This area code covers most of Riverside County in Southern California, but it also extends—partially—into San Bernardino County. It's part of the Inland Empire: the area to the east of Los Angeles and north of San Diego.
Major cities in the 951 area code include:
- Riverside
- Moreno Valley
- Corona
- Temecula
- Murrieta
- Hemet
- Perris
This area boasts a wide variety of geographical features, from urban centers to rural communities. It also covers part of San Bernardino, San Jacinto, and the Santa Ana Mountains, boasting a wide variety of recreational activities for those who call the area home and the many visitors to this beautiful area.
The 951 area code borders several other codes:
- 909 to the north (San Bernardino and eastern Los Angeles counties)
- 760 to the east (covering parts of San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego counties)
- 858 and 619 to the south (San Diego County)
- 714 and 949 to the west (Orange County)
Demographically, the region is diverse and growing: in 2022, the estimated population of Riverside County was approximately 2.43 million people. In recent decades, the area has boomed, with less-expensive real estate luring residents who want to live close to major job markets but prefer more affordable housing options than those available along the coast.
The economy in the 951 area code is varied, with key industries including:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Retail
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture (particularly in the eastern parts of the county)
The region is home to the University of California, Riverside, and California Baptist University, as well as numerous other institutions of higher learning. It also hosts the Riverside Mission Inn, a popular attraction; the Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium; and a number of wineries in Temecula.
Formed from part of the 714 area code, 951 was established in 2004 to help deal with a surge in residents and businesses in the area. This split reflects the area's significant population growth and economic development over the past few decades.
