The 940 area code serves a large portion of North Texas, covering a region that includes both rural areas and important urban centers. Introduced in 1997, the 940 area code plays a crucial role in connecting a region known for its agricultural base, growing industrial sector, and proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. The 940 area code includes cities such as Denton, Wichita Falls, and Gainesville.
In this article, we’ll explore the 940 area code, its geographic coverage, history, and why it’s important for residents and businesses in North Texas.
What Is the 940 Area Code?
The 940 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves North Texas, covering a mix of urban centers, rural towns, and growing suburban communities. It includes a significant area in the northern part of the state, stretching westward toward the Texas-Oklahoma border and reaching into the northern outskirts of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
What Areas Does the 940 Area Code Cover?
The 940 area code serves a variety of cities, towns, and rural communities in North Texas. Some of the key areas served by the 940 area code include:
- Denton
- Wichita Falls
- Gainesville
- Decatur
- Bowie
- Sanger
- Sherman
- Lake Dallas
- Graham
- Nocona
These cities and towns represent a blend of growing suburban regions, agricultural communities, and small industrial centers that are vital to the local economy.
History of the 940 Area Code
The 940 area code was created on July 7, 1997, as a split from the 817 area code, which originally covered a larger portion of North Texas, including the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The split was necessary to accommodate the growing population and increased demand for phone numbers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and surrounding regions.
Timeline of Key Events in 940 Area Code History:
- 1947: The 214 area code is introduced, covering the entire northern portion of Texas.
- 1953: The 817 area code is created as a split from 214, covering the Fort Worth area and parts of North Texas.
- 1997: The 940 area code is created as a split from 817, covering North Texas outside of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Since its introduction, the 940 area code has become integral to supporting the telecommunications needs of the growing North Texas region, particularly in cities like Denton and Wichita Falls.
Why the 940 Area Code Is Important
Serving Key Urban Centers Like Denton and Wichita Falls
The 940 area code serves several major urban centers, including Denton and Wichita Falls. Denton is known for its vibrant arts scene and is home to two major universities: The University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University (TWU). The city’s growing population and diverse economy make it a central hub for education, culture, and business in the 940 area code.
Wichita Falls, another key city in the 940 area, is an important center for manufacturing, military operations (with Sheppard Air Force Base located nearby), and healthcare. The 940 area code supports the city’s business and industrial growth, ensuring residents and businesses stay connected.
Supporting Growing Suburban and Rural Communities
The 940 area code covers many smaller towns and rural communities that are part of North Texas’ agricultural backbone. Cities like Decatur, Gainesville, and Bowie are crucial for the region’s agricultural industry, which includes livestock, grain production, and other farming operations. The 940 area code ensures these rural communities remain connected to larger markets and economic centers, supporting both local businesses and residents.
Connecting Industrial and Educational Hubs
In addition to its agricultural focus, the 940 area code serves growing industrial hubs and educational institutions. Denton, for example, is a major educational center with both UNT and TWU, which together attract thousands of students and faculty to the area. The 940 area code plays a vital role in connecting these universities to the local and regional communities.
Cities like Gainesville and Decatur also have expanding industrial sectors that benefit from the telecommunications services provided by the 940 area code, helping these communities attract new businesses and economic development.
940 Area Code and Neighboring Regions
The 940 area code is bordered by several other area codes that serve different parts of North Texas and neighboring states. Some of the neighboring area codes include:
- 214/469/972: Covers the Dallas metropolitan area and its surrounding suburbs.
- 817/682: Serves the Fort Worth area and surrounding suburbs in North Texas.
- 580: Covers areas of Southern Oklahoma, including Lawton and Durant.
- 903/430: Serves Northeastern Texas, including cities like Tyler and Longview.
Together, these area codes ensure that North Texas and its surrounding regions are well-covered by telecommunications services.
Aslo Read: 941 Area Code
What Does It Mean to Have a 940 Area Code?
For residents and businesses in North Texas, having a 940 area code signifies being part of a region that is rapidly growing, economically diverse, and culturally rich. Whether you live in Denton, work in Wichita Falls, or run a business in Gainesville, a 940 phone number connects you to one of the most important regions of Texas.
For businesses, a 940 phone number helps establish a local presence in a region that spans urban centers, industrial hubs, and rural communities. Whether you operate in agriculture, manufacturing, education, or retail, a 940 number ensures that you stay connected to customers and partners throughout North Texas and beyond.
FAQs About the 940 Area Code
Is 940 still a valid area code?
Yes, the 940 area code is still valid and actively used in North Texas, including cities like Denton, Wichita Falls, and Gainesville. It continues to serve both residential and business needs in this growing region.
Can I get a phone number with the 940 area code?
Yes, it is possible to get a 940 phone number, though availability may depend on the specific area and demand. The 940 area code is still in use for new phone numbers in North Texas.
Is the 940 area code only for landlines?
No, the 940 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 940 area code?
If you are making a long-distance call to a 940 number, you may need to dial 1 before the area code and phone number. For local calls within the 940 area code region, 10-digit dialing (area code + phone number) is typically required.
What other area codes are near the 940 area code?
The 940 area code is bordered by several other area codes, including:
- 214/469/972: Covers Dallas and its surrounding suburbs.
- 817/682: Covers Fort Worth and nearby areas.
- 580: Serves areas of Southern Oklahoma.
- 903/430: Covers Northeastern Texas.
These area codes, along with 940, provide telecommunications services across North Texas and neighboring states.
The 940 area code is a vital part of the telecommunications network serving North Texas, including cities like Denton, Wichita Falls, and Gainesville. Introduced in 1997, the 940 area code has supported the region’s growth and development for more than two decades, ensuring that residents and businesses have access to reliable phone services.
For residents and businesses alike, having a 940 phone number represents a connection to one of Texas’ most diverse and rapidly expanding regions. Whether you’re living in Decatur, working in Denton, or running a business in Wichita Falls, the 940 area code keeps you connected to the heart of North Texas.