California has 41 active area codes serving its diverse regions from Los Angeles (213, 310, 323, 424, 738, 747, 818) to San Francisco (415, 628) and San Diego (619, 858). Whether you’re identifying an unknown caller, setting up a business line, or planning communications across the state, this comprehensive guide covers every California area code with detailed city coverage, historical context, and the latest updates, including recent additions like 738, 837, and 357.
Need to look up a specific California area code? Use our free area code search tool to instantly find any code by city, verify caller locations, and check current local times.
Key Takeaways
- California currently has 41 active area codes, the most of any U.S. state
- All of California operates in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC-8 standard, UTC-7 daylight)
- Mandatory 10-digit dialing applies statewide for all local calls (area code + 7-digit number)
- Four new codes activated since 2023: 369 (Feb 2023), 738 (Nov 2024), 837 (Jan 2025), 357 (Mar 2025)
- The state uses both overlay and split strategies to manage number exhaustion across its 39 million residents
📌 Recent Updates
Latest California Area Code Additions:
- 738 area code overlays 213/323 in Los Angeles (activated November 1, 2024)
- 837 area code overlays 530 in Northern California (activated January 31, 2025)
- 357 area code overlays 559 in Fresno/Central Valley (activated March 26, 2025)
- 369 area code overlays 707 in North Coast region (activated February 1, 2023)
Page updated December 2025 with latest CPUC and NANPA data
Complete List of California Area Codes
California’s 41 active area codes, assigned by the North American Numbering Plan (NANP):
209, 213, 279, 310, 323, 341, 350, 357, 369, 408, 415, 424, 442, 510, 530, 559, 562, 619, 626, 628, 650, 657, 661, 669, 707, 714, 738, 747, 760, 805, 818, 820, 831, 837, 840, 858, 909, 916, 925, 949, 951
Quick Reference Table
| Area Code | Major Cities/Regions | Time Zone | Type | Year Introduced |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 209 | Stockton, Modesto, Merced | Pacific | Original/Overlay | 1958/2022 |
| 213 | Downtown Los Angeles | Pacific | Original/Overlay | 1947/2017 |
| 279 | Sacramento metro | Pacific | Overlay | 2018 |
| 310 | West LA, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1991/2006 |
| 323 | Central/East LA | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1998/2017 |
| 341 | Oakland, East Bay | Pacific | Overlay | 2019 |
| 350 | Stockton, Modesto region | Pacific | Overlay | 2022 |
| 357 | Fresno, Visalia | Pacific | Overlay | 2025 |
| 369 | Santa Rosa, Eureka, Napa | Pacific | Overlay | 2023 |
| 408 | San Jose, Sunnyvale | Pacific | Original/Overlay | 1959/2012 |
| 415 | San Francisco, Marin County | Pacific | Original/Overlay | 1947/2015 |
| 424 | West LA overlay | Pacific | Overlay | 2006 |
| 442 | Inland deserts, Palm Springs | Pacific | Overlay | 2009 |
| 510 | Oakland, Fremont, Berkeley | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1991/2019 |
| 530 | Redding, Chico, Lake Tahoe | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1997/2025 |
| 559 | Fresno, Visalia | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1998/2025 |
| 562 | Long Beach, Whittier | Pacific | Split | 1997 |
| 619 | San Diego | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1982/2018 |
| 626 | Pasadena, San Gabriel Valley | Pacific | Split | 1997 |
| 628 | San Francisco overlay | Pacific | Overlay | 2015 |
| 650 | San Mateo, Palo Alto | Pacific | Split | 1997 |
| 657 | North Orange County | Pacific | Overlay | 2008 |
| 661 | Bakersfield, Lancaster | Pacific | Split | 1999 |
| 669 | San Jose overlay | Pacific | Overlay | 2012 |
| 707 | Santa Rosa, Eureka, Napa | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1959/2023 |
| 714 | Anaheim, Santa Ana | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1951/2008 |
| 738 | Los Angeles overlay | Pacific | Overlay | 2024 |
| 747 | San Fernando Valley | Pacific | Overlay | 2009 |
| 760 | Palm Springs, Victorville | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1997/2009 |
| 805 | Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1957/2018 |
| 818 | San Fernando Valley, Burbank | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1984/2009 |
| 820 | Central Coast overlay | Pacific | Overlay | 2018 |
| 831 | Monterey, Santa Cruz | Pacific | Split | 1998 |
| 837 | Northern California overlay | Pacific | Overlay | 2025 |
| 840 | San Bernardino, Ontario | Pacific | Overlay | 2021 |
| 858 | San Diego overlay | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1999/2018 |
| 909 | San Bernardino, Riverside | Pacific | Split/Overlay | 1992/2021 |
| 916 | Sacramento | Pacific | Original/Overlay | 1947/2018 |
| 925 | Concord, Walnut Creek | Pacific | Split | 1998 |
| 949 | Irvine, Newport Beach | Pacific | Split | 1998 |
| 951 | Riverside, Corona | Pacific | Split | 2004 |
Southern California Area Codes
Los Angeles Area Codes
The Los Angeles metropolitan region operates six area codes, the highest concentration in California due to the massive population of over 13 million residents across LA County.
