The 661 area code is a vital part of the North American Numbering Plan, serving the southern and central regions of California, United States. It was created in 1999 as a split from the 805 area code, and since then, it has been providing telephone services to a vast area of the Golden State. In this article, we will delve into the details of the 661 area code, exploring its location, cities, and other essential information.
Location and City Information
The 661 area code is situated in the southern and central parts of California, covering a vast area of over 4,000 square miles. It serves several counties, including Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura, and parts of Santa Barbara. Some of the major cities within the 661 area code include:
- Bakersfield: Known as the "Oil Capital of California," Bakersfield is the largest city in the 661 area code, with a population of over 400,000 people.
- Lancaster: Located in Los Angeles County, Lancaster is a major city in the Antelope Valley region, with a population of over 150,000 people.
- Palmdale: Another city in Los Angeles County, Palmdale is a popular destination for aerospace and defense industries, with a population of over 150,000 people.
- Santa Clarita: A city in Los Angeles County, Santa Clarita is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful mountains and valleys, with a population of over 200,000 people.
- Oxnard: Located in Ventura County, Oxnard is a major agricultural producer, with a population of over 200,000 people.
History of the 661 Area Code
The 661 area code was created in 1999 as a split from the 805 area code. The 805 area code was serving the entire central coast of California, but due to the rapid growth of the region, it became necessary to create a new area code to meet the increasing demand for phone numbers. The 661 area code was officially put into service on February 13, 1999.
Cities and Zip Codes Served
The 661 area code serves a total of 34 cities and 23 zip codes. Here are some of the major cities and zip codes served by the 661 area code:
- Bakersfield: 93301, 93302, 93303, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93307, 93308, 93309, 93311, 93312, 93313, 93314
- Lancaster: 93534, 93535, 93536, 93539, 93543, 93551, 93552
- Palmdale: 93550, 93551, 93552
- Santa Clarita: 91350, 91351, 91352, 91353, 91354, 91355, 91356, 91387
- Oxnard: 93030, 93031, 93032, 93033, 93034, 93035
Dialing Pattern
The dialing pattern for the 661 area code is 10 digits, which includes the area code, prefix, and line number. For example, if you want to call a number in Bakersfield, you would dial 661-XXX-XXXX.
Weather and Climate
The 661 area code experiences a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The region receives most of its rainfall during the winter months, with an average annual rainfall of around 12 inches. The temperature ranges from the mid-40s in winter to the mid-90s in summer.
Economy and Industries
The 661 area code is home to a diverse range of industries, including:
- Agriculture: The region is a major producer of crops such as grapes, almonds, and avocados.
- Energy: The area is rich in oil and natural gas reserves, making it a hub for the energy industry.
- Aerospace: The region is home to several major aerospace companies, including Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.
- Healthcare: The area has several major hospitals and medical centers, including the Kern Medical Center and the Antelope Valley Hospital.
Education
The 661 area code is served by several major educational institutions, including:
- California State University, Bakersfield
- Antelope Valley College
- College of the Canyons
- University of La Verne
Points of Interest
The 661 area code is home to several popular tourist attractions, including:
- Lake Isabella: A popular destination for boating and fishing.
- Kern River: A scenic river that flows through the region, offering opportunities for rafting and kayaking.
- Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve: A nature reserve that is home to a stunning display of California poppies.
- Vasquez Rocks Natural Area: A unique rock formation that has been featured in several movies and TV shows.
Gallery of 661 Area Code
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 661 area code?
+The 661 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan, serving the southern and central regions of California, United States.
What cities are served by the 661 area code?
+The 661 area code serves several cities, including Bakersfield, Lancaster, Palmdale, Santa Clarita, and Oxnard.
What is the dialing pattern for the 661 area code?
+The dialing pattern for the 661 area code is 10 digits, which includes the area code, prefix, and line number.
In conclusion, the 661 area code is a vital part of the North American Numbering Plan, serving the southern and central regions of California. With its diverse economy, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, the region has become a popular destination for tourists and businesses alike. Whether you're looking to explore the scenic Kern River, visit the iconic Vasquez Rocks, or simply enjoy the warm California sunshine, the 661 area code has something for everyone.