Austin, Texas
Area code 512
Where Is Area Code 512?
Area code 512 is in south-central Texas, with its core service area centered on Austin. It serves parts of the Austin metropolitan area and nearby communities in the Texas Hill Country and along the Interstate 35 corridor.
Area code 512 covers major cities such as Austin, San Marcos, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Bastrop