Exploring the 337 Area Code: A Comprehensive Guide

The 337 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that serves southwest Louisiana. It was created in 1998 as a split from the 318 area code.

History and Coverage:

The 337 area code was created on June 1, 1998, to alleviate the increasing demand for telephone numbers in southwest Louisiana. It originally covered the parishes of Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, Vermilion, Beauregard, and Allen.

Over time, the 337 area code has been split into several smaller area codes, including 985, 504, and 225. However, it still serves the majority of southwest Louisiana, including the cities of Lake Charles, Lafayette, and Alexandria.

Demographics and Population:

According to the 2020 United States Census, the 337 area code region has a population of 657,359. The largest city in the area is Lake Charles, with a population of 78,060. Other major cities include Lafayette (129,625), Alexandria (46,428), and Opelousas (21,557).

The 337 area code region is home to a diverse population, with 60.6% of residents identifying as White, 34.5% as Black or African American, 1.5% as Asian, and 0.6% as Native American. The region also has a significant Hispanic or Latino population, with 10.4% of residents identifying as such.

Economy and Industries:

The 337 area code region has a diverse economy, with major industries including petrochemicals, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.

Petrochemicals is the largest industry in the region, with major companies such as Sasol, Westlake, and Citgo operating in the area. Manufacturing is also a significant industry, with companies such as GE Healthcare, PPG Industries, and IberiaBank having operations in the region.

Agriculture is another important industry in the 337 area code region, with major crops including rice, sugarcane, and soybeans. Tourism is also a growing industry, with the region's many natural attractions, such as the Atchafalaya Basin, attracting visitors year-round.

Education and Healthcare:

The 337 area code region is home to several major universities, including Louisiana State University at Eunice, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and McNeese State University. The region also has a number of technical colleges and community colleges, such as South Louisiana Community College and Delgado Community College.

The 337 area code region has a number of hospitals and healthcare centers, including Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, and Opelousas General Health System. The region also has a number of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Culture and Recreation:

The 337 area code region is home to a rich culture, with a strong French-influenced heritage. The region is known for its music, food, and festivals.

Music is an important part of the culture in the 337 area code region, with genres such as Zydeco, Cajun, and Rock 'n' Roll being popular. The region is also home to a number of music festivals, such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the French Quarter Festival.

Food is another important part of the culture in the 337 area code region, with seafood, **gumb