Receive a local area code
608
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Economic Overview
The 608 area code region features a diverse economy, with strengths in education, healthcare, agriculture, biotechnology, and information technology. Major employers include the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Epic Systems, American Family Insurance, and several prominent healthcare providers. Agriculture, especially dairy farming, remains a vital part of the rural economy, while Madison serves as a hub for state government and high-tech industries.
Geographical Overview
Area code 608 covers a large portion of southwestern and south-central Wisconsin, including the cities of Madison, Janesville, La Crosse, Beloit, Platteville, Monroe, and Baraboo. Key counties within the area code include Dane, La Crosse, Rock, Sauk, Grant, Green, Iowa, and Monroe. The region is characterized by both urban centers and rural landscapes, including the scenic Driftless Area.
Location Info
The 608 area code encompasses most of southwestern Wisconsin, stretching from the Mississippi River in the west to just east of Madison, and from the Illinois border in the south to the Baraboo area in the north. It includes all or most of Dane, Rock, La Crosse, Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, and Sauk counties, and portions of Monroe, Crawford, Richland, Vernon, and Columbia counties. Major highways such as I-90 and US-12 traverse the region.
Population Demographics
The population within the 608 area code is diverse, with a mix of urban residents in cities like Madison and La Crosse and rural populations in agricultural communities. The region is home to a significant student population due to the presence of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and overall demographics reflect a blend of young professionals, families, and an increasing number of retirees.
Time Zone Info
Area code 608 is entirely within the Central Time Zone (CT).
Other Area Code Details
Area code 608 was created in 1955 when it was split from 414; it is notable for encompassing Wisconsin’s state capital, Madison, and the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin system. The region is known for its progressive culture, numerous parks and natural areas, and the unique geography of the Driftless Area, which was untouched by glaciers during the last Ice Age.