Area Code 213: Downtown Los Angeles
Now overlaid with 323 and 738
Area code 213 originally served all of Southern California when established in October 1947 as one of California’s three original codes. Today, it covers downtown Los Angeles, including the Financial District, Arts District, Chinatown, Little Tokyo, and surrounding central neighborhoods.
Historical Significance
As one of the nation’s original 86 area codes from 1947, 213 held immense geographic territory until population growth forced multiple splits. Major divisions occurred in 1951 (714 split), 1984 (818 split), 1991 (310 split), and 1998 (323 split). In August 2017, the boundary between 213 and 323 was eliminated, creating an overlay complex.
Current Usage
The 213/323/738 overlay serves approximately 4 million people. Businesses often prefer 213 numbers for their association with established downtown enterprises and historic prestige. All calls within this region require 10-digit dialing.
Area Code 310: West Los Angeles and South Bay
Introduced on November 2, 1991, area code 310 covers western and southwestern Los Angeles County, including Santa Monica, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Torrance, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Inglewood, Hawthorne, and Catalina Island. The region spans coastal communities and affluent inland areas.
Cultural and Economic Importance
The 310 area code represents some of California’s most recognizable locations, from the entertainment industry hubs of Beverly Hills to the tech startups of Silicon Beach in Santa Monica. The region includes major employers like SpaceX, Snap Inc., and numerous entertainment production companies.
Overlay Status
Area code 424 was added as an overlay on August 26, 2006, to address number exhaustion. Both codes now serve identical geographic areas, requiring mandatory 10-digit dialing for all calls.
Area Code 323: Central and Eastern Los Angeles
Originally split from 213 on June 13, 1998, area code 323 initially formed a ring around downtown LA, serving communities like Hollywood, East LA, South LA, Montebello, and Bell. In August 2017, regulatory changes merged 213 and 323 into an overlay complex.
Neighborhood Coverage
The 323 region encompasses culturally diverse neighborhoods, including Koreatown, Thai Town, Little Armenia, Historic Filipinotown, Silver Lake, Echo Park, and portions of the San Gabriel Valley. The area includes approximately 2 million residents.
Recent Overlay Addition
✨ NEW: Area code 738 was activated on November 1, 2024, creating a three-way overlay with 213 and 323. This addition provides relief for number exhaustion driven by business growth and mobile phone demand.
Area Code 424: West LA Overlay
Activated August 26, 2006, area code 424 serves as an overlay to 310, covering the same geographic territory. The overlay became necessary as the affluent communities in the 310 region exhausted available phone numbers faster than anticipated.
Current Distribution
New phone number assignments in the 310/424 region are distributed between both codes. Residents and businesses cannot choose which code they receive; numbers are assigned based on availability by telecommunications carriers.
Area Code 738: Los Angeles Overlay
Area code 738 represents California’s newest addition to the Los Angeles telecommunications infrastructure. Approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) after the 213/323 overlay complex approached exhaustion, 738 serves identical geographic areas as 213 and 323.
Why the Overlay Was Needed
The combined 213/323 region faced number exhaustion by late 2024 due to continued business expansion, mobile device proliferation, and IoT (Internet of Things) device deployments requiring unique phone numbers. The overlay prevents service disruptions and ensures number availability.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
No existing phone numbers changed with the 738 implementation. New customers requesting numbers in downtown or central LA may receive 213, 323, or 738 assignments. The three-way overlay maintains the 10-digit dialing requirement already in effect.
Area Code 747: San Fernando Valley Overlay
Implemented May 18, 2009, area code 747 overlays 818 across the San Fernando Valley, serving Burbank, Glendale, Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Chatsworth, San Fernando, Panorama City, Northridge, and surrounding communities.
Valley Communities
The San Fernando Valley, home to approximately 1.8 million residents, represents a major economic center with entertainment industry facilities (Warner Bros., Disney, Universal Studios), aerospace companies, and diverse residential neighborhoods.
