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New Jersey Area Codes are an essential part of our phone numbers, and they help us identify the location of the person we are trying to reach. In the state of New Jersey, there are several area codes, each assigned to specific regions. Understanding New Jersey area codes is crucial, especially if you live in the state or plan to visit or do business there.
List of New Jersey Area Codes
As of 2021, the following are the area codes in New Jersey:
- 201: This area code covers the northern part of New Jersey, including Bergen, Hudson, and parts of Essex counties.
- 551: This is an overlay area code for 201, and it covers the same area.
- 609: This area code covers the central part of New Jersey, including Mercer, Burlington, and parts of Ocean and Atlantic counties.
- 640: This is an overlay area code for 609, and it covers the same area.
- 732: This area code covers the central and coastal parts of New Jersey, including Monmouth, Middlesex, and parts of Somerset and Union counties.
- 848: This is an overlay area code for 732, and it covers the same area.
- 856: This area code covers the southern part of New Jersey, including Camden, Gloucester, and parts of Burlington and Atlantic counties.
- 862: This is an overlay area code for 973, and it covers the same area.
- 908: This area code covers the central and western parts of New Jersey, including Hunterdon, Somerset, and parts of Union and Middlesex counties.
- 973: This area code covers the northern and eastern parts of New Jersey, including Essex, Morris, and parts of Bergen and Passaic counties.
- 551/973: This is an overlay area code for 973, and it covers the same area.
History of New Jersey Area Codes
The first area code in New Jersey, 201, was established in 1947. Over the years, as the population grew, more area codes were introduced to meet the increasing demand for phone numbers. The most recent area code, 640, was introduced in 2018 as an overlay for 609. The introduction of overlay area codes means that residents and businesses in the affected areas are required to dial ten digits instead of the traditional seven.
How New Jersey Area Codes Work
Area codes are assigned based on geographic regions, and they help ensure that phone numbers are unique and identifiable. In New Jersey, the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) is responsible for managing area codes and phone numbers. The NANP divides the United States into regions, and each region is assigned a three-digit area code. The next three digits represent the central office or exchange, while the last four digits represent the individual phone number.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Area Codes
Q: Do I need to change my phone number if my area code changes?
A: No, you can keep your phone number when the area code changes. However, you will need to update your contact information with anyone who has your phone number, such as friends, family, and business contacts.
Q: What is an overlay area code?
A: An overlay area code is a new area code that is introduced to the same geographic area as an existing area code. It is used to increase the number.
