Bakersfield, California, is a city with a rich history and a blend of urban and rural landscapes. Located in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, Bakersfield is known for its vibrant culture, diverse community, and exciting attractions. When it comes to communication, having the right area code is essential for residents and businesses alike. In this article, we will delve into the world of Bakersfield area codes, exploring the different codes, their history, and how to use them effectively.
Understanding Area Codes
Before we dive into the specifics of Bakersfield area codes, it's essential to understand what area codes are and how they work. Area codes are three-digit codes that are used to identify specific geographic regions within the United States. They were first introduced in the 1940s as a way to simplify long-distance calling and have since become an integral part of the telephone system.
Bakersfield Area Code History
Bakersfield's original area code was 213, which was one of the first area codes assigned in California. However, as the city grew and the population increased, the need for additional area codes arose. In 1957, the 805 area code was introduced, serving the central coast of California, including Bakersfield. Later, in 1999, the 661 area code was created as an overlay to the 805 area code, providing additional phone number capacity to the region.
Current Bakersfield Area Codes
Today, Bakersfield is served by two area codes: 661 and 805. The 661 area code is the primary code for the city, while the 805 area code is used for some surrounding areas.
- 661 Area Code: This area code serves the city of Bakersfield and surrounding areas, including Kern County.
- 805 Area Code: This area code serves the central coast of California, including parts of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.
Using Bakersfield Area Codes
When making a call to Bakersfield, it's essential to use the correct area code to ensure that your call is connected correctly. Here are some tips for using Bakersfield area codes:
- Local Calls: When making a local call within Bakersfield, you only need to dial the seven-digit phone number.
- Long-Distance Calls: When making a long-distance call to Bakersfield, you need to dial the area code (661 or 805) followed by the seven-digit phone number.
- Toll-Free Calls: Toll-free calls do not require an area code. Simply dial the toll-free number, and you will be connected to the desired party.
Common Bakersfield Area Code Questions
Here are some common questions about Bakersfield area codes:
- What is the area code for Bakersfield, CA?: The primary area code for Bakersfield is 661. However, some surrounding areas use the 805 area code.
- How do I make a call to Bakersfield?: To make a call to Bakersfield, dial the area code (661 or 805) followed by the seven-digit phone number.
- Are there any other area codes in Bakersfield?: Yes, the 805 area code serves some surrounding areas in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.
Gallery of Bakersfield Area Code Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the area code for Bakersfield, CA?
+The primary area code for Bakersfield is 661. However, some surrounding areas use the 805 area code.
How do I make a call to Bakersfield?
+To make a call to Bakersfield, dial the area code (661 or 805) followed by the seven-digit phone number.
Are there any other area codes in Bakersfield?
+Yes, the 805 area code serves some surrounding areas in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.
In conclusion, understanding Bakersfield area codes is essential for effective communication. By knowing the different area codes, their history, and how to use them, you can ensure that your calls are connected correctly and efficiently. Whether you're a resident, business owner, or visitor, having the right area code knowledge will help you navigate the city's communication landscape with ease.