507 area code
The 507 area code is a telephone area code that serves the southern portion of the state of Minnesota. It covers several cities and counties, making it a significant part of Minnesota’s economic, cultural, and social landscape. The history of the 507 area code could be traced back to when North American Numbering Plan (NANP) was created in 1947. Since then, the boundaries of the area code have undergone several changes, but it has consistently served the southern region of Minnesota. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the 507 area code, including its cities, counties, population, geography, climate, tourism, education, healthcare, and government. We will also address some frequently asked questions to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this area code.
Cities and Counties that Use the 507 Area Code
The 507 area code serves the southern region of Minnesota and covers several cities and counties. Here are the major cities and counties that use the 507 area code:
Major Cities:
1. Rochester – By far the largest city in the 507 area code, Rochester is home to over 116,000 residents. It is located in Olmsted County and serves as the county seat. Rochester is best known as the home of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, one of the country’s largest healthcare institutions.
2. Mankato – Located in Blue Earth County, Mankato is the fourth-largest city in the area code. It has a population of over 43,000 and is home to the main campus of Minnesota State University.
3. Owatonna – Owatonna is the county seat of Steele County and has a population of almost 26,000. It is known for its historic downtown area, beautiful parks, and the Owatonna Arts Center.
4. Austin – Located in Mower County, Austin is home to over 24,000 residents. It is known as the birthplace of Hormel Foods and is home to the Spam Museum, a popular tourist attraction.
5. Albert Lea – Situated in Freeborn County, Albert Lea has a population of almost 17,000. It is known for its scenic lakes and parks, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Other cities that use the 507 area code include:
1. Faribault – Rice County
2. New Ulm – Brown County
3. Northfield – Rice County
4. Hutchinson – McLeod County
5. Marshall – Lyon County
6. Redwood Falls – Redwood County
Counties:
The 507 area code covers a total of 25 counties in southern Minnesota. Some of the major counties are listed below:
1. Olmsted County – Population: 151,036
2. Blue Earth County – Population: 68,073
3. Steele County – Population: 36,207
4. Mower County – Population: 39,163
5. Freeborn County – Population: 30,661
6. Brown County – Population: 25,321
All Cities and Towns that Use the 507 Area Code
The 507 area code covers a vast area, and there are over 300 cities and towns that use this area code. Some of the notable ones, along with their population, are listed below:
1. Rochester – Population: 116,961
2. Mankato – Population: 43,833
3. Owatonna – Population: 25,599
4. Austin – Population: 24,563
5. Northfield – Population: 20,390
6. Albert Lea – Population: 16,461
7. New Ulm – Population: 13,522
8. Faribault – Population: 23,650
9. Hutchinson – Population: 13,993
10. Marshall – Population: 13,680
For a complete list of all the cities and towns in the 507 area code, you can visit the Area Code Help website.
Map of the 507 Area Code and its Population
To have a better understanding of the geographic scope and population of the 507 area code, let’s take a look at the map below:
As you can see, the 507 area code covers a large portion of southern Minnesota, including the major cities mentioned earlier. According to recent estimates, the total population of this area code is over 700,000, with Rochester being the most populous city. The 507 area code also has a diverse demographic, with a mix of urban and rural communities.
Geography and Climate of the 507 Area Code
The southern region of Minnesota, served by the 507 area code, is known for its scenic landscapes, including rolling hills, lakes, and rivers. It is also home to the beautiful Mississippi River, which forms the eastern border of the area code. Some of the major geographic features in this area include the Minnesota River Valley, the Mississippi River Valley, and the Big Woods region.
The 507 area code has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70-80°F. Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures of around 10-20°F. The area also experiences severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes, during the summer months. However, the beautiful natural landscapes and changing seasons make the 507 area code an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tourist Attractions in the 507 Area Code
The 507 area code is home to many popular tourist attractions, offering something for everyone. From scenic parks to museums, here are some of the must-visit places in this area code:
1. The Mayo Clinic – Located in Rochester, the Mayo Clinic is a world-renowned healthcare institution that attracts visitors from all over the world. It also has a museum dedicated to the clinic’s history, making it a popular tourist spot.
2. Spam Museum – For all the Spam lovers out there, a visit to this museum located in Austin is highly recommended. It is a fun and interactive experience that offers a glimpse into the history and production of the famous canned meat.
3. Minneopa State Park – This beautiful state park in Mankato is a great place to experience nature and wildlife. It also has the beautiful Minneopa Falls, which is a popular spot for hiking and photography.
4. Riverfront Park – Located in Northfield, this park offers stunning views of the Cannon River and is a favorite spot for picnics, kayaking, and other recreational activities.
Education, Healthcare, Government, and Administration in the 507 Area Code
The 507 area code is known for its strong education system, with several prestigious universities and colleges located in the cities within its boundaries. These include Minnesota State University, Rochester Community and Technical College, and the University of Minnesota, Rochester. The area is also home to several excellent public and private schools, making it an ideal location for families.
The healthcare sector is also a significant part of the 507 area code, with the world-renowned Mayo Clinic located in Rochester and several community hospitals in other cities. The healthcare industry provides a substantial number of jobs in this area code, making it a vital sector for economic growth.
The government and administration of the 507 area code are primarily handled at the county level, with each county having an elected board of commissioners to oversee local affairs. The cities within the area code also have their own local government and administration, with a mayor, city council, and other elected officials responsible for city operations and services.
FAQs about the 507 Area Code
1. What area does the 507 area code cover?
The 507 area code serves the southern region of the state of Minnesota, including over 300 cities and towns.
2. Is the 507 area code rural or urban?
The 507 area code has a mix of urban and rural areas, with the major cities serving as economic and cultural hubs.
3. When was the 507 area code established?
The 507 area code was established in the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) in 1947.
4. Are there plans to change the 507 area code in the future?
Currently, there are no plans to change the 507 area code. However, as the population and demand for telephone numbers grow, it is possible that new area codes will be added in the future to accommodate the increasing need for phone numbers.
5. Can I keep my current phone number if I move to a different city or county within the 507 area code?
Yes, you can keep your phone number if you move within the 507 area code. However, if you move to a different area code, you will need to get a new phone number with that area code.
In Conclusion
The 507 area code is an essential part of southern Minnesota, serving as the telephone highway for over 700,000 residents. It covers a vast area with diverse demographics, scenic landscapes, and significant economic and cultural hubs. Its major cities, including Rochester, Mankato, and Owatonna, offer a plethora of tourist attractions, excellent education and healthcare facilities, and robust government and administration. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, the 507 area code has much to offer and is a vital part of Minnesota’s identity and growth.