The 540 area code encompasses various counties in the western region of Virginia, including Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, and Winchester. It was first introduced in 1996 as an overlay to the 703 area code, which was experiencing high demand. The 540 area code serves approximately 700,000 people and covers an area of over 10,000 square miles.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of the 540 area code has grown steadily over the past several decades. In 2022, the estimated population was 704,126. The majority of the population is White (81.9%), followed by Black (13.4%), and Hispanic (10.2%). The median age in the 540 area code is 39.1 years.
The economy of the 540 area code is diverse, with major industries including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The area is known for its apple production, which accounts for over 40% of Virginia's total apple crop. Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) is a major electricity provider in the 540 area code, serving over 150,000 customers. James Madison University in Harrisonburg is a significant employer in the area and contributes to its vibrant higher education scene.
The 540 area code is home to some of Virginia's most fertile agricultural land. In 2022, the total value of agricultural products sold in the area was estimated to be $1.2 billion. Major crops include corn, soybeans, wheat, and of course, apples. The area is also home to numerous livestock farms, producing cattle, poultry, and hogs.
Manufacturing plays a significant role in the economy of the 540 area code. Major employers include Merck & Co., which manufactures pharmaceuticals, and Rubbermaid, Inc., which produces plastic storage containers and other products. The area is also home to several small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses engaged in a variety of industries.
Tourism is another important sector of the economy in the 540 area code. Shenandoah National Park, located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, attracts over 1 million visitors annually. Other popular tourist destinations include the Luray Caverns, the Shenandoah River, and the Historic Staunton Downtown District.
The 540 area code has access to a wide range of healthcare services. Major hospitals include Sentara RMH Medical Center in Harrisonburg, Augusta Health in Fishersville, and Winchester Medical Center in Winchester. These hospitals offer comprehensive medical and surgical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
The 540 area code is served by several institutions of higher education. James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg. It offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Shenandoah University in Winchester is a private university that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in healthcare, business, and the arts. Several community colleges, including Blue Ridge Community College and Lord Fairfax Community College, provide vocational and technical training.
The 540 area code has a rich cultural heritage. The area is home to numerous historical sites, including the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District and the Stonewall Jackson House in Lexington. The Grand Caverns, located near Grottoes, is one of the largest and most elaborate show caves in the United States. The area also boasts several museums, art galleries, and theaters.
The 540 area code is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The Harrisonburg Arts Council organizes various events and exhibitions, including the annual Shenandoah Valley Music Festival. The Waynesboro Symphony Orchestra and the Winchester Little Theatre are renowned for their performances. Several independent art galleries showcase local and regional artists.
The 540 area code hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester is one of the largest and most popular events, attracting over 250,000 visitors each year. Other notable events include the Shenandoah Valley Folk Festival in Staunton, the Virginia Hot Air Balloon Festival in Bridgewater, and the Luray Caverns Christmas Town Festival.
The 540 area code is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport in Weyers Cave provides commercial airline service to several destinations. The Amtrak Northeast Regional line stops at several stations in the area, including Harrisonburg, Staunton, and Winchester. Interstate 81 and Interstate 66 are major highways that traverse the 540 area code, providing access to major cities such as Roanoke, Richmond, and Washington, D.C.
Year | Population |
---|---|
2000 | 547,317 |
2010 | 633,791 |
2020 | 689,161 |
2022 | 704,126 |
Sector | Employment |
---|---|
Agriculture | 10,500 |
Manufacturing | 25,000 |
Tourism | 15,000 |
Healthcare | 18,000 |
Education | 12,000 |
Hospital | Location |
---|---|
Sentara RMH Medical Center | Harrisonburg |
Augusta Health | Fishersville |
Winchester Medical Center | Winchester |
Rockingham Memorial Hospital | Harrisonburg |
Shenandoah Memorial Hospital | Woodstock |
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