Area Code 818: San Fernando Valley
Split from 213 on January 7, 1984, area code 818 was created to serve the rapidly growing San Fernando Valley. The region later split off 626 on June 14, 1997, before receiving the 747 overlay on May 18, 2009.
Major Institutions
The 818 region includes major employment centers like the Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport), Warner Bros. Studios, Walt Disney Studios, major hospitals, and California State University, Northridge.
San Diego Area Codes
Area Code 619: San Diego
Created by splitting from 714 on November 5, 1982, area code 619 serves the city of San Diego and surrounding areas, including Chula Vista, National City, Imperial Beach, Coronado, and downtown San Diego neighborhoods.
After splitting off 760 (1997) and 858 (1999), area codes 619 and 858 were merged back into an overlay complex in June 2018. This unusual reversal occurred to simplify administration and provide numbering relief across the entire San Diego metropolitan region.
San Diego, California’s second-largest city with 1.4 million residents, hosts major military installations (Naval Base San Diego, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar), biotechnology firms, and the University of California, San Diego.
Area Code 858: San Diego North County
Originally created June 12, 1999, as a split from 619 to serve northern San Diego neighborhoods and suburbs, 858 covers areas like La Jolla, Del Mar, Poway, Scripps Ranch, and Rancho Bernardo. The 2018 merger with 619 created an overlay serving the entire metro area.
Key Communities
The 858 region includes affluent coastal communities, major research institutions (Scripps Research, Salk Institute), and significant biotechnology industry presence. UC San Diego’s main campus falls within this area code.
Area Code 657: Orange County Overlay
Activated September 23, 2008, area code 657 overlays 714 across northern and western Orange County, including Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Santa Ana, Orange, Westminster, and Garden Grove.
Regional Characteristics
Orange County, with over 3 million residents, represents one of California’s most populous regions. The 657/714 area includes Disneyland Resort, major retail centers, and diverse residential communities.
Area Code 714: Orange County
Split from 213 in 1951, area code 714 originally covered a vast Southern California territory before multiple subsequent splits. The code now serves northern and western Orange County, overlaid with 657 since 2008.
Major Attractions and Economy
The 714 region hosts world-famous destinations like Disneyland and Angel Stadium, alongside significant retail, healthcare, and business services sectors. Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Huntington Beach serve as major economic centers.
Area Code 949: South Orange County
Created April 18, 1998, by splitting from 714, area code 949 serves southern and eastern Orange County, including Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Mission Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Lake Forest, and San Clemente.
Economic Profile
The 949 region represents one of California’s wealthiest areas, home to major corporations (Edwards Lifesciences, Allergan, Blizzard Entertainment), the University of California Irvine, and upscale coastal communities. The area includes major retail destinations like Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza.
Area Code 442: Desert Communities Overlay
Implemented October 24, 2009, area code 442 overlays 760 across California’s vast desert regions, covering Palm Springs, Victorville, Barstow, El Centro, Oceanside (northern San Diego County), and the Owens Valley.
Geographic Scope
This overlay serves one of California’s largest geographic areas by land mass, spanning the Mojave Desert, Colorado Desert, and eastern Sierra Nevada regions. The territory includes popular resort destinations and military installations.
Area Code 760: Desert and Mountain Regions
Split from 619 on March 22, 1997, area code 760 was created to serve the rapidly developing desert communities and northern San Diego County coastal areas. The region includes diverse climates from beach communities to high desert.
Major Communities
Key cities include Palm Springs (resort destination), Victorville (high desert), Barstow (transportation hub), Oceanside (coastal), and Bishop (eastern Sierra). The area serves both permanent residents and significant tourism infrastructure.
Area Code 840: San Bernardino Overlay
Activated February 23, 2021, area code 840 overlays 909 across the San Bernardino and Pomona Valley regions, serving San Bernardino, Ontario, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, and Upland.
Regional Economy
The 840/909 region represents a major logistics and distribution hub due to proximity to major highways and rail lines. The area includes Ontario International Airport and extensive warehouse facilities supporting Southern California’s supply chain.
Area Code 909: San Bernardino and Riverside
Split from 714 on November 14, 1992, area code 909 originally served both San Bernardino and Riverside counties. After splitting off 951 in 2004, the region received the 840 overlay in 2021 to address continued growth.
Geographic Characteristics
The 909 region encompasses the eastern suburbs of Los Angeles County and southwestern San Bernardino County, including significant population centers and transportation infrastructure serving goods movement throughout Southern California.
