The 916 area code is one of California’s original and most historically significant telephone area codes. Serving the Sacramento metropolitan area and parts of Northern California, the 916 area code has played a vital role in the region’s communication infrastructure since its inception. From government offices to bustling businesses, the 916 area code remains a key identifier for the capital city of California and the surrounding areas. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the 916 area code, its geographical scope, how it functions, and its significance for both residents and businesses.
What Is the 916 Area Code?
The 916 area code serves the Sacramento metropolitan area, including Sacramento, the capital of California, and several surrounding cities and counties. It was one of the original area codes established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and is an essential part of Northern California’s telecommunications network. The 916 area code covers much of the Sacramento Valley and has been a staple of the region’s identity for decades.
Due to Sacramento’s role as California’s state capital, the 916 area code is widely recognized in the political, economic, and cultural spheres. Today, it continues to serve a diverse range of industries, including government, healthcare, education, agriculture, and technology.
History of the 916 Area Code
The 916 area code was established in 1947 as one of the first area codes in California. At the time, it covered a large portion of Northern California, stretching from the Sacramento Valley to the Sierra Nevada. However, as the state’s population grew and the demand for telephone numbers increased, the 916 area code underwent several changes to accommodate this growth.
Splits and Changes in Coverage
Over the years, the 916 area code has been split multiple times to create new area codes for other parts of Northern California. The most significant changes include:
- 1959: The first major split occurred when the 707 area code was created, covering the North Coast and parts of the Sacramento Valley.
- 1997: A second split resulted in the creation of the 530 area code, which took over much of Northern California, leaving the 916 area code primarily serving Sacramento and its immediate surroundings.
As Sacramento grew into a major metropolitan area, it became clear that additional phone numbers were needed to support the region’s expansion. To address this, an overlay code was introduced in 2018.
The Introduction of the 279 Overlay
In 2018, the 279 area code was introduced as an overlay for the 916 area code. This means that new phone numbers assigned in the Sacramento region could have either a 916 or 279 area code, while existing 916 numbers remained unchanged. The overlay system allowed for a continuous supply of phone numbers without disrupting existing numbers or splitting the region again.
Geographical Scope of the 916 Area Code
The 916 area code covers Sacramento and several neighboring cities and communities in Northern California. As the state capital, Sacramento is the primary city served by the 916 area code, but many of the surrounding suburbs and nearby towns also fall within this code’s coverage.
Key Areas Served by the 916 Area Code:
- Sacramento: The state capital of California, known for its government offices, cultural institutions, and growing tech sector.
- Citrus Heights: A suburban city located northeast of Sacramento, known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and shopping centers.
- Folsom: A historic city with a strong connection to the Gold Rush era, now known for its recreational activities and tech companies.
- Elk Grove: One of the fastest-growing cities in California, located south of Sacramento, and a hub for residential development.
- Rancho Cordova: A business and industrial hub east of Sacramento, home to many corporate offices and business parks.
Table: Breakdown of Area Codes Serving the Sacramento Region
| Area of Sacramento Region | Primary Area Code | Overlay Area Code |
| Sacramento | 916 | 279 |
| Elk Grove | 916 | 279 |
| Folsom | 916 | 279 |
| Citrus Heights | 916 | 279 |
| Rancho Cordova | 916 | 279 |
The introduction of the 279 overlay ensures that the Sacramento region has access to more phone numbers while retaining the historical importance of the 916 area code.
How to Dial the 916 Area Code
Dialing a number with the 916 area code follows the standard North American dialing format. Since the 916 area code is now overlaid by the 279 area code, 10-digit dialing is required for all local calls, even within the same area.
Dialing from the US
- Local Calls: To dial a 916 number from within the Sacramento region, dial the 10-digit number, including the 916 area code, followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., 916-123-4567).
- Long-Distance Calls: If you’re calling a 916 number from outside the Sacramento area but within the U.S., dial 1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 916 and the local number (e.g., 1-916-123-4567).
Dialing from Abroad
When dialing a 916 number from outside the U.S., you will need to include the international dialing code for the U.S., which is +1, followed by the 916 area code and the local number. The format is as follows:
- Dial +1 916 followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., +1 916 123 4567).
This format ensures your call is routed correctly to the Sacramento region.
Also Read: 0955 What Network
Importance of the 916 Area Code for Businesses
The 916 area code is especially significant for businesses operating in Sacramento and the surrounding areas. As the political and administrative center of California, Sacramento is home to numerous government agencies, corporate headquarters, and industries that rely on reliable telecommunications. Having a local phone number with the 916 area code can help businesses establish a strong local presence and build trust with clients in the region.
Benefits for Businesses Using the 916 Area Code:
- Local Identity: A 916 area code signals that a business is based in Sacramento or the surrounding areas, helping to build trust with local customers and government agencies.
- Connection to Government: As the state capital, Sacramento is home to many state agencies and political offices. A 916 number can enhance credibility for businesses that work closely with the government.
- Access to a Growing Market: The Sacramento region is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the tech, healthcare, and education sectors. Having a local area code helps businesses tap into this expanding market.
Even businesses that are not physically located in Sacramento can obtain a 916 number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in the region.
The Future of the 916 Area Code
As Sacramento continues to grow, the 916 area code will remain a central part of the region’s telecommunications infrastructure. The introduction of the 279 overlay ensures that the area has enough phone numbers to meet the increasing demand from new residents and businesses.
While the 916 area code is still widely used, the 279 overlay is becoming more common for new phone numbers. Despite this, the 916 area code retains its historical significance and will continue to be associated with Sacramento’s political and economic landscape for years to come.
FAQs About the 916 Area Code
What areas are covered by the 916 area code?
The 916 area code covers the Sacramento metropolitan area, including cities like Citrus Heights, Folsom, Elk Grove, and Rancho Cordova.
Is the 916 area code still available for new phone numbers?
While the 916 area code is still in use, many new numbers in the region are assigned the 279 area code due to the limited availability of 916 numbers.
How do I call a number with the 916 area code from outside the U.S.?
To call a number with the 916 area code from abroad, dial +1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 916 and the 7-digit local number.
Can businesses outside of Sacramento get a 916 area code number?
Yes, businesses outside of Sacramento can acquire a 916 area code through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in the Sacramento region.
Why was the 279 area code introduced?
The 279 area code was introduced in 2018 as an overlay to the 916 area code to provide additional phone numbers for the Sacramento metropolitan area.
The 916 area code is a key part of Sacramento’s identity, serving as the primary area code for the state capital and its surrounding cities. From its history as one of California’s original area codes to its current role in supporting the region’s growth, the 916 area code has remained central to Sacramento’s political, business, and cultural landscape. As the city continues to expand, the 916 area code will remain an important part of its legacy and its future.
Whether you’re a business owner looking to establish a presence in Sacramento or a resident using the area code for everyday communication, the 916 area code is a crucial connection to one of California’s most influential regions.