Receive a local area code
281
You can get a business phone with Area Code 281 for free with Phonely. For less than $60 / Month, you can even equip your phone number with an AI phone receptionist that talks like a human and answeres FAQ's, schedules appointments, routes your calls and so much more.
Economic Overview
The 281 area code region is a diverse economic hub, anchored by the Greater Houston metropolitan area. Major industries include energy (oil and gas), petrochemicals, healthcare, aerospace, and technology, with significant employers such as ExxonMobil, Memorial Hermann Health System, and NASA’s Johnson Space Center nearby. The area also features robust retail, shipping, and manufacturing sectors, reflecting the region’s economic diversity.
Geographical Overview
Area code 281 serves Houston’s outer suburbs and surrounding communities in southeastern Texas. It covers portions of Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Montgomery, and Galveston counties, including cities like Pasadena, Pearland, Sugar Land, League City, and Baytown. The 281 area code was created to accommodate the rapidly growing population and telecommunications demand around Houston.
Location Info
The 281 area code primarily rings the outer parts of Houston, excluding most of the city’s urban core, and extends south and east to suburban and coastal communities. It overlays with area codes 713, 832, and 346, creating a complex network across the Houston metropolitan area. The coverage includes densely populated suburbs, industrial zones along the Houston Ship Channel, and stretches to Galveston Bay.
Population Demographics
The population in the 281 area code region is highly diverse, with significant Hispanic, African American, Asian, and White communities. The area features a mix of middle-class, affluent, and working-class neighborhoods, with a younger median age due to suburban growth. Large immigrant populations contribute to the cultural and linguistic diversity of the region.
Time Zone Info
Area code 281 is entirely within the Central Time Zone (CT), observing Central Standard Time (CST) and Central Daylight Time (CDT) during daylight saving time.
Other Area Code Details
Area code 281 was introduced in 1996 when the original 713 area code was split due to rapid population growth. It is part of one of the largest and most complex overlay systems in the United States, requiring ten-digit dialing for local calls. The region includes NASA’s Johnson Space Center and is known for its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and vibrant multicultural communities.