Area Code 951: Western Riverside County
Created July 17, 2004, by splitting from 909, area code 951 serves western Riverside County, including Riverside, Corona, Moreno Valley, Perris, Temecula, Murrieta, Hemet, and Lake Elsinore.
Growth and Development
This region experienced substantial residential growth in the early 2000s as families sought more affordable housing compared to coastal areas. The 951 area includes major wine country (Temecula Valley), retail centers, and commuter communities.
Area Code 562: Southeast Los Angeles County
Split from 310 on January 25, 1997, area code 562 serves Long Beach, Whittier, Norwalk, Lakewood, Bellflower, Cerritos, and portions of southeast Los Angeles County and northwest Orange County.
Long Beach Economy
The region’s anchor city, Long Beach, operates California’s second-busiest container port, serving as a major economic engine. The area also includes California State University, Long Beach, and diverse residential communities.
Area Code 626: San Gabriel Valley
Implemented June 14, 1997, by splitting from 818, area code 626 covers most of the San Gabriel Valley, including Pasadena, El Monte, West Covina, Alhambra, Arcadia, Monrovia, and Sierra Madre.
Cultural and Educational Significance
The 626 region features significant Asian American communities, particularly Chinese American populations. Major institutions include Caltech, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the historic Pasadena Playhouse.
Future Considerations
The CPUC projects area code 626 may approach exhaustion by Q1 2027, with potential overlay relief planning currently under evaluation.
Area Code 661: Bakersfield and Antelope Valley
Split from 805 on February 13, 1999, area code 661 serves most of Kern County (including Bakersfield) and northern Los Angeles County communities like Lancaster, Palmdale, and Santa Clarita.
Regional Economy
The 661 region represents California’s major oil production area, significant agricultural production (grapes, almonds, pistachios), and aerospace industry facilities. Bakersfield serves as the region’s economic center with approximately 400,000 residents.
Area Code 805: Central Coast
Split from 213 on January 1, 1957, area code 805 originally covered a vast territory before splitting off 661 in 1999. The code now serves the Central Coast, including Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Ventura, Oxnard, and Santa Maria.
Regional Characteristics
The 805 region encompasses California’s scenic Central Coast, including renowned wine country (Santa Barbara County), agricultural areas, coastal tourism destinations, and Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Overlay Addition
Area code 820 was implemented as an overlay on July 2, 2018, to provide numbering relief across the entire 805 service area.
Area Code 820: Central Coast Overlay
Activated July 2, 2018, area code 820 overlays 805 across all Central Coast communities, serving identical geographic territory from Ventura County through San Luis Obispo County.
Current Status
The 820/805 overlay maintains an adequate number of supplies for the region’s moderate growth rate. Both codes serve residential and business customers throughout the Central Coast.
Northern California Area Codes
San Francisco Bay Area Codes
The San Francisco Bay Area operates multiple area codes serving one of the nation’s most economically significant regions, home to Silicon Valley, major universities, and diverse communities.
Area Code 341: East Bay Overlay
Activated July 22, 2019, area code 341 overlays 510 across the East Bay, serving Oakland, Fremont, Hayward, Berkeley, Richmond, and surrounding Alameda and Contra Costa County communities.
Why the Overlay Was Needed
The 510 region faced number exhaustion due to business growth, particularly technology startups and related industries. The overlay ensures continued availability without customer number changes.
Area Code 408: San Jose and Silicon Valley
Split from 415 on January 1, 1959, area code 408 was California’s fourth area code. Today, it serves San Jose, Sunnyvale, Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Los Gatos, and most of Santa Clara County, the heart of Silicon Valley.
Technology Hub
The 408 region hosts major technology companies, including Apple (Cupertino), Google (Mountain View), Cisco Systems, Adobe, and thousands of startups. San Jose, California’s third-largest city, anchors the region with nearly 1 million residents.
Overlay Status
Area code 669 was added as an overlay on November 20, 2012, creating the 408/669 complex serving Silicon Valley.
Area Code 415: San Francisco
Established in October 1947 as one of California’s three original area codes, 415 initially served the entire northern portion of the state. Today, it covers San Francisco, San Rafael, Novato, and most of Marin County.
Cultural and Economic Center
San Francisco, with approximately 875,000 residents, serves as a global financial center, technology hub, and cultural destination. The 415 area code carries significant prestige and recognition worldwide.
Evolution
After numerous splits (408 in 1959, 510 in 1991, 650 in 1997), area code 415 received its first overlay, 628, on March 21, 2015. Both codes now serve San Francisco and Marin County.
