Overview of Area Code 251
Area code 251 serves the southwestern region of Alabama, including cities like Mobile, Daphne, and Fairhope. It was introduced in 2001 as a split from area code 334 to accommodate increasing demand in the Gulf Coast region. Area code 251 operates in the Central Time Zone (CT) and requires 10-digit dialing for local calls.
Cities and Counties Covered
The 251 area code covers coastal and southwestern Alabama, including portions of Mobile, Baldwin, and Washington counties. Major cities and regions served by 251 include:
Cities
Mobile, Daphne, Fairhope, Prichard, Saraland, Foley, and Bay Minette
Counties
Mobile County, Baldwin County, and Washington County
Why Businesses Use a 251 Number
A 251 number offers several benefits for businesses in the Gulf Coast region of Alabama:
Builds Trust and Credibility
Customers are more likely to trust and engage with a business that has a familiar, 251 Alabama-based local area code. It shows you’re part of the community and invested in serving local customers.
Local Marketing and Presence
A 251 local number strengthens your local SEO, enhances map listings, and complements local advertising—making it easier for customers across Mobile, Baldwin, and Washington counties to find and connect with you.
Increased Response Rates
South Alabama residents are far more likely to answer calls from a 251 number, helping you boost pick-up rates, conversions, and overall engagement.
Text-Enable or Port Your 251 Number
Already have a 251 number? Falkon SMS can help you text-enable your existing landline or VoIP number. We also offer number porting services, allowing you to keep your current number while activating full text messaging capabilities.
Enhance Your Business Operations with Falkon SMS Features
Falkon SMS provides valuable tools to streamline communications for businesses in the 251 area code:
Group Texting
Reach large audiences with a single text to announce promotions or send updates.
Auto Replies
Stay responsive even after hours with automated responses.
Message Scheduling
Schedule texts in advance to ensure timely delivery, no matter where you are.
Time Zone Details
Standard Time:
Eastern Standard Time (EST) – UTC−5
Daylight Saving
Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) – UTC−4
DST in 2025
Begins on March 9, 2025, and ends on November 2, 2025
History of the 251 Area Code
Area code 251 was established in 2001, splitting from 334 to better serve Alabama’s growing Gulf Coast region. The change was driven by rising demand from expanding businesses and increased residential development in and around Mobile. Since its introduction, 251 has supported communication infrastructure throughout southwest Alabama, including the state’s only seaport.
Dialing Guidelines
Local Calls
Dial the full 10-digit number (251-XXX-XXXX)
Long-Distance Calls
Dial 1 + 251 + 7-digit number
International
Dial +1 (251) XXX-XXXX from outside the U.S.
Economic and Cultural Importance
The 251 area code, covering Mobile and the central Gulf Coast of Alabama, is a region known for its strong economy, coastal charm, and deep cultural roots.
Tourism & Recreation
The 251 region thrives on tourism, thanks to its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, historic downtown Mobile, and annual celebrations like Mardi Gras, which originated here before New Orleans. Popular destinations such as Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Dauphin Island draw millions of visitors each year.
Finance & Business Services
Mobile is a major port city, home to one of the largest deep-water ports in the U.S. The Port of Mobile supports international trade, shipbuilding, and logistics industries. Companies like Austal USA and Airbus have helped make the region a leader in aerospace and manufacturing.
Healthcare & Education
The area is anchored by institutions like the University of South Alabama and USA Health, which contribute to regional growth in healthcare, research, and higher education.
Innovation & Technology
With major employers like Airbus and Austal USA, the region is advancing in aerospace, shipbuilding, and industrial innovation supported by a growing tech and manufacturing base.
Scam Warning
Be cautious of scam calls or texts from numbers using the 251 area code. Scammers may spoof local numbers to appear credible. Always verify unfamiliar callers before sharing personal or business information.
Major Carriers
The 251 area code is supported by major telecommunications providers, including:
If you have a phone number with a 251 area code and want to enable text messaging capabilities, Falkon SMS can help. Whether it's a landline, VoIP number, or business line, we offer reliable solutions to text-enable your existing number.
