603 area code
The 603 area code is a telephone area code that covers the entire state of New Hampshire, which is located in the northeastern region of the United States. It was one of the original area codes established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which divided the United States and Canada into several geographic numbering plan areas. The 603 area code is the only area code serving New Hampshire, and it is currently the 4th smallest state in terms of population in the US.
The use of area codes has become necessary due to the increased demand for telephone services and the limited availability of 7-digit phone numbers. With the exponential growth of technology and the popularity of smartphones, the need for area codes has become even more important. The 603 area code has a rich history and plays a significant role in shaping the state of New Hampshire. In this article, we will explore the cities and towns that use the 603 area code, its demographics, geography, climate, and other essential information.
FAQs
1.
What cities in New Hampshire use the 603 area code?
All the cities and towns in the state of New Hampshire use the 603 area code. Some of the major cities that use the 603 area code include Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Portsmouth, Derry, Dover, Rochester, Salem, and Keene. These cities are home to some of the state’s largest population and serve as regional hubs for commerce and trade. The 603 area code also extends to smaller towns and rural areas, covering the entire state of New Hampshire.
2.
Which county uses the 603 area code?
The 603 area code covers the entire state of New Hampshire, which consists of 10 counties, namely Belknap, Carroll, Cheshire, Coos, Grafton, Hillsborough, Merrimack, Rockingham, Strafford, and Sullivan. Therefore, all the counties in New Hampshire use the 603 area code. This simplifies the dialing process for both in-state and out-of-state calls.
3.
What are the major cities in New Hampshire that use the 603 area code?
The largest city in New Hampshire that uses the 603 area code is Manchester, with a population of over 112,000 people. Manchester is known as the business capital of New Hampshire, with a thriving economy and numerous cultural attractions. Other major cities in New Hampshire that use the 603 area code include Nashua, Concord, Portsmouth, Derry, and Dover.
4.
What are the geographical features of the 603 area code?
The 603 area code is located in the northeastern region of the United States, covering the entire state of New Hampshire. The state is bordered by the Canadian province of Quebec to the north, Maine to the east, Vermont to the west, and Massachusetts to the south. The state’s geography is characterized by mountains, lakes, and rivers, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
5.
What is the climate like in the 603 area code?
The 603 area code has a humid continental climate, which means the winters are cold and snowy, and the summers are warm and humid. The state’s location in the northeastern region of the US makes it susceptible to extreme weather conditions such as blizzards, hurricanes, and thunderstorms. The most comfortable time to visit the state is during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a popular tourist destination.
Demographics
The 603 area code has a total population of over 1.3 million people, making it the 4th smallest state in the US in terms of population. The state has a mostly white population, with around 90% of its residents identifying as Caucasian. The Hispanic or Latino population is the largest minority group in New Hampshire, accounting for just under 3% of the state’s total population.
The median household income in the state of New Hampshire is $73,381, which is higher than the national average of $68,703. The cost of living in New Hampshire is also higher than the national average, with housing being the most significant expense. However, the state has a low poverty rate of 7.3%, which is lower than the national average of 9.2%.
Tourist Attractions
New Hampshire is known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities, making it a popular tourist destination. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in the state include:
- Mount Washington: This mountain is the highest peak in the northeastern United States and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
- Franconia Notch State Park: Located in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, this state park is famous for its scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain views.
- Hampton Beach: This beach town on the Atlantic coast is a popular summer destination, known for its beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and seafood restaurants.
- Strawbery Banke Museum: This living history museum in Portsmouth showcases life in New Hampshire from the 1600s to the 1950s.
- Squam Lake: This lake in central New Hampshire is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Education
New Hampshire takes pride in its education system, with numerous prestigious institutions of higher learning located in the state. Some of the top-ranked universities and colleges in New Hampshire include Dartmouth College, the University of New Hampshire, and Southern New Hampshire University. The state also has a robust K-12 education system, with a high school graduation rate of 89.7%, slightly higher than the national average of 86.6%.
Healthcare
The 603 area code has a strong healthcare system, with several top-ranked hospitals and medical centers located in the state. Some of the top hospitals in New Hampshire include Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Portsmouth Regional Hospital, and Concord Hospital. The state also has a high rate of health insurance coverage, with over 93% of its residents having some form of health insurance.
Government and Administration
New Hampshire has a state government that operates under a constitutional republic system, with a governor as the chief executive. The current governor of New Hampshire is Chris Sununu, a Republican. The state also has a bicameral legislature, with a House of Representatives and a Senate. New Hampshire has four electoral votes in presidential elections, and it has voted Democrat in every election since 1992.
The state government is responsible for overseeing various services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety. The state also has a robust local government, with each of its 10 counties having its own government and administration. New Hampshire has a reputation for having a low level of corruption and ranked 5th in the US in the 2019 Corruption Perceptions Index.
Area Codes and Zip Codes in the 603 area code
The 603 area code covers the entire state of New Hampshire, with over 300 zip codes assigned to it. The most populous cities in the state have their own zip codes, while smaller towns and rural areas may share a zip code with surrounding areas. Some of the largest cities and their zip codes include Manchester (03109), Nashua (03064), Concord (03301), Portsmouth (03801), and Keene (03431). It is essential to have the correct area code and zip code when making calls or sending mail to ensure it reaches the intended recipient.
Recent Changes and Updates
As of now, there have been no recent changes or updates to the 603 area code. However, given the increase in demand for telephone services and the limited availability of phone numbers, it is possible that the state of New Hampshire may need to add a new area code in the future. This would require the implementation of new dialing procedures, such as mandatory 10-digit dialing for all local calls. It is always essential to stay updated on any changes in area codes to avoid any issues with calls or other services.
Q&A
Do you have any questions about the 603 area code? Here are some common inquiries and their answers:
Q: Can I keep my phone number if I move to a city or town with a different area code within New Hampshire?
A: Yes, you can keep your phone number if you move to a different city or town within the state of New Hampshire. The 603 area code covers the entire state, so you will not have to change your phone number.
Q: Can I still make calls within the state if I only dial 7 digits?
A: No, you will need to dial the full 10-digit number, including the area code, for all local calls within the state of New Hampshire. This is necessary to avoid confusion and ensure that calls can be completed successfully.
Q: Does the 603 area code cover the entire state of New Hampshire?
A: Yes, the 603 area code covers the entire state of New Hampshire, including all cities and towns in the state.
Q: Are there any plans to add another area code to New Hampshire?
A: There are currently no plans to add another area code to New Hampshire. However, this may change in the future due to the increasing demand for phone numbers and the limited availability of the 603 area code.
Q: Can I make international calls using the 603 area code?
A: Yes, you can make international calls using the 603 area code. However, you will need to add the country code and area code of the destination country before the local phone number. This can vary depending on the country you are calling.
Conclusion
The 603 area code is an essential part of the state of New Hampshire and plays a significant role in its communication systems and infrastructure. It covers the entire state, including all cities and towns, and has been in use since 1947. With its lush green landscapes, historical attractions, and strong economy, New Hampshire is a unique state with a lot to offer. Whether you are a resident of New Hampshire or planning a visit, it is essential to understand and stay updated on the area code and other vital information to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.