Unlock the Wonders of Area Code 620: A Comprehensive Guide

Area code 620 encompasses a sprawling region in southeastern Illinois, teeming with vibrant communities and boundless opportunities. This guide delves into the heart of this area code, providing an indispensable resource for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Area Code 620: A Historical Tapestry

Area code 620 was established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). It initially covered the entire state of Illinois, but subsequent area code splits have reduced its reach to a smaller portion of the state.

Counties Served by Area Code 620

Area code 620 serves the following 12 counties in Illinois:

• Clay
• Clinton
• Crawford
• Edwards
• Effingham
• Fayette
• Jasper
• Lawrence
• Marion
• Richland
• Wabash
• Wayne

Population Demographics of Area Code 620

The population of area code 620 has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with a slight increase in recent years. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population as of 2020 was 251,216.

Age Distribution

The age distribution of area code 620's population is similar to the national average. However, the region has a slightly higher proportion of residents over the age of 65.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The racial and ethnic composition of area code 620 is primarily White (92.4%). Other significant groups include:

• Hispanic or Latino (4.6%)
• Black or African American (2.1%)
• Asian (0.7%)

Economic Profile of Area Code 620

The economy of area code 620 is primarily driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The region is a major producer of corn, soybeans, and hay. It is also home to several manufacturing plants, including automobile parts and food processing facilities.

Major Employers

Some of the major employers in area code 620 include:

• Walgreen Boots Alliance (Deerfield, IL)
• State Farm Insurance (Bloomington, IL)
• Mitsubishi Motors North America (Franklin, TN)
• Cassens Transport (Edwardsville, IL)
• SIU School of Medicine (Springfield, IL)

Educational Opportunities in Area Code 620

Area code 620 offers a wide range of educational opportunities, from primary and secondary schools to colleges and universities.

Higher Education Institutions

Area code 620 is home to several higher education institutions, including:

• Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (Edwardsville, IL)
• Eastern Illinois University (Charleston, IL)
• Lake Land College (Mattoon, IL)
• Kaskaskia College (Centralia, IL)
• Rend Lake College (Ina, IL)

Healthcare in Area Code 620

The healthcare system in area code 620 is robust and diverse, providing a wide range of medical services to its residents.

Hospitals and Medical Centers

Area code 620 is home to several hospitals and medical centers, including:

• Carle Foundation Hospital (Urbana, IL)
• HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital (Effingham, IL)
• Marion Memorial Hospital (Marion, IL)
• Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center (Mattoon, IL)
• SIU School of Medicine (Springfield, IL)

Transportation in Area Code 620

Area code 620 is well-connected by various modes of transportation, including roads, railways, and air.

Airports

Area code 620 is served by several airports, including:

• MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (Mascoutah, IL)
• Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (St. Louis, MO)
• Central Illinois Regional Airport (Bloomington, IL)
• Southern Illinois Airport (Carbondale, IL)

Tourism and Attractions in Area Code 620

Area code 620 is home to a number of popular tourist attractions, including:

• Shawnee National Forest (Carbondale, IL)
• Lincoln Home National Historic Site (Springfield, IL)
• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site (Collinsville, IL)
• Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby, IL)
• Six Flags Great America (Gurnee, IL)

Business Opportunities in Area Code 620

Area code 620 offers numerous business opportunities, thanks to its diverse economy and skilled workforce.

Key Industries

The key industries in area code 620 include:

• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Transportation
• Retail

Incentive Programs

Area code 620 offers a variety of incentive programs to attract and retain businesses, including:

• Tax incentives
• Financial assistance
• Infrastructure support

Strategies for Success in Area Code 620

To succeed in business or relocate to area code 620, consider the following strategies:

• Network with local organizations
• Identify potential partners and collaborators
• Leverage available resources
• Invest in workforce development
• Stay up-to-date on industry trends

Helpful Resources for Area Code 620

Numerous resources are available to assist residents, businesses, and visitors in area code 620:

• Southern Illinois Economic Development Association (SIEDA)
• Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
• Area Code 620 Chamber of Commerce
• Local libraries and community centers

Step-by-Step Approach to Relocating to Area Code 620

To relocate to area code 620, follow these steps:

1. Research different communities
2. Contact a local real estate agent
3. Secure a job or business opportunity
4. Enroll your children in school
5. Transfer utilities
6. Establish residency

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the area code for southeastern Illinois?
A: 620

Q: What is the population of area code 620?
A: 251,216 (as of 2020)

Q: What is the largest city in area code 620?
A: Marion

Q: What are the major industries in area code 620?
A: Agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and retail

Q: What universities are located in area code 620?
A: Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Eastern Illinois University, Lake Land College, Kaskaskia College, and Rend Lake College

Q: What is the largest airport in area code 620?
A: MidAmerica St. Louis Airport

Q: What is the unemployment rate in area code 620?
A: 5.4% (as of 2022)

Q: What is the median household income in area code 620?
A: $52,672 (as of 2020)

Table 1: Population Distribution by County

Table 2: Employment Statistics