Area Code 510: Oakland and East Bay
Split from 415 on September 2, 1991, area code 510 serves Oakland, Fremont, Hayward, Berkeley, Richmond, and western Alameda and Contra Costa counties. The region split off 925 in 1998 before receiving the 341 overlay in 2019.
Major Cities and Institutions
Oakland, the region’s largest city (440,000 residents), serves as a major port city and cultural center. The area includes the University of California, Berkeley, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and diverse residential communities.
Area Code 628: San Francisco Overlay
Activated March 21, 2015, area code 628 overlays 415 across San Francisco and Marin County. This marked the first overlay for the prestigious 415 area code after nearly 70 years of operation.
Current Usage
New phone number assignments in San Francisco and Marin County receive either 415 or 628 codes based on availability. The overlay maintains adequate numbering resources for the region’s technology and business growth.
Area Code 650: San Mateo County and Peninsula
Split from 415 on August 2, 1997, area code 650 serves San Mateo, Palo Alto, Redwood City, Daly City, San Carlos, Menlo Park, and most of San Mateo County, plus northwestern Santa Clara County.
Silicon Valley Peninsula
The 650 region includes significant technology company headquarters (Meta/Facebook in Menlo Park), Stanford University (Palo Alto), and numerous venture capital firms along Sand Hill Road. The area represents California’s innovation corridor.
Area Code 669: San Jose Overlay
Activated November 20, 2012, area code 669 overlays 408 across Silicon Valley, serving an identical geographic territory including San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Milpitas, and surrounding communities.
Technology Sector Growth
The 669 addition reflects Silicon Valley’s continued expansion and the proliferation of mobile devices, IoT deployments, and business lines required by the technology sector.
Area Code 925: East Bay Suburbs
Split from 510 on March 14, 1998, area code 925 serves Concord, Walnut Creek, Livermore, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Martinez, Antioch, Brentwood, and eastern Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
Suburban Growth
The 925 region represents suburban communities that experienced significant residential and commercial development in the 1990s and 2000s. The area includes major employment centers and commuter populations.
Area Code 369: North Coast Overlay
Area code 369 overlays 707 across California’s North Coast and Wine Country, serving Santa Rosa, Eureka, Napa, Vallejo, Petaluma, and surrounding communities in northwestern California.
Recent Addition Context
The 369 overlay addresses number exhaustion in the 707 region, driven by population growth in Sonoma and Napa counties, increased business activity in wine country, and general telecommunications demand increases.
Area Code 707: North Coast and Wine Country
Split from 916 on March 1, 1959, area code 707 serves northwestern California, including Santa Rosa, Eureka, Napa, Vallejo, Fairfield, Petaluma, and Sebastopol. The region encompasses the Redwood Empire, Wine Country, and northern Bay Area communities.
Regional Characteristics
The 707 area includes world-famous wine regions (Napa Valley, Sonoma County), coastal redwood forests, agricultural areas, and portions of the northern San Francisco Bay Area. Tourism represents a significant economic driver.
Current Status
The 369 overlay, activated in 2023, provides numbering relief while maintaining the 707 code’s strong regional identity and association with wine country.
Area Code 530: Northern California
Split from 916 on November 1, 1997, area code 530 serves northeastern California, including Redding, Chico, Davis, Marysville, Yuba City, Placerville, Truckee, and the Lake Tahoe region. The territory spans the northern Sacramento Valley, Sierra Nevada mountains, and northeastern counties.
Regional Diversity
The 530 region encompasses diverse landscapes from agricultural Sacramento Valley communities to Sierra Nevada mountain towns and remote northeastern counties. The area includes significant outdoor recreation areas and UC Davis.
Recent Overlay
✨ NEW: Area code 837 was activated January 31, 2025, creating an overlay across the entire 530 service area to address approaching number exhaustion.
Area Code 837: Northern California Overlay
✨ NEW: Activated January 31, 2025
Approved by the CPUC and activated January 31, 2025, area code 837 overlays 530 across all of northeastern California, from the Oregon border south to the Lake Tahoe region and Sacramento Valley communities.
Why the Overlay Was Needed
The 530 region experienced faster-than-projected number exhaustion due to growth in the Chico and Redding areas, increased vacation home development near Lake Tahoe, and general population increases across Northern California.
What This Means for Residents
Existing 530 customers retain their numbers. New phone number assignments in the region receive either 530 or 837 codes. The overlay maintains 10-digit dialing already required throughout California.
