Overview of Area Code 520
Area code 520 serves the southern portion of Arizona, including cities like Tucson, Sierra Vista, and Nogales. It was introduced in 1995 as a split from the 602 area code to address the growing population and rising demand for phone numbers. The 520 area code operates in the Mountain Standard Time Zone (MST) and does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Cities and Counties Covered
The 520 area code covers southern Arizona and parts of southeastern and central Arizona. Major cities and regions served by 520 include:
Cities
Tucson, Sierra Vista, Casa Grande, Nogales, Douglas, Green Valley, and Marana
Counties
Pima County, Cochise County, Santa Cruz County, Pinal County, and Graham County
Why Businesses Use a 520 Number
A 520 number offers several benefits for businesses in southern Arizona:
Builds Trust and Credibility
Customers are more likely to trust and engage with a business that has a familiar, Tucson-based 520 local area code.
Local Marketing and Presence
A 520 local number enhances local SEO, complements advertising and map listings, and helps more customers in Pima, Cochise, and Santa Cruz Counties find you.
Increased Response Rates
Tucson and southern Arizona residents are more likely to answer 520 numbers, improving pick-up rates, conversions, and engagement.
Text-Enable or Port Your 520 Number
Already have a 520 number? Falkon SMS can help you text-enable your existing landline or VoIP. We also offer number porting services, allowing you to keep your current number while adding text messaging capabilities.
Enhance Your Business Operations with Falkon SMS Features
Falkon SMS provides essential tools to improve communication for businesses in the 520 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:
Mountain Standard Time (MST) – UTC−7
Daylight Saving
Does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST)
DST in 2026
Begins on March 8, 2026, and ends on November 1, 2026
History of the 520 Area Code
The 520 area code was established in 1995 after being split from the 602 code to accommodate growth in the Tucson area and southern Arizona. As the population expanded in Tucson and nearby cities, the demand for new phone lines rose. Today, 520 serves as a key identifier for the region and remains an essential part of Arizona’s communications infrastructure.
Dialing Guidelines
Local Calls
Dial the full 10-digit number (520-XXX-XXXX)
Long-Distance Calls
Dial 1 + 520 + 7-digit number
International
Dial +1 (520) XXX-XXXX from outside the U.S.
Economic and Cultural Importance
The 520 area code includes Tucson and its surrounding areas, which are central to Arizona’s economic and cultural activity.
Tourism & Recreation
With landmarks like Saguaro National Park, historic Tombstone, and Mt. Lemmon, the region draws tourists year-round for desert scenery and southwestern heritage.
Finance & Business Services
Tucson is a growing center for business services and government contractors, supporting regional economic development.
Healthcare & Education
Home to the University of Arizona and major healthcare providers like Banner Health, the area is a hub for education, medical research, and clinical services.
Innovation & Technology
With defense and aerospace companies like Raytheon, plus a growing biotech and solar energy sector, Tucson is advancing in high-tech industries.
Scam Warning
Be cautious of scam calls or texts from numbers using the 520 area code. Scammers may use spoofed local numbers to seem trustworthy. Always verify unknown contacts before sharing personal or financial details.
Major Carriers
The 520 area code is supported by major telecommunications providers, including:
If you have a phone number with the 520 area code and want to enable text messaging, Falkon SMS can help. Whether it’s a landline, VoIP, or mobile business number, we provide reliable services to text-enable your existing number.
