Texas · Central Time
Houston, TX Area Codes
Houston is served by 5 area codes (281, 346, 621, 713, 832). 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 Houston
Houston sits in Texas, part of the South region and the Central Time zone. Its numbers are spread across an overlay of 5 codes that all cover the same ground: 281, 346, 621, 713, 832.
The original code is 713 (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 |
|---|---|---|
| 281 | Greater Houston, including Harris County and surrounding suburbs in southeast Texas | November 2, 1996 |
| 346 | Greater Houston, including Harris County and surrounding suburbs in southeast Texas | July 1, 2014 |
| 621 | Greater Houston, including Harris County and surrounding suburbs in southeast Texas | January 23, 2025 |
| 713 | Greater Houston, including Harris County and surrounding suburbs in southeast Texas | January 1, 1947 |
| 832 | Greater Houston, including Harris County and surrounding suburbs in southeast Texas | January 16, 1999 |
Nearby cities sharing these area codes
- Pasadena
- Pearland
- Sugar Land
- League City
- Baytown
- Missouri City
- Katy
- Humble
- Friendswood
- Tomball
- Stafford
- Bellaire
How to pick an area code for a new number
When you activate a new line in Houston, 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 713), ask the carrier whether any blocks remain, or request a number transfer. All codes here dial identically and cost the same.
Dialing in Houston
Because Houston 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 Texas, visit the Texas area codes page.
Quick answers
Houston area code FAQ
What area codes does Houston use?
Houston, TX is served by 5 area codes: 281, 346, 621, 713, 832.
Which is the original Houston area code?
713 is the original code for Houston, in service since 1947; the others were added later for more numbers.
Do I need to dial the area code in Houston?
Yes. With multiple overlapping codes, 10-digit dialing is required for every call in this area.