The 626 area code is a key telephone area code in California, primarily serving the San Gabriel Valley and nearby areas in Los Angeles County. Known for covering a diverse range of cities and communities just east of Los Angeles, the 626 area code plays an important role in the region’s telecommunications system.
In this article, we’ll explore the details of the 626 area code, its geographic coverage, history, and why it is significant for both residents and businesses in Southern California.
What Is the 626 Area Code?
The 626 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves cities and communities in the San Gabriel Valley and nearby areas. It was introduced to address the growing need for phone numbers in the Los Angeles area as the population increased and the demand for phone lines surged.
What Areas Does the 626 Area Code Cover?
The 626 area code covers cities and communities in the San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County. Some of the major cities served by the 626 area code include:
- Pasadena
- Alhambra
- Arcadia
- Monrovia
- El Monte
- West Covina
- Azusa
- La Puente
- Baldwin Park
- San Gabriel
- Temple City
- Rosemead
- Duarte
These areas are located east of downtown Los Angeles and are known for their residential communities, cultural diversity, and historical significance.
History of the 626 Area Code
The 626 area code was introduced on June 14, 1997, as a result of a split from the 818 area code, which was originally used for the San Fernando Valley and parts of the San Gabriel Valley. The introduction of the 626 area code was necessary due to the rapidly growing population and the increasing demand for phone numbers in Southern California.
Before the split, the 818 area code served a larger region, but as mobile phones became more popular and businesses required additional phone lines, the need for a new area code became evident. The creation of the 626 area code allowed for the continued expansion of telecommunications services in the San Gabriel Valley without impacting existing phone numbers.
Also Read: 323 Area Code
Key Milestones in 626 Area Code History:
- 1997: The 626 area code was created from a split with the 818 area code to serve the San Gabriel Valley.
- Ongoing Use: The 626 area code continues to serve a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial areas in Southern California, maintaining its importance in the region’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Why the 626 Area Code Is Important
Geographic and Cultural Significance
The 626 area code serves a culturally diverse and economically significant region in Southern California. The San Gabriel Valley is home to a large population of Asian American communities, particularly Chinese Americans, and is known for its rich cultural heritage and thriving business environment. Cities like Pasadena are famous for hosting annual events such as the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl football game, making the 626 area code well-known both locally and nationally.
Economic Hub of the San Gabriel Valley
Many cities within the 626 area code, such as Pasadena and Alhambra, are hubs for business, education, and healthcare. The area is home to several major companies, academic institutions, and research centers, making it an important part of the Southern California economy. Having a 626 phone number is crucial for businesses looking to establish themselves in this region.
Residential Growth and Community Identity
The 626 area code is associated with a large number of residential communities, offering a suburban lifestyle with proximity to Los Angeles. The San Gabriel Valley has grown significantly over the years, with many families and young professionals choosing to live in this region. The area code has become part of the local identity, especially in cities like Arcadia, Monrovia, and West Covina, which are known for their strong community ties and family-friendly environments.
626 Area Code and Neighboring Areas
The 626 area code is surrounded by several other area codes that serve neighboring regions in Los Angeles County and Southern California. Some of the nearby area codes include:
- 818/747: Covers the San Fernando Valley, including areas like Burbank, Glendale, and Van Nuys.
- 323: Serves central Los Angeles and surrounding neighborhoods.
- 909: Covers the Inland Empire, including San Bernardino County and Riverside County.
- 562: Serves parts of southeastern Los Angeles County, including Long Beach and Whittier.
These area codes, along with the 626 area code, make up the larger telecommunications system that serves the densely populated regions of Southern California.
What Does It Mean to Have a 626 Area Code?
For residents and businesses in the San Gabriel Valley, having a 626 area code means being part of one of the most culturally diverse and economically active regions in California. The 626 area code has become synonymous with the San Gabriel Valley‘s unique blend of suburban living, thriving business environments, and strong community identity.
For businesses, a 626 phone number offers a connection to the Los Angeles metropolitan area without being in the heart of downtown LA. It provides businesses with access to a large customer base while allowing them to establish a local presence in one of Southern California’s most vibrant areas.
FAQs About the 626 Area Code
Is 626 still a valid area code?
Yes, the 626 area code is still valid and actively used, covering cities and communities in the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas in Los Angeles County.
Can I get a phone number with the 626 area code?
Yes, you can still get a 626 phone number, though availability may depend on the specific area and demand. The 626 area code continues to be used for both residential and business phone numbers in the region.
Is the 626 area code only for landlines?
No, the 626 area code is used for both landlines and mobile phones. Like most area codes, it was originally assigned to landline numbers but is now commonly used for mobile phones as well.
Do I need to dial 1 before the 626 area code?
If you’re making a long-distance call to a 626 number, you may need to dial 1 before the area code and phone number. However, for local calls within the region, 10-digit dialing (area code + phone number) is typically sufficient.
What other area codes are near the 626 area code?
The 626 area code is bordered by several other area codes, including:
- 818/747: San Fernando Valley area
- 323: Central Los Angeles area
- 909: Inland Empire region
- 562: Southeastern Los Angeles County
These area codes, along with the 626, form a key part of the telecommunications system serving Southern California.
The 626 area code is an essential part of the telecommunications infrastructure in Los Angeles County, particularly in the San Gabriel Valley. Since its introduction in 1997, it has helped accommodate the growing population and increasing demand for phone numbers in the region. Known for covering culturally rich and economically active cities like Pasadena, Alhambra, and Arcadia, the 626 area code connects residents and businesses to one of Southern California’s most vibrant areas.
Whether you’re a local resident, a business owner, or someone interested in establishing a presence in the San Gabriel Valley, having a 626 phone number is a strong connection to a thriving, diverse community in Southern California.