Receive a local area code
205
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Economic Overview
The 205 area code region has a diverse economy, with major industries including healthcare, higher education, manufacturing, steel production, banking, and telecommunications. Major employers include the University of Alabama, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, UAB Health System, and several automotive suppliers. The region is also a hub for retail, logistics, and government services.
Geographical Overview
Area code 205 covers central and west-central Alabama, including significant cities such as Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Bessemer, and Northport. It spans portions of Jefferson, Tuscaloosa, Shelby, Bibb, Pickens, and Walker counties, among others. This area code primarily serves the Birmingham-Hoover and Tuscaloosa metropolitan areas.
Location Info
205 is bounded roughly by the Birmingham metropolitan area and the city of Tuscaloosa, extending west to the Mississippi border and including cities such as Fairfield, Hueytown, Jasper, and Aliceville. Its coverage is surrounded by area codes 659 (as an overlay), 256/938 to the north and east, and 334 to the south and southeast. The area code excludes most of the eastern and southern suburbs of Birmingham since the introduction of 659 and 334.
Population Demographics
The 205 area code region is home to a diverse population of over 1 million people, with significant African American and White communities. It includes a large student population due to the University of Alabama and UAB, as well as a mix of urban, suburban, and rural residents. The area features a blend of young professionals, families, and retirees.
Time Zone Info
Area code 205 is located entirely within the Central Time Zone (CT).
Other Area Code Details
205 was one of the original area codes established in 1947 and once covered the entire state of Alabama before being split multiple times. It is now overlaid by area code 659, requiring ten-digit dialing for local calls. The region includes the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa and historic Civil Rights landmarks in Birmingham.