Area Code 831: Monterey and Santa Cruz
Split from 408 on July 11, 1998, area code 831 serves Monterey, Santa Cruz, Salinas, Hollister, Watsonville, and the northern Central Coast. The region stretches from the Monterey Peninsula through Santa Cruz County.
Economic and Cultural Significance
The 831 region includes major tourism destinations (Monterey Bay Aquarium, Carmel-by-the-Sea), agricultural production (Salinas Valley, “Salad Bowl of the World”), and UC Santa Cruz. The area combines coastal tourism with a significant agricultural economy.
Central California Area Codes
Area Code 279: Sacramento Overlay
Activated March 10, 2018, area code 279 overlays 916 across the Sacramento metropolitan region, including Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Elk Grove, and surrounding Sacramento County and southern Placer County communities.
State Capital Region
The 279/916 overlay serves California’s state capital and surrounding suburbs, home to approximately 2.4 million residents across the metropolitan area. The region hosts state government operations, healthcare systems, and diverse industries.
Area Code 916: Sacramento
Established in October 1947 as one of California’s three original area codes, 916 initially covered the entire northern half of California. After numerous splits (209 in 1958, 530 in 1997, 707 in 1959), the code now serves the Sacramento metropolitan core.
Historical Significance
As the area code for California’s state capital since 1947, 916 carries historical significance and a strong regional identity. Sacramento, with approximately 525,000 city residents, serves as the center of state government and a major economic hub.
Current Status
The 279 overlay, added in 2018, provides adequate numbering resources for the region’s continued residential and commercial growth.
Area Code 209: Northern San Joaquin Valley
Split from 916 in 1958, area code 209 serves Stockton, Modesto, Merced, Turlock, Tracy, and the northern San Joaquin Valley. The region split off 559 in 1998 before receiving the 350 overlay in 2022.
Agricultural Economy
The 209 region represents one of California’s most productive agricultural areas, producing significant quantities of almonds, walnuts, grapes, dairy products, and diverse crops. Major cities serve as agricultural processing and distribution centers.
Overlay Addition
Area code 350 was implemented on November 28, 2022, creating the 209/350 overlay to address number exhaustion across the northern San Joaquin Valley.
Area Code 350: San Joaquin Valley Overlay
Activated November 28, 2022, area code 350 overlays 209 across the Stockton, Modesto, and Merced regions. The overlay serves an identical geographic territory as 209 throughout the northern San Joaquin Valley.
Numbering Relief
The 350 addition provides numbering resources for continued growth in the region’s agricultural, logistics, and residential sectors.
Area Code 357: Fresno Overlay
Approved by the CPUC and activated March 26, 2025, area code 357 overlays 559 across the Fresno region and central San Joaquin Valley, serving the same geographic territory.
Coverage Area
The 357/559 overlay serves Fresno, Visalia, Madera, Hanford, Clovis, Tulare, and surrounding communities throughout Fresno, Tulare, Madera, and Kings counties.
Why the Overlay Was Needed
The 559 region approached number exhaustion due to Fresno’s population growth (California’s fifth-largest city), agricultural business expansion, and increased telecommunications demand across the central San Joaquin Valley.
Current Usage
New customers in the Fresno region receive either 559 or 357 area codes based on availability. Existing 559 customers retain their numbers without changes.
Area Code 559: Fresno and Central Valley
Split from 209 on November 14, 1998, area code 559 serves Fresno, Visalia, Madera, Hanford, Clovis, and the central San Joaquin Valley. The region includes portions of the southern Sierra Nevada foothills.
Economic Profile
Fresno, with approximately 545,000 residents, serves as the economic center of California’s San Joaquin Valley. The region produces enormous agricultural output, including grapes, almonds, pistachios, citrus, and dairy products, generating billions in annual revenue.
Recent Overlay
The 357 overlay, activated in March 2025, ensures continued number availability as Fresno and surrounding communities continue growing.
Understanding Time Zones in California
California operates exclusively within the Pacific Time Zone (PT), covering all 41 area codes uniformly across the state. This consistency simplifies scheduling and communications compared to states spanning multiple time zones.
UTC Offset and Daylight Saving Time
California observes Pacific Standard Time (PST) at UTC-8 during the winter months and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) at UTC-7 during the summer months. The state transitions to daylight saving time on the second Sunday in March and returns to standard time on the first Sunday in November.
Scheduling Across Regions
Unlike states such as Texas, Florida, or Tennessee that span multiple time zones, California’s single time zone simplifies intrastate communications. When scheduling calls or meetings anywhere from San Diego to Eureka, no time zone conversion is necessary.
