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815
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Economic Overview
The 815 area code region features a diverse economy with strong bases in manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, and healthcare. Major employers include Caterpillar Inc. in Aurora, Chrysler's Belvidere Assembly Plant, and several regional hospitals and educational institutions. The area also benefits from its proximity to Chicago, supporting warehousing, transportation, and service industries.
Geographical Overview
Area code 815 covers a large portion of northern Illinois outside the immediate Chicago metropolitan area, including cities such as Rockford, Joliet, DeKalb, Woodstock, Ottawa, and LaSalle. It spans multiple counties, including Winnebago, DeKalb, Will (excluding most of the city of Joliet), LaSalle, Ogle, Lee, Grundy, and parts of Kendall and Boone. The region encompasses both urban centers and expansive rural areas.
Location Info
The 815 area code stretches from the Wisconsin border in the north to areas south of LaSalle and Ottawa, and from the western edge of the Chicago suburbs westward to near the Mississippi River. It covers most of northern Illinois outside of Cook and the collar counties, excluding the core Chicago suburbs. The overlay area code 779 also serves the same region.
Population Demographics
The region’s population is a mix of urban, suburban, and rural residents, with Rockford as the largest city. Demographically, it is predominantly White, with growing Hispanic and African American communities, particularly in urban centers like Joliet and Rockford. The population is generally middle-income, with some areas of affluence and others facing economic challenges.
Time Zone Info
Area code 815 is entirely within the Central Time Zone (CT).
Other Area Code Details
Established in 1947, 815 is one of the original area codes in the North American Numbering Plan. The 779 overlay was added in 2007 due to increased demand for phone numbers. The region is known for landmarks such as Starved Rock State Park and the historic cities of Galena (partially covered) and Dixon.