219 Area Code

The 219 area code is one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) codes, created in 1947. It serves the northwestern region of Indiana, including cities such as Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, Merrillville, and Michigan City. Once covering all of northern Indiana, 219 was reduced in 2002 when area codes 574 and 260 were introduced. Today, 219 remains the primary code for the industrial and suburban areas near Chicago�s metropolitan border.

Understanding the 219 Area Code

Area code 219 serves the Lake Michigan shoreline and northwestern Indiana, including the Calumet Region and communities directly adjacent to Chicago. The standard dialing format is (219) NXX-XXXX. Unlike some major metro regions, 219 does not have an overlay, so it is still a standalone area code for northwest Indiana.

219 Area Code Map and Geographic Location

The 219 area code map includes Lake County, Porter County, and LaPorte County. This region is part of the Chicago metropolitan area and is known for its industrial history, transportation hubs, and proximity to Lake Michigan�s Indiana Dunes National Park.

All Major Cities and Regions in the 219 Area Code

The 219 area code serves a wide range of communities in northwest Indiana. Key cities and regions include:

  • Gary - Historic steel town on Lake Michigan
  • Hammond - Part of Chicago�s metropolitan commuter belt
  • East Chicago - Industrial city on the Indiana-Illinois border
  • Merrillville - Commercial and retail hub
  • Michigan City - Lakefront city with tourism and industry
  • Valparaiso - College town, home to Valparaiso University
  • Portage - Residential and industrial community
  • Highland, Schererville, Munster - Growing suburban areas

ZIP Codes within the 219 Telephone Zone (Examples)

Representative ZIP codes covered by the 219 numbering area include:

  • 46402 - Downtown Gary
  • 46404 - West Gary
  • 46320 - Hammond
  • 46312 - East Chicago
  • 46307 - Crown Point
  • 46324 - Hammond (South)
  • 46342 - Hobart
  • 46360 - Michigan City
  • 46368 - Portage
  • 46383 - Valparaiso
  • 46375 - Schererville
  • 46321 - Munster

Time Zone

The 219 area code lies within the Central Time Zone (CT), the same as Chicago. 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: 10-digit dialing is required.
  • Long-distance (within NANP): Dial 1 + area code + number.
  • International calls: Dial your international exit code + 1 (U.S. country code) + 219 + 7-digit number (e.g., +1 219 NXX XXXX).
  • Services: Supports landlines, mobile phones, VoIP, and enterprise PBX systems.

Why the 219 Area Code Matters

The 219 area code represents northwest Indiana, a region deeply connected to Chicago�s economy, culture, and transportation network. It is widely recognized in both Indiana and Illinois, making it a point of regional identity for communities on Lake Michigan�s southern shore. Many businesses and residents maintain 219 numbers to reflect their local roots.

What area code is 219? / Where's area code 219?

What area code is 219? � 219 is the telephone code for northwest Indiana, covering Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties.

Where's area code 219? � It serves Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, Merrillville, Michigan City, Valparaiso, and nearby suburbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 219 Area Code

What is the 219 area code?

It is the telephone area code for northwest Indiana, created in 1947 as one of the original NANP codes.

Where is area code 219 located?

It covers Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties in northwest Indiana, including Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, and Michigan City.

What time zone is 219 in?

Central Time (CST/CDT), the same as Chicago.

Is 219 used for cell phones or landlines?

Both. The 219 code is used for landlines, cell phones, VoIP, and business numbers.

How do I call a 219 number from outside the U.S.?

Dial your country�s exit code, then +1 219 followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., +1 219 555 0199).

Does 219 have overlays?

No � 219 remains a standalone area code for northwest Indiana.

219 Area Code