazoo City
– 39201: Jackson
– 39202: Jackson
– 39203: Jackson
– 39204: Jackson
– 39205: Jackson
– 39206: Jackson
– 39208: Pearl
– 39209: Jackson
– 39213: Jackson
– 39216: Jackson
– 39225: Jackson
– 39232: Richland
– 39272: Byram
– 39282: Jackson
Note: This is not an exhaustive list and there may be some variations or changes in zip codes within the 601 area code. It is always best to check with the United States Postal Service for the most up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the history of the 601 area code?
A: The 601 area code was created in 1997 when the original area code for Mississippi, 601, was split into two separate codes: 601 and 228. This was done to accommodate the growing population and demand for phone numbers in the state.
Q: What are some popular attractions in the 601 area code?
A: Some of the top tourist spots in the 601 area code include Vicksburg National Military Park, Natchez Trace Parkway, and Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Q: What is the largest city in the 601 area code?
A: The largest city in the 601 area code is Jackson, with a population of over 165,000.
Q: What states are closer to the 601 area code?
A: The 601 area code is situated in central and southern Mississippi. It is bordered by the 769 and 662 area codes to the west, the 318 area code in Louisiana to the south, the 662 area code to the east, and the 225 and 985 area codes in Louisiana to the south.
Q: What industries drive the economy in the 601 area code?
A: The economy in the 601 area code is diversified, with strong industries in education, healthcare, tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.