Area code 585 serves western New York, including the city of Rochester and surrounding areas like Batavia, Canandaigua, and Geneseo. It was created in 2001 from a split of area code 716 to better serve the Rochester metropolitan area. The region is known for its high concentration of universities, including the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as strong ties to healthcare and imaging industries. 585 is a standalone area code that reflects the area's blend of urban sophistication and small-town charm. It has become a regional identifier for western New York’s Finger Lakes and Genesee Valley communities.