The area code 256 is located in Decatur, Alabama.
Area code 256 serves Decatur and much of north and northeast Alabama, stretching across the Tennessee Valley. Decatur, known as “The River City,” sits on the Tennessee River and anchors a busy corridor between Huntsville and the Shoals. This area code connects homes, schools, and businesses across a region known for space, defense, and advanced manufacturing. For local callers and visitors, a 256 phone number signals a strong tie to North Alabama’s growing communities.
You’ll find area code 256 on phone numbers in these major cities and towns:
These cities share drivers like the Tennessee Valley economy, key roadways such as I‑65, I‑565, and U.S. 72, and landmarks that draw visitors year‑round.
History and dialing: 256 was created in 1998 from area code 205 to handle growth in North Alabama. In 2010, the overlay area code 938 was added, so 10‑digit dialing is standard across the region. The 256/938 area includes major sites like Redstone Arsenal, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, plus Decatur favorites like Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and Point Mallard Park. A 256 or 938 number reaches the same geographic area, making it easy to recognize North Alabama calls.
Statistic: 256 established in 1998; 938 overlay added in 2010 (North American Numbering Plan Administrator).