573 Area Code: Everything You Need to Know

The 573 area code serves a large portion of Eastern and Central Missouri, covering a variety of cities, rural towns, and scenic areas. Introduced in 1996, the 573 area code is an important part of the telecommunications infrastructure in a region known for its natural beauty, agriculture, and small but bustling cities like Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and Jefferson City. This area code plays a key role in connecting residents and businesses across a diverse region of Missouri.

In this article, we’ll explore the 573 area code, its geographic coverage, history, and why it’s important for residents and businesses in Missouri.

What Is the 573 Area Code?

What Is the 573 Area Code 1

The 573 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves Eastern and Central Missouri, covering both urban and rural areas. It provides telecommunications services to a region that includes the Missouri River Valley, the Ozarks, and parts of the Mississippi River region.

What Areas Does the 573 Area Code Cover?

The 573 area code covers a large section of Missouri, reaching many important cities and towns. Some of the key areas served by the 573 area code include:

  • Jefferson City (Missouri’s capital)
  • Columbia
  • Cape Girardeau
  • Hannibal
  • Farmington
  • Poplar Bluff
  • Mexico
  • Fulton
  • Sikeston

These areas represent a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities, connected by the 573 area code.

History of the 573 Area Code

The 573 area code was created on January 7, 1996, as a split from the 314 area code, which previously covered much of Eastern Missouri, including St. Louis. The split was necessary due to population growth and an increased demand for phone numbers, especially in rural areas and smaller cities outside the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Timeline of Key Events in 573 Area Code History:

  • 1947: The 314 area code is introduced as one of the original area codes, covering all of Eastern Missouri, including St. Louis.
  • 1996: The 573 area code is created as a split from 314, serving Eastern and Central Missouri, outside of the St. Louis area.

Since its introduction, the 573 area code has remained an important part of the telecommunications network in Missouri, particularly for regions outside the major metropolitan areas.

Why the 573 Area Code Is Important

Serving Missouri’s Capital and Educational Hub

The 573 area code serves Jefferson City, the capital of Missouri, and Columbia, home to the University of Missouri (Mizzou), the state’s largest and most prestigious public university. These cities are central to Missouri’s government, education, and healthcare sectors, and the 573 area code ensures that residents, businesses, and students remain connected.

Supporting Agriculture and Rural Communities

The 573 area code covers a large portion of Missouri’s agricultural heartland, including rural towns and farming communities. Agriculture is a significant part of the local economy in this region, with crops such as soybeans, corn, and wheat being major contributors. The 573 area code helps these rural communities stay connected to markets, suppliers, and support services, facilitating the smooth operation of farms and agricultural businesses.

Connecting Scenic and Tourist Areas

The 573 area code covers regions with important historical and recreational significance. For example, Hannibal, located along the Mississippi River, is known as the boyhood home of author Mark Twain and attracts thousands of tourists each year. Additionally, areas near the Lake of the Ozarks—one of Missouri’s top tourist destinations—are also included in the 573 area code. These areas rely on reliable telecommunications services to support tourism, recreation, and the local economy.

Serving the Manufacturing and Healthcare Sectors

Cities like Cape Girardeau and Poplar Bluff, both within the 573 area code, are centers for manufacturing and healthcare in the region. Cape Girardeau, in particular, is home to Southeast Missouri State University and has a growing healthcare industry. The 573 area code helps connect industries, institutions, and residents, contributing to the economic vitality of these areas.

573 Area Code and Neighboring Regions

Why the 573 Area Code Is Important

The 573 area code is bordered by several other area codes that serve different parts of Missouri and neighboring states. Some of the neighboring area codes include:

  • 314/557: Covers St. Louis and the immediate metropolitan area.
  • 636: Serves the St. Louis suburbs outside the city, including areas like St. Charles and Union.
  • 417: Covers Southwestern Missouri, including Springfield and Branson.
  • 618: Covers Southern Illinois, just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis.
  • 660: Serves Northwestern and North-Central Missouri, including rural areas and towns such as Kirksville.

Together, these area codes ensure that Missouri and its neighboring states have comprehensive telecommunications coverage.

Also Read: 616 Area Code

What Does It Mean to Have a 573 Area Code?

For residents and businesses in Eastern and Central Missouri, having a 573 area code signifies being part of a diverse region that is central to the state’s government, education, and agriculture. Whether you live in Jefferson City, work in Cape Girardeau, or study in Columbia, a 573 phone number connects you to a wide range of communities across Missouri.

For businesses, a 573 phone number helps establish a local presence in one of Missouri’s most important and diverse regions. Whether you operate in agriculture, education, tourism, or manufacturing, a 573 number ensures you stay connected to customers and partners throughout Eastern and Central Missouri.

FAQs About the 573 Area Code

Is 573 still a valid area code?

Yes, the 573 area code is still valid and actively used in Eastern and Central Missouri, including cities like Jefferson City, Columbia, and Cape Girardeau. It continues to serve both residential and business needs in this region.

Can I get a phone number with the 573 area code?

Yes, it is possible to get a 573 phone number, though availability may depend on the specific area and demand. The 573 area code is still in use for new phone numbers in Eastern and Central Missouri.

Is the 573 area code only for landlines?

No, the 573 area code is used for both landlines and mobile phones. Like other area codes, it is assigned to a variety of telecommunications devices, including residential landlines, business phones, and mobile devices.

Do I need to dial 1 before the 573 area code?

If you are making a long-distance call to a 573 number, you may need to dial 1 before the area code and phone number. For local calls within the 573 area code region, 10-digit dialing (area code + phone number) is typically required.

What other area codes are near the 573 area code?

The 573 area code is bordered by several other area codes, including:

  • 314/557: Serves St. Louis and nearby areas.
  • 636: Covers St. Louis suburbs.
  • 417: Covers Southwestern Missouri.
  • 660: Serves Northwestern Missouri.
  • 618: Covers Southern Illinois.

These area codes, along with 573, provide telecommunications services across Missouri and neighboring states.

The 573 area code is a vital part of the telecommunications network serving Eastern and Central Missouri, including cities like Jefferson City, Columbia, and Cape Girardeau. Introduced in 1996, the 573 area code has supported the region’s growth and development for decades, ensuring that residents and businesses have access to reliable phone services.

For residents and businesses alike, having a 573 phone number represents a connection to one of Missouri’s most diverse and important regions. Whether you’re living in Fulton, working in Hannibal, or running a business in Poplar Bluff, the 573 area code keeps you connected to the heart of Eastern and Central Missouri.

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