As our digital world continues to expand, so does our need for phone numbers. In 2026, several major regions across the United States will be introducing new area codes to meet growing demand. If you live in New York City, Colorado, or Mississippi, here’s what you need to know about these upcoming changes.
NYC Gets Area Code 465
New York City is preparing to launch 465, which is expected to go into service by October 2026. This new code will serve the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Marble Hill section of Manhattan, overlaying the existing 347, 718, 917, and 929 codes.
The introduction of 465 comes as existing codes in these boroughs approach exhaustion. According to regulators, current codes are expected to run out of available numbers in the fourth quarter of 2026. The new 465 area code should provide the region with enough phone numbers to last approximately 11 years.
For current residents and businesses, this is good news: your existing phone number won’t change. The new area code will only be assigned to those requesting new phone lines after the current supply is depleted.
Colorado Expands with Area Code 748
Northern and western Colorado will also see a new area code in 2026. 748 will overlay the existing 970 code, which covers a vast region including Fort Collins, Aspen, Grand Junction, Durango, and surrounding communities.
Like the NYC rollout, this is an overlay system, meaning both 970 and 748 will serve the same geographic area. Residents and businesses with existing 970 numbers will keep them, while new phone line requests will receive 748 numbers once 970 is fully allocated.
Colorado’s rapid population growth and expanding business sector have driven the need for additional phone numbers in this region, making the new area code a necessary step to accommodate continued development.
Mississippi Introduces Area Code 471
Mississippi is joining the 2026 area code expansion with the introduction of 471, planned for January 30, 2026. This new code will overlay the existing 662 number, which serves the northern portion of the state.
As with other overlay implementations, the current 662 users won’t see any changes to their existing numbers. The 471 area code will simply provide a new pool of numbers for future assignments.
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New Area Codes: What Does This Mean for You?
If you live in any of these regions, here are the key takeaways:
Your current number stays the same. These are overlay area codes, not splits, so existing phone numbers remain unchanged.
10-digit dialing may be required. In overlay areas, you’ll need to dial the full 10-digit number (area code + phone number) for all local calls, even within the same area code.
Update your materials gradually. While there’s no immediate rush, businesses may want to start considering how new numbers will appear on marketing materials, business cards, and websites.
Plan for new lines. If you’re planning to add new phone lines in late 2026 or beyond, be prepared to receive a number with one of these new area codes.
Looking Forward
The introduction of new area codes is a routine part of telecommunications management, reflecting population growth, business expansion, and our increasing reliance on mobile devices. While it may take some adjustment to see unfamiliar area codes in these regions, the process is designed to be as seamless as possible for existing customers.
As always, implementation dates can be subject to change based on regulatory decisions and actual number exhaustion rates. For the most current information specific to your area, check with your local telecommunications provider or state public utilities commission.
