606 – Ashland, KY area code

606 Area Code: An Overview

The 606 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) for the eastern portion of Kentucky. This area code serves the Ashland metropolitan area, as well as several surrounding counties. The 606 area code is one of the oldest in the state, having been established in 1954. It is a vital part of the telecommunications infrastructure of the region, providing essential connectivity for residents and businesses.

History and Establishment of the 606 Area Code

The 606 area code was created in 1954 as a split from the original 606 area code, which covered the entire state of Kentucky. The 606 area code was assigned to the eastern portion of the state, while the 502 area code was created for the western portion. This split was necessary due to the growing population and demand for telephone service in Kentucky.

Geographic Coverage of the 606 Area Code

The 606 area code covers 23 counties in eastern Kentucky, including Ashland, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Floyd, Greenup, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, Menifee, Morgan, Pike, Rowan, and Wolfe counties. It also serves parts of Breathitt, Knott, Letcher, Owsley, Perry, and Powell counties. The area code covers a total area of approximately 10,000 square miles.

Population and Population Density within the 606 Area

The 606 area code region has a population of approximately 430,000 people, making it the second-most populous area code in Kentucky. The population density within the area code is approximately 43 people per square mile, which is slightly lower than the state average. The region has experienced a slight population decline in recent years, primarily due to the loss of jobs in the coal mining industry.

Economic Profile of the 606 Area Code Region

The economy of the 606 area code region is primarily based on manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Major employers in the region include Ashland Inc., King’s Daughters Medical Center, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky. The region has also benefited from the development of the Appalachian Regional Commission, which has invested in infrastructure and economic development projects.

Major Cities and Towns Served by the 606 Area Code

The 606 area code serves several major cities and towns in eastern Kentucky, including Ashland, Pikeville, Catlettsburg, and Grayson. Ashland is the largest city in the area code region, with a population of approximately 21,000 people. Pikeville is the county seat of Pike County and is home to the University of Pikeville. Catlettsburg is located on the Ohio River and is a major transportation hub. Grayson is the county seat of Carter County and is known for its natural beauty.

Telecommunications Infrastructure in the 606 Area Code

The telecommunications infrastructure in the 606 area code region is well-developed, with a variety of providers offering landline, wireless, and broadband services. Major telecommunications providers in the region include AT&T, Verizon, and Windstream. The region has also benefited from the expansion of fiber-optic networks, which has improved broadband speeds and reliability.

Future Outlook and Expansion of the 606 Area Code

The future outlook for the 606 area code region is positive. The region is expected to experience modest population growth and economic development in the coming years. The telecommunications infrastructure in the region is also expected to continue to improve, with the expansion of fiber-optic networks and the deployment of new technologies. There are currently no plans to split or overlay the 606 area code.

Best Practices for Using the 606 Area Code

When dialing a phone number within the 606 area code region, it is important to use the correct area code. When dialing from outside the area code, it is necessary to dial the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number. For example, to call a phone number in Ashland, Kentucky, dial 606-583-1234.

Conclusion: The Significance of the 606 Area Code

The 606 area code is an important part of the telecommunications infrastructure of eastern Kentucky. It provides essential connectivity for residents and businesses, and it plays a vital role in the region’s economy. The area code has a rich history and a promising future, and it is expected to continue to serve the region for many years to come.

FAQs

Q: What is the area code for Ashland, Kentucky?
A: 606

Q: How many counties are covered by the 606 area code?
A: 23

Q: What is the largest city in the 606 area code region?
A: Ashland

Q: What is the main industry in the 606 area code region?
A: Manufacturing

Q: Is the 606 area code expected to be split or overlaid in the future?
A: No, there are currently no plans to split or overlay the 606 area code.