Overview of Area Code 256
Area code 256 serves the northern and northeastern regions of Alabama, including cities like Huntsville, Decatur, and Gadsden. It was introduced in 1998 as a split from the 205 area code to meet the growing demand for new phone numbers. The 256 area code operates in the Central Time Zone (CT) and requires 10-digit dialing for local calls.
Cities and Counties Covered
The 256 area code spans a diverse portion of northern Alabama, covering both urban centers and rural communities. Major cities and regions served by 256 include:
Cities
Huntsville, Decatur, Gadsden, Florence, Albertville, Scottsboro, and Anniston
Counties
Madison County, Morgan County, Etowah County, Lauderdale County, Calhoun County, and Jackson County
Why Businesses Use a 256 Number
A 256 number offers several benefits for businesses in the North Alabama region:
Builds Trust and Credibility
Customers are more likely to trust and engage with a business that has a familiar, North Alabama–based 256 local area code. It shows you’re part of the community and not just another out-of-town company.
Local Marketing and Presence
A 256 local number strengthens your local SEO, supports advertising in Huntsville, Decatur, Florence, and nearby areas, and helps more North Alabama customers find and connect with you.
Increased Response Rates
People in the 256 region are more likely to answer calls from a 256 number, leading to higher response rates, more conversions, and stronger customer engagement.
Text-Enable or Port Your 256 Number
Already have a 256 number? Falkon SMS can help you text-enable your existing landline or VoIP number. We also offer number porting services, so you can retain your current number while adding powerful SMS capabilities.
Enhance Your Business Operations with Falkon SMS Features
Falkon SMS offers robust tools to support your communication efforts in the 256 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 256 Area Code
Area code 256 was introduced in March 1998 to accommodate the increasing need for phone numbers in northern Alabama. The region had previously been served solely by 205. As cities like Huntsville and Decatur grew in population and industry, especially in aerospace and defense, the demand for new numbers led to the 256 split. In 2010, area code 938 was overlaid on the same region to provide even more number availability.
Dialing Guidelines
Local Calls
Dial the full 10-digit number (256-XXX-XXXX)
Long-Distance Calls
Dial 1 + 256 + 7-digit number
International
Dial +1 (256) XXX-XXXX from outside the U.S.
Economic and Cultural Importance
The 256 area code encompasses a dynamic region of North Alabama that serves as a cornerstone of the state’s economic growth and cultural identity:
Tourism & Recreation
Home to scenic destinations like the Tennessee River, Little River Canyon, and Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, the region offers rich outdoor recreation, historical landmarks, and thriving arts scenes in cities like Florence and Huntsville.
Finance & Business Services
Huntsville and Decatur are growing hubs for business services, home to regional offices of defense contractors, engineering firms, and financial institutions supporting the aerospace and technology sectors.
Healthcare & Education
Anchored by The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and Huntsville Hospital, the area excels in education, healthcare innovation, and medical research.
Innovation & Technology
Nicknamed “Rocket City,” Huntsville boasts a thriving aerospace, defense, and technology ecosystem backed by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Redstone Arsenal, and major players like Boeing and Blue Origin.
Scam Warning
Be wary of unsolicited calls or texts from unfamiliar 256 numbers. Scammers often spoof local numbers to appear trustworthy. Always verify identities before sharing personal or business information.
Major Carriers
Several major telecommunications providers support the 256 area code, including:
If you have a phone number with a 256 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.
