304-XXX-XXX Phone Numbers

Area code 304, established under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) in 1947, was one of the first set of area codes in the United States. Assigned exclusively to West Virginia, it represents the entire state. As the state's population grew and the demand for phone numbers increased, area code 681 was introduced in 2009 as an overlay to area code 304.

Geographical Coverage and Key Zip Codes:

Encompassing all 55 counties of West Virginia, area code 304 serves cities including Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Parkersburg, Wheeling, Weirton, and Fairmont. Here are some of the key zip codes within area code 304:

- Charleston: 25301 - 25396
- Huntington: 25701 - 25779
- Morgantown: 26501, 26502, 26504 - 26508

Population and Demographics:

As of 2020, West Virginia has an estimated population of about 1.79 million, the majority of which falls under area code 304. However, the state has seen a decline in its population, with a decrease of approximately 3.2% between 2010 and 2020.

Ethnically, West Virginia's population is predominantly Caucasian, representing about 93% of residents. The remaining demographic groups include African Americans (3.6%), Hispanics (1.7%), and Asians (0.8%), with other ethnicities and mixed racial backgrounds making up the rest. The median age in the state is around 42.9 years, slightly higher than the national average, due to an aging population and younger individuals moving out of state for work and education opportunities.

Economy and Infrastructure:

Area code 304 serves as the economic hub of West Virginia, hosting key industries such as energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. While the state has historically been known for coal mining, natural gas production, and chemical manufacturing, there has been a recent shift towards renewable energy sources and technological advancements. Several residents within the 304 area code are employed by prominent universities, healthcare facilities, and government institutions.

The infrastructure within area code 304 includes a network of highways and interstates, such as Interstate 64, Interstate 77, and Interstate 79. Air travel options are provided by Yeager Airport in Charleston and North Central West Virginia Airport in Bridgeport, offering commercial flights and general aviation services.

Education:

The 304 area code is home to several esteemed educational institutions, including West Virginia University (WVU) in Morgantown and Marshall University in Huntington. This region also includes a variety of state and community colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutes.

In conclusion, area code 304 and its overlay, area code 681, cover the entirety of West Virginia, representing the state's rich history, natural beauty, and evolving economic landscape. Exploring the key zip codes, demographic data, and other aspects of this region provides valuable insights into the critical role that area code 304 plays in the daily lives of West Virginians.