California Area Codes: A Complete List of 36 Codes

California, the most populous state in the United States, is home to a diverse range of cities, towns, and communities. With its vast geography and large population, the state requires a complex system of area codes to facilitate efficient communication. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list of the 36 area codes that serve California, along with a brief overview of each code's history, geographic coverage, and usage.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is responsible for managing and assigning area codes within the state. The first area codes were introduced in the 1940s, with California being one of the original states to adopt the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). Over the years, the state has seen numerous changes to its area code landscape, with new codes being introduced and existing ones being modified or overlaid.

List of California Area Codes

Here is a complete list of the 36 area codes that serve California:

Key Points

Regional Breakdown

California's area codes can be broadly categorized into several regions:

• Northern California: 415, 650, 669, 707, 925
• Central Coast: 805, 831, 858
• Southern California: 213, 310, 323, 424, 442, 562, 619, 626, 627, 657, 661, 714

Area Code History

The first area codes were introduced in the 1940s as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). California was one of the original states to adopt the NANP. Over the years, the state has seen numerous changes to its area code landscape, with new codes being introduced and existing ones being modified or overlaid.

Conclusion

In conclusion, California's area code system is a complex and evolving landscape. With 36 active area codes, it's essential for residents and visitors to understand the different codes and their corresponding regions. This article has provided a comprehensive list of California's area codes, along with a brief overview of each code's history, geographic coverage, and usage.