Area codes in Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama uses 2 area codes — 205 and 659. The main Birmingham area code is 205.
Area codes serving Birmingham
Phone numbers in Birmingham are written as ten digits — for example (205) 555-0190 — and fall in the Central Time zone.
How Birmingham came to have 2 area codes
The original Birmingham area code is 205, in service since 1947. As the area ran low on available numbers, an overlay code was added over the same region for new phone lines: 659 (2019). Existing numbers kept their original code — an overlay never forces anyone to change their number — which is why Birmingham now uses all 2 codes and every local call is dialed with ten digits.
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Nearby cities
- Tuscaloosa area codes
- Montgomery area codes
- Huntsville area codes
- Florence area codes
- La Grange area codes
- Starkville area codes
- Tupelo area codes
- Kennesaw area codes
More cities in Alabama
Frequently asked questions
What is the area code for Birmingham?
The main area code for Birmingham, Alabama is 205. Birmingham is now served by 2 area codes in total: 205, 659.
How many area codes does Birmingham have?
Birmingham has 2 area codes: 205, 659.
Why does Birmingham have more than one area code?
As Birmingham used up the numbers available in its original area code (205, in service since 1947), additional "overlay" codes were added over the same area so new phone numbers could keep being assigned.
How do you dial a Birmingham number?
Dial all 10 digits — the area code (205 or 659) followed by the 7-digit local number. From abroad, dial +1, then the area code and number.
Sourced from the official NANPA (North American Numbering Plan Administrator) numbering database, current as of August 2, 2026. Refreshed monthly.