National Time Zone Considerations
When coordinating with other U.S. regions, California operates:
- 3 hours behind Eastern Time (New York, Miami, Boston)
- 2 hours behind Central Time (Chicago, Houston, Dallas)
- 1 hour behind Mountain Time (Denver, Phoenix)
- Same time as other Pacific states (Washington, Oregon, Nevada)
How to Use Area Codes in California
All local calls within California require 10-digit dialing, meaning you must dial the area code plus the seven-digit phone number for every call, even when calling within the same area code.
Format: (XXX) XXX-XXXX or XXX-XXX-XXXX
This requirement applies statewide due to the implementation of overlay area codes and the national 988 suicide prevention hotline.
Local Calling
To make a local call anywhere in California:
- Dial the three-digit area code
- Dial the seven-digit phone number
- Press call/send
Example: Calling a San Francisco number from San Francisco, dial 415-555-1234 (not just 555-1234)
Long Distance Calling Within California
For calls to different California regions that may incur long-distance charges:
- Dial 1
- Dial the three-digit area code
- Dial the seven-digit phone number
Example: Calling Los Angeles from San Francisco, dial 1-213-555-1234
Check with your carrier regarding long-distance charges, as many modern plans include unlimited nationwide calling.
Calling California from Outside the State
When calling California from elsewhere in the United States:
- Dial 1 (country code)
- Dial the California area code
- Dial the seven-digit phone number
Example: 1-415-555-1234
International Calls to California
When calling California from outside the United States:
- Dial your country’s international access code (often 00 or +)
- Dial 1 (U.S. country code)
- Dial the California area code (without the leading 1)
- Dial the seven-digit phone number
Example from UK: 00-1-415-555-1234 or +1-415-555-1234
Mobile Phone Considerations
Mobile phones retain their original area code even when users relocate to different regions. A person with a 213 Los Angeles number may physically be located in San Francisco or any other California city. This portability means area codes no longer reliably indicate a caller’s current location for mobile numbers.
Understanding Overlays and Splits
California uses two primary strategies to manage area code exhaustion: overlays and splits.
What Are Overlays?
An overlay occurs when a new area code is assigned to the same geographic region as an existing code. Multiple area codes serve identical territory, with new phone numbers receiving whichever code has available numbers.
Key Characteristics:
- No customer numbers change
- Both codes serve the same cities and neighborhoods
- Requires 10-digit dialing
- New assignments receive any available code
Example: Area codes 213, 323, and 738 all serve central Los Angeles. A business in downtown LA might have a 213 number while their neighbor has 323 or 738.
What Are Splits?
A split divides an existing area code’s territory into two separate regions, each receiving different codes. Geographic boundaries determine which areas retain the original code and which receive the new code.
Key Characteristics:
- Some customers must change numbers (assigned new code)
- Clear geographic boundaries separate codes
- Each code serves a distinct territory
- May require 10-digit dialing if overlays later occur
Example: When 310 split from 213 in 1991, western Los Angeles received 310 while central LA retained 213. Clear boundaries separated the regions.
Why California Uses Both Strategies
California initially relied on splits but transitioned primarily to overlays after the 1990s. Overlays became preferred because:
- No customers face forced number changes
- Businesses avoid costs of updating printed materials
- Implementation occurs faster without customer transitions
- Geographic boundaries become less relevant for mobile devices
The state now uses overlays almost exclusively for number relief, with splits remaining rare.
Major California Cities and Their Area Codes
| City | Population | Area Codes | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 3,900,000 | 213, 323, 738 (central) 310, 424 (west) 818, 747 (valley) | Southern California | State’s largest city with multiple codes across regions |
| San Diego | 1,400,000 | 619, 858 | Southern California | Second-largest city with metro-wide overlay |
| San Jose | 1,000,000 | 408, 669 | Northern California | Heart of Silicon Valley, third-largest city |
| San Francisco | 875,000 | 415, 628 | Northern California | Global financial and tech hub with prestigious 415 code |
| Fresno | 545,000 | 559, 357 | Central California | Fifth-largest city, San Joaquin Valley hub |
| Sacramento | 525,000 | 916, 279 | Central California | State capital with original 1947 area code |
| Long Beach | 455,000 | 562 | Southern California | Major port city in LA County |
| Oakland | 440,000 | 510, 341 | Northern California | East Bay’s largest city, major port |
| Bakersfield | 405,000 | 661 | Central California | Kern County seat, oil and agriculture center |
| Anaheim | 350,000 | 714, 657 | Southern California | Home to Disneyland Resort |
| Santa Ana | 310,000 | 714, 657 | Southern California | Orange County seat |
| Riverside | 315,000 | 951 | Southern California | Inland Empire major city |
| Stockton | 320,000 | 209, 350 | Central California | Northern San Joaquin Valley center |
| Irvine | 310,000 | 949 | Southern California | Planned community, major business center |
| Chula Vista | 275,000 | 619, 858 | Southern California | San Diego’s largest suburb |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many area codes does California have?
