573 Area Code

An In-Depth Look at the 573 Area Code

Unveiling the History and Significance of the 573 Area Code

The 573 area code was created in 1999 as an overlay to the 314 area code. This was necessary due to the growing demand for phone numbers in the St. Louis metropolitan area. The 573 area code covers the eastern and southern portions of Missouri, including the cities of Cape Girardeau, Farmington, and Sikeston.

The Need for an Overlay

An area code overlay occurs when a new area code is created to serve the same geographic area as an existing area code. This is done when the existing area code is running out of available phone numbers. In the case of the 573 area code, the 314 area code had reached its capacity due to the rapid growth of the St. Louis metropolitan area.

The implementation of an overlay allows for the creation of new phone numbers without having to change the existing area code. This is important because changing an area code can be disruptive for businesses and residents. It can also lead to confusion and missed calls.

Demographics and Population of the 573 Area Code Region

The 573 area code region is home to a diverse population of over 1.5 million people. The largest city in the region is Cape Girardeau, with a population of over 40,000. Other major cities in the region include Farmington, Sikeston, and Poplar Bluff.

The 573 area code region is also home to a number of colleges and universities, including Southeast Missouri State University, Missouri University of Science and Technology, and Three Rivers Community College.

Economic Profile of the 573 Area Code Region

The 573 area code region has a strong economy, with a diverse mix of industries. The largest industries in the region include manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The region is also home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Emerson Electric and Anheuser-Busch InBev.

The 573 area code region has a median household income of over $50,000. This is higher than the national median household income of $42,000.

Conclusion

The 573 area code is a vital part of the St. Louis metropolitan area. It serves a diverse population of over 1.5 million people and has a strong economy. The 573 area code region is a great place to live, work, and raise a family.