The 352 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that serves a large portion of north-central Florida, United States. It was one of the original area codes established in 1947 and has undergone several changes over the years to accommodate the growing population and increasing demand for telephone numbers. The 352 area code is currently assigned to several counties, including Alachua, Citrus, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, Marion, and Sumter, covering a vast geographic area of approximately 4,000 square miles.
Geographic Coverage and Demographics
The 352 area code encompasses a diverse range of communities, from urban centers like Gainesville and Ocala to rural areas and small towns. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of the regions served by the 352 area code is approximately 1.3 million people, with a median household income of $43,419 and a median age of 42.4 years. The area is known for its natural beauty, with numerous lakes, rivers, and springs, as well as its rich cultural heritage, including historic sites, museums, and festivals.
Economic and Educational Landscape
The economy of the 352 area code region is driven by various industries, including healthcare, education, tourism, and agriculture. The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, is a major economic driver and a renowned institution for higher education and research. Other notable educational institutions in the area include the College of Central Florida and the Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative’s lineworker training program. The region is also home to several major hospitals, including the UF Health Shands Hospital and the Ocala Regional Medical Center.
| County | Population (2020) | Median Household Income |
|---|---|---|
| Alachua | 278,468 | $43,931 |
| Citrus | 153,843 | $40,619 |
| Dixie | 16,852 | $36,419 |
| Gilchrist | 18,564 | $38,419 |
| Levy | 42,915 | $35,619 |
| Marion | 375,908 | $41,931 |
| Sumter | 129,752 | $44,931 |
Key Points
- The 352 area code serves a large portion of north-central Florida, covering approximately 4,000 square miles.
- The region has a diverse economy, with major industries including healthcare, education, tourism, and agriculture.
- The University of Florida is a significant economic driver and a renowned institution for higher education and research.
- The population of the 352 area code region is approximately 1.3 million people, with a median household income of $43,419 and a median age of 42.4 years.
- The region is experiencing steady growth, driven by its strong economy, high-quality educational institutions, and attractive natural environment.
Telephone and Communications Infrastructure
The 352 area code is served by several telephone companies, including AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint, which provide a range of services, including landline, mobile, and internet connectivity. The region has a well-developed communications infrastructure, with multiple cell towers and fiber-optic networks providing high-speed internet access to residents and businesses. However, there are still areas with limited or no access to high-speed internet, particularly in rural communities, which can create challenges for economic development and access to essential services.
Area Code Overlay and Relief Planning
In 2015, the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) announced that the 352 area code would be overlaid with a new area code, 386, to provide additional numbering resources for the growing region. The overlay, which became effective in 2016, allows for the use of 10-digit dialing, where callers must dial the area code and the seven-digit telephone number to complete a call. This change was necessary to accommodate the increasing demand for telephone numbers and to ensure that the region has sufficient numbering capacity to support its growth and development.
What is the 352 area code, and where is it located?
+The 352 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that serves a large portion of north-central Florida, United States. It covers several counties, including Alachua, Citrus, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, Marion, and Sumter.
What are the major industries in the 352 area code region?
+The major industries in the 352 area code region include healthcare, education, tourism, and agriculture. The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, is a significant economic driver and a renowned institution for higher education and research.
What is the population of the 352 area code region, and what is the median household income?
+The population of the 352 area code region is approximately 1.3 million people, with a median household income of $43,419 and a median age of 42.4 years.
In conclusion, the 352 area code is a vital part of the north-central Florida region, serving a diverse range of communities and supporting a strong economy, high-quality educational institutions, and an attractive natural environment. As the region continues to grow and develop, it is essential to invest in infrastructure, innovation, and community development to ensure that the 352 area code remains a thriving and competitive region.