California currently has 41 active area codes, the most of any U.S. state. This high number reflects California’s population of 39 million residents (the largest in the nation), diverse geographic regions spanning 163,696 square miles, and a concentration of businesses requiring phone numbers. The state added four new codes since 2023 (369, 738, 837, 357) to address continued demand.
What are the Los Angeles area codes?
Los Angeles operates six area codes depending on the specific region. Central and downtown LA uses 213, 323, and 738 (three-way overlay). West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills use 310 and 424 (overlay). The San Fernando Valley uses 818 and 747 (overlay). All LA area codes require 10-digit dialing for local calls.
What is the newest California area code?
The newest California area code is 357, which began service on March 26, 2025. This code overlays 559 in the Fresno and central San Joaquin Valley region. Before 357, area code 837 launched January 31, 2025 (overlaying 530 in northern California), and 738 activated November 1, 2024 (overlaying 213/323 in Los Angeles).
Why does California have so many area codes?
California requires numerous area codes due to several factors. The state’s 39 million residents represent the largest U.S. population, creating massive demand for phone numbers. Major metropolitan areas (Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego) host millions of residents and businesses each requiring phone lines. The proliferation of mobile phones means individuals often have multiple devices with separate numbers.
Businesses use numerous lines for different departments, fax machines, and automated systems. Additionally, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and various telecommunications applications require unique phone numbers, further increasing demand.
Do I need to dial 10 digits for local calls in California?
Yes, all local calls within California require 10-digit dialing (area code plus seven-digit number). This requirement applies statewide due to overlay area codes and the national 988 suicide prevention hotline implementation. Even when calling a neighbor with the same area code, you must dial all 10 digits. The requirement has been mandatory throughout California for several years.
What area code is 619?
Area code 619 serves San Diego and surrounding communities, including Chula Vista, National City, Imperial Beach, and Coronado. Created in 1982 by splitting from 714, the code originally covered all of San Diego County before later splits created 760 (1997) and 858 (1999). In 2018, 619 and 858 were merged back into an overlay serving the entire San Diego metropolitan region.
Do cell phones keep their area code when moving?
Yes, mobile phone numbers retain their original area code even when users permanently relocate to different cities or states. This number portability means a person with a 415 San Francisco number might live in Los Angeles, New York, or anywhere else. Because of this, area codes no longer reliably indicate a caller’s current location for mobile phones, only where their number was originally assigned.
Future California Area Codes
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) continuously monitors number availability across all area codes and plans relief measures before exhaustion occurs.
Current Projections:
- Area code 626 (San Gabriel Valley): Projected exhaustion Q1 2027, overlay relief under evaluation
- Area codes 657/714 (Orange County): Projected exhaustion Q4 2027, overlay planning in progress
- Area codes 213/323/738 (Los Angeles): Adequate supply through 2030+ with recent 738 addition
Staying Informed About Changes
To stay updated on California area code changes:
- Visit the CPUC website (cpuc.ca.gov) for official announcements
- Check NANPA (nationalnanpa.com) for nationwide area code status
- Monitor telecommunications provider notifications
- Review industry news covering California telecommunications
New area codes typically require several years of planning, public comment periods, and regulatory approval before implementation. The CPUC announces upcoming codes well in advance to allow businesses and residents time to prepare.
Additional Resources
Official Regulatory Sources
- California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC): cpuc.ca.gov/industries-and-topics/internet-and-phone/area-codes-and-numbering
- North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA): nationalnanpa.com
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC): fcc.gov/general/north-american-numbering-plan
Related Tools and Pages
- Search California Area Codes by City – Instant lookup tool
- California Time Zone Information – Current times across the state
- Reverse Phone Number Lookup – Identify unknown callers
References and Data Sources
All information on this page is verified against official sources, including CPUC area code announcements, NANPA assignment data, FCC telecommunications records, and U.S. Census Bureau population statistics. Page last updated December 2025 with the latest area code activations and regional information.