The 740 area code serves a large portion of Southeastern and Central Ohio, covering a diverse mix of rural communities, small towns, and key cities like Lancaster, Zanesville, and Chillicothe. Introduced in 1997 as a split from the 614 area code, the 740 area code is critical for connecting people and businesses across a region known for its historic significance, agriculture, manufacturing, and outdoor tourism.
In this article, we’ll explore the 740 area code, its geographic coverage, history, and why it’s important for residents and businesses in Ohio.
What Is the 740 Area Code?
The 740 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves Southeastern and Central Ohio. It covers a vast and varied region, including both rural areas and key urban centers, providing telecommunications services to a population that relies on industry, agriculture, and local businesses for economic stability.
What Areas Does the 740 Area Code Cover?
The 740 area code covers a large part of Ohio, serving cities, towns, and rural communities across the Southeastern and Central regions of the state. Some of the key areas served by the 740 area code include:
- Lancaster
- Zanesville
- Chillicothe
- Newark
- Marietta
- Mount Vernon
- Athens (home to Ohio University)
- Delaware
- Circleville
This area code spans a broad range of communities, from historical small towns to educational and industrial hubs.
History of the 740 Area Code
The 740 area code was created on December 6, 1997, as a split from the 614 area code, which had previously covered a much larger portion of Central Ohio, including Columbus. As the population in the region grew and telecommunications demand increased, a new area code was needed to ensure there were enough phone numbers to accommodate the growth.
Timeline of Key Events in 740 Area Code History:
- 1947: The 614 area code is introduced as one of the original area codes, covering a large portion of Ohio, including Columbus and surrounding areas.
- 1997: The 740 area code is created as a split from the 614 area code, serving Southeastern and Central Ohio.
- 2015: The 220 area code is introduced as an overlay for the 740 area code, providing additional phone numbers for the same geographic region.
The introduction of the 220 area code as an overlay for 740 means that new phone numbers in the area could be assigned either the 740 or 220 area code, depending on availability.
Why the 740 Area Code Is Important
Serving Key Cities and Rural Communities
The 740 area code covers a wide swath of Southeastern and Central Ohio, providing telecommunications services to a mix of rural communities and small towns. Cities like Lancaster, Zanesville, and Chillicothe are major hubs for industry, education, and local businesses. The 740 area code plays a vital role in ensuring that both urban and rural areas stay connected.
Supporting Education and Tourism
The 740 area code is home to Ohio University in Athens, one of the state’s major educational institutions, which attracts students, faculty, and researchers from across the country. The university relies on the 740 area code to maintain communications between the academic community and the rest of the state.
In addition to education, the 740 area code serves a region known for its rich history and outdoor recreation. Areas like Marietta and Hocking Hills State Park are popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors who come to explore the natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor activities. The 740 area code ensures that businesses in these areas can stay connected with tourists and customers alike.
Supporting Local Industry and Agriculture
The 740 area code also covers an area that is heavily involved in agriculture and manufacturing, two key industries for Southeastern and Central Ohio. The region includes farms, manufacturing plants, and small businesses that rely on telecommunications services to maintain operations. The 740 area code supports the economy by ensuring that local businesses have reliable communication infrastructure to stay connected with suppliers, customers, and partners.
740 Area Code and Neighboring Regions
The 740 area code is bordered by several other area codes that serve different parts of Ohio. Some of the neighboring area codes include:
- 614/380: Serves the Columbus metropolitan area and parts of Central Ohio.
- 937/326: Covers Southwestern Ohio, including the Dayton area.
- 304/681: Covers West Virginia, including areas bordering Ohio.
- 513: Serves Cincinnati and surrounding areas in Southwestern Ohio.
These area codes, along with 740, provide comprehensive telecommunications coverage across Ohio and into West Virginia.
Also Read: 920 Area Code
What Does It Mean to Have a 740 Area Code?
For residents and businesses in Southeastern and Central Ohio, having a 740 area code signifies being part of a region known for its historical significance, education, agriculture, and tourism. Whether you live in Lancaster, work in Zanesville, or attend school in Athens, a 740 phone number connects you to a community that is central to Ohio’s economic and cultural landscape.
For businesses, a 740 phone number helps establish a local presence in one of Ohio’s more rural and small-town regions. Whether you operate in agriculture, manufacturing, retail, or tourism, a 740 number ensures that you stay connected to your customers and partners across the region.
FAQs About the 740 Area Code
Is 740 still a valid area code?
Yes, the 740 area code is still valid and actively used in Southeastern and Central Ohio, including cities like Lancaster, Zanesville, and Chillicothe. It continues to serve both residential and business needs in this region.
Can I get a phone number with the 740 area code?
Yes, it is possible to get a 740 phone number, though availability may depend on the specific area and demand. With the introduction of the 220 area code overlay, new phone numbers in the region may be assigned either 740 or 220.
Is the 740 area code only for landlines?
No, the 740 area code is used for both landlines and mobile phones. Like other area codes, it is assigned to a variety of telecommunications devices, including residential landlines, business phones, and mobile devices.
Do I need to dial 1 before the 740 area code?
If you are making a long-distance call to a 740 number, you may need to dial 1 before the area code and phone number. For local calls within the 740/220 area code region, 10-digit dialing (area code + phone number) is typically required due to the overlay.
What other area codes are near the 740 area code?
The 740 area code is bordered by several other area codes, including:
- 614/380: Covers Columbus and Central Ohio.
- 937/326: Serves Southwestern Ohio, including Dayton.
- 513: Covers Cincinnati and Southwestern Ohio.
- 304/681: Serves West Virginia.
These area codes, along with 740, provide telecommunications services across Ohio.
The 740 area code is a vital part of the telecommunications network serving Southeastern and Central Ohio, including cities like Lancaster, Zanesville, and Chillicothe. Introduced in 1997 as a split from the 614 area code, the 740 area code has supported the region’s growth and development for decades, ensuring that residents and businesses have access to reliable phone services.
For residents and businesses alike, having a 740 phone number represents a connection to one of Ohio’s most historically rich and economically diverse regions. Whether you’re living in Athens, working in Newark, or running a business in Chillicothe, the 740 area code keeps you connected to the heart of Southeastern and Central Ohio.