Alabama · Central Time
Birmingham, AL Area Codes
Birmingham is served by 2 area codes (205, 659). Here's which is original, which are overlays, and how to pick one for a new local number.
Last updated October 1, 2026
Area codes serving Birmingham
Birmingham sits in Alabama, part of the South region and the Central Time zone. Its numbers are spread across an overlay of 2 codes that all cover the same ground: 205, 659.
The original code is 205 (in service since 1947). As the area ran low on numbers, regulators added overlay codes on top instead of splitting the city, so longtime residents kept their numbers while new lines received a newer code.
| Code | Area served | In service |
|---|---|---|
| 205 | Birmingham, Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties in west-central Alabama | January 1, 1947 |
| 659 | Birmingham, Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties in west-central Alabama | November 12, 2019 |
Nearby cities sharing these area codes
- Tuscaloosa
- Hoover
- Vestavia Hills
- Bessemer
- Homewood
- Alabaster
- Pelham
- Mountain Brook
- Northport
- Trussville
- Jasper
- Pell City
- Gardendale
How to pick an area code for a new number
When you activate a new line in Birmingham, the carrier assigns whichever code has numbers available — you usually can't choose. If a specific code matters to you (for example the prestige of 205), ask the carrier whether any blocks remain, or request a number transfer. All codes here dial identically and cost the same.
Dialing in Birmingham
Because Birmingham is an overlay area, 10-digit dialing is mandatory: always dial the area code plus the seven-digit number, even for a neighbor. See 10-digit dialing and overlay area codes for the background. For every code in Alabama, visit the Alabama area codes page.
Quick answers
Birmingham area code FAQ
What area codes does Birmingham use?
Birmingham, AL is served by 2 area codes: 205, 659.
Which is the original Birmingham area code?
205 is the original code for Birmingham, in service since 1947; the others were added later for more numbers.
Do I need to dial the area code in Birmingham?
Yes. With multiple overlapping codes, 10-digit dialing is required for every call in this area.