Get an Area Code 985 business phone and answering service

Geographic Regions and Area Codes

Area Code 985 is located in southeastern Louisiana, covering a vast region that includes 54 municipalities and 12 parishes. Major cities within this area code include Houma, Slidell, Hammond, and Thibodaux. The region spans diverse landscapes such as wooded wetlands, prairies, rivers, and bayous. This area code was created as an overlay for the 504 Area Code and was put into service on February 12, 2001. It is bordered by:

• 225 — Baton Rouge, LA
• 228 — Gulfport, MS
• 318 — Shreveport, LA
• 337 — Lafayette, LA
• 504 — New Orleans, LA
• 601/769 — Jackson, MS

Population and Demographics

The population served by Area Code 985 is over 1.6 million residents. The major cities of Houma and Slidell act as key economic hubs that drive this vibrant, diverse community. The region shows varied demographic patterns, with median household incomes ranging from $42,776 in Washington Parish to $82,172 in St. Charles Parish. St. Tammany Parish serves as the most populous area with 269,331 residents, functioning as a New Orleans exurb with strong economic indicators.

Time Zone

Area Code 985 operates in the Central Time Zone (GMT -06:00), aligning business hours with many other major U.S. markets.

Number of Small Businesses

While exact counts vary by city and parish, southeastern Louisiana is known for its entrepreneurial spirit. From hair salons to fitness studios, small businesses are a vital part of the local economy—creating jobs and fostering community growth.

Unique Story: Small-Business Resilience

Southeastern Louisiana is prone to hurricanes and flooding, yet local businesses show remarkable resilience. After Hurricane Katrina, many businesses in Houma and Slidell quickly implemented disaster-recovery plans, leveraged community support, and rebuilt stronger than before. This adaptability has become a hallmark of the 985 community.

Benefits of Using Goodcall in Area Code 985

• 24/7 Availability – Never miss a call, even after hours.
• Cost-Effective – Replace expensive call centers and reduce overhead.
• Improved Customer Service – Interactive AI provides quick, accurate responses.
• Easy to Use – Set up and manage your phone line without technical expertise.
• Scalability – Add lines or features as your business grows.

By adopting Goodcall, businesses in Area Code 985 can enhance customer interactions, improve operational efficiency, and stay competitive.