205 Area Code
The 205 area code is a historic telephone code in the United States that serves central and western Alabama. Created in 1947 as one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) codes, 205 originally covered the entire state of Alabama. Over time, with the introduction of new codes, it was reduced to cover the central and western parts of the state, including Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Hoover. Today, it is overlaid with the 659 area code to provide additional numbering capacity.
Understanding the 205 Area Code
The 205 area code identifies phone numbers located in central and western Alabama. To accommodate growing demand, the 659 overlay was introduced in 2019, serving the same geographic area. The typical phone number format is (205) NXX-XXXX (or (659) NXX-XXXX for overlay numbers). For all calls within this region, 10-digit dialing (area code + 7-digit number) is mandatory.
205 Area Code Map and Geographic Location
The 205 area code map covers the heart of Alabama, including the Birmingham metropolitan area, the Tuscaloosa region, and surrounding communities. On a geographic map, the 205/659 overlay region stretches across central and western Alabama, encompassing both urban centers and smaller rural towns.
All Major Cities and Areas in the 205 Area Code Region
The 205/659 telephone zone includes several of Alabama's largest and most prominent cities, towns, and communities:
- Jefferson County: Birmingham, Bessemer, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Homewood
- Tuscaloosa County: Tuscaloosa, Northport
- Shelby County: Alabaster, Pelham
- Walker County: Jasper
- Other Areas: Livingston, Demopolis, and smaller surrounding towns
ZIP Codes within the 205 Telephone Zone (Examples)
ZIP codes within the 205/659 overlay area include (examples):
- Birmingham - 35203, 35205, 35209
- Tuscaloosa - 35401, 35404, 35405
- Hoover - 35216, 35226, 35244
- Bessemer - 35020, 35022
- Alabaster - 35007
- Jasper - 35501
- Northport - 35473, 35476
Time Zone
The 205 area code is in the Central Time Zone (CT). It observes Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6) in the winter and Central Daylight Time (CDT, UTC-5) during daylight saving time.
Dialing, Phone & Service Details
- Local dialing: Because of the 659 overlay, 10-digit dialing is required for all calls.
- Long-distance (within NANP): Dial
1 + area code + numberwhen calling outside your local area. - International: From outside the U.S., dial your international exit code +
1(USA country code) +205+ the 7-digit number (example:+1 205 555 0123). - Services: 205 and 659 numbers are used for mobile phones, landlines, VoIP, government services, universities, and businesses across Alabama.
Why the 205 Area Code Matters
The 205 number is closely tied to Alabama's identity - especially the Birmingham metro area and University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. It is widely used by businesses, hospitals, local governments, and residents as a symbol of regional connectivity and growth. For many, 205 is a recognizable sign of central Alabama's role in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and commerce.
What area code is 205? / Where's area code 205?
What area code is 205? - 205 is a telephone area code serving central and western Alabama, including Birmingham and Tuscaloosa.
Where's area code 205? - It covers the Birmingham metro, Tuscaloosa, Hoover, Bessemer, Jasper, Alabaster, and surrounding communities in Alabama.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 205 Area Code
What cities are covered by area code 205?
Major cities include Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Hoover, Bessemer, and Alabaster.
When was the 205 area code created?
205 was created in 1947 as one of the original NANP codes, covering all of Alabama before being reduced by splits and overlays.
Do I need to dial 10 digits for 205 numbers?
Yes. Since the 659 overlay was added, 10-digit dialing is required.
How do I call a 205 number from outside the U.S.?
Dial your country's exit code, then +1 205 followed by the 7-digit number (for example: +1 205 555 0123).
Is 205 a cell phone or landline area code?
Both. The 205/659 area assigns numbers to mobile phones, landlines, VoIP, and businesses.
