219-XXX-XXX Phone Numbers

The 219 area code belongs to Indiana and was initially created on January 1, 1947, as part of the North American Numbering Plan. This plan was introduced to simplify and streamline the telecommunication systems across the continent, and area code 219 was established for Northern Indiana, covering the active industrial region around Lake Michigan. It touched the borders of Illinois and Michigan and encompassed the entire northwestern corner of Indiana.

Geographical Boundaries

The 219 area code covers a vast geographical region that includes some of the major cities and counties in the northwestern part of Indiana. The significant cities in this area code are Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, Portage, Merrillville, Valparaiso, Schererville, Hobart, Crown Point, Michigan City, Highl, and Griffith. The area code also serves smaller towns and cities like Chesterton, Cedar Lake, Dyer, Demotte, LaPorte, Lake Station, Lowell, Munster, St. John, Kouts, and Wheatfield. The relevant counties are Lake County, Porter County, LaPorte County, Jasper County, and Newton County.

Population & Demographics

As of 2020, the estimated population within area code 219 is about 1.2 million people. This region's population is diverse, with a majority identifying themselves as White (about 65%), followed by African Americans (25%), Hispanics (15%), and smaller percentages of Asian, Native American, and other ethnicities. The age distribution within area code 219 leans more towards the younger age groups, with more than half of the population between 18 and 64 years old. Median household incomes within the 219 area code range from $35,000 to $75,000, depending on the specific city or town.

Zipcodes

There are multiple zip codes within the 219 area code to accommodate the different towns and cities, with some of the most common ones listed below:

- Gary: 46401-46411
- Hammond: 46320-46327
- East Chicago: 46312
- Portage: 46368
- Merrillville: 46410, 46411
- Valparaiso: 46383, 46384, 46385
- Schererville: 46375
- Hobart: 46342
- Crown Point: 46307, 46308
- Michigan City: 46360, 46361
- Highland: 46322

Notable Features & Developments

Given its proximity to Lake Michigan and the major cities of Chicago and Detroit, area code 219 has always been a vital region for trade, industry, and transportation. The area is known for its steel production and the presence of significant companies, such as the US Steel Corporation in Gary. It is also the home of Indiana Dunes National Park, which draws millions of visitors annually.

Additionally, developments in telecommunication technologies like wireless communication and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) have introduced new options for 219 area code users. With the increasing demand for phone numbers, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) has implemented the overlay plan with the new area code 463 for additional numbering capacity.

Area code 219 has a rich history and a diverse population, making it an exciting region to explore and understand. From the bustling cities of Gary and Hammond to the stunning natural landscapes of Indiana Dunes National Park, this area offers the best of both worlds while staying connected through the ever-evolving telecommunication networks.