The 626 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that serves the San Gabriel Valley region of California, United States. It is one of the original area codes established in 1947 and has undergone several changes over the years to accommodate the growing population and demand for phone numbers in the region.
Location and Service Area
The 626 area code covers a significant portion of the San Gabriel Valley, including the cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Industry, Irwindale, Monrovia, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South El Monte, South Pasadena, Temple City, and West Covina. The area code also serves several smaller communities and unincorporated areas within Los Angeles County.
History and Changes
The 626 area code was created in 1947 as one of the original area codes in the North American Numbering Plan. Initially, it served the entire San Gabriel Valley region, but as the population grew and demand for phone numbers increased, the area code underwent several changes. In 1997, the 626 area code was split, and the 909 area code was created to serve the western portion of the San Gabriel Valley. However, due to the rapid growth of the region, the 626 area code was eventually overlaid with the 323 area code in 2017, creating an overlay complex that allows for the use of both area codes in the same geographic region.
Phone Number Information
Phone numbers in the 626 area code follow the standard North American format, consisting of a three-digit area code (626) followed by a three-digit exchange code and a four-digit line number. The format is typically represented as (626) XXX-XXXX. The 626 area code is home to a diverse range of phone numbers, including residential, business, and government lines.
Interesting Facts
- The 626 area code is home to several major corporations and institutions, including the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
- The area code is also served by several major transportation hubs, including the San Gabriel Valley Airport and the Interstate 10 and Interstate 210 freeways.
- The 626 area code has been featured in several popular media outlets, including films, television shows, and music videos, often as a symbol of Southern California’s diverse and vibrant culture.
When calling a phone number in the 626 area code, it's essential to remember that the area code is part of an overlay complex, which means that 10-digit dialing is required for all calls, even local ones. This can help avoid confusion and ensure that your calls are connected correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cities are served by the 626 area code?
+The 626 area code serves several cities in the San Gabriel Valley region of California, including Alhambra, Arcadia, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Industry, Irwindale, Monrovia, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South El Monte, South Pasadena, Temple City, and West Covina.
Is the 626 area code an overlay area code?
+Yes, the 626 area code is part of an overlay complex, which means that it shares the same geographic region with another area code, the 323 area code. This requires 10-digit dialing for all calls, even local ones.
How do I dial a phone number in the 626 area code?
+To dial a phone number in the 626 area code, use the standard 10-digit format: (626) XXX-XXXX. Make sure to include the area code, even if you're calling a local number.
In conclusion, the 626 area code is a vital part of the San Gabriel Valley region’s communication infrastructure, serving a diverse range of communities and businesses. By understanding the history, location, and phone number information associated with this area code, individuals and organizations can better navigate the region’s complex communication landscape.
