Overview of Area Code 659
Area code 659 serves the central region of Alabama, including cities like Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Hoover. It was introduced in 2021 as an overlay to the 205 area code to support the growing demand for new numbers in this highly populated region. The 659 area code operates in the Central Time Zone (CT) and requires 10-digit dialing for local calls.
Cities and Counties Covered
The 659 area code covers central Alabama and overlaps with the long-established 205 area code. Major cities and areas served by 659 include:
Cities
Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Hoover, Bessemer, Alabaster, Homewood, and Vestavia Hills
Counties
Jefferson County, Shelby County, Tuscaloosa County, Walker County, and Bibb County
Why Businesses Use a 659 Number
A 659 number offers compelling benefits for businesses operating in central Alabama:
Builds Trust and Credibility
Customers in Birmingham and the surrounding metro area are more inclined to respond to a business with a familiar 659 or 205 local number.
Local Marketing and Presence
A 659 number boosts regional SEO, integrates smoothly with local directories and maps, and signals local presence to customers throughout the Birmingham-Hoover-Tuscaloosa corridor.
Increased Response Rates
Central Alabama residents often prefer answering calls and texts from local numbers, which means higher engagement and conversion potential.
Text-Enable or Port Your 659 Number
Already have a 659 number? Falkon SMS can help you text-enable your existing landline or VoIP number. We also provide number porting services so you can retain your current number and activate messaging capabilities for your business.
Enhance Your Business Operations with Falkon SMS Features
Falkon SMS offers a full suite of tools to elevate communication for businesses in the 659 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 659 Area Code
The 659 area code was implemented on November 12, 2021, as an overlay to the 205 area code — one of Alabama’s original area codes established in 1947. As Birmingham and surrounding cities grew, the demand for phone numbers exceeded 205’s capacity. The overlay model allowed existing users to retain their 205 numbers while new subscribers received 659, making 10-digit dialing mandatory throughout the region.
Dialing Guidelines
Local Calls
Dial the full 10-digit number (659-XXX-XXXX)
Long-Distance Calls
Dial 1 + 659 + 7-digit number
International
Dial +1 (659) XXX-XXXX from outside the U.S.
Economic and Cultural Importance
The 659 area code encompasses the Greater Birmingham region, a dynamic area driving economic growth and cultural influence in Alabama:
Tourism & Recreation
In 2024, tourism in Greater Birmingham generated a record $2.57 billion, supported 51,887 jobs, and contributed $302 million in state and local tax revenue.The region attracts over four million visitors annually, drawn by events like the SEC Baseball Tournament, the Magic City Classic, and the Birmingham Bowl.
Finance & Business Services
Birmingham is a major financial center, home to Regions Financial Corporation and other significant employers such as Alabama Power, American Family Care, and Amazon. The city generates over 30% of Alabama's annual GDP, underscoring its role as the state's economic engine.
Healthcare & Education
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is the state's largest employer, with approximately 20,000 employees. UAB Hospital handles nearly 2 million patient visits annually, and the university enrolls over 21,500 students.
Innovation & Technology
Birmingham has transformed into a hub for life sciences and entrepreneurs, with a growing tech sector supported by business incubators and innovation districts. The region's robust supply chain and advanced manufacturing capabilities contribute to its status as a center of excellence across industries.
Scam Warning
Beware of unsolicited calls or texts from 659 numbers. Scammers may spoof local numbers to gain trust. Always verify unfamiliar callers and never share sensitive information without confirmation.
Major Carriers
The 659 area code is supported by a wide range of telecom providers, including:
If you have a phone number with a 659 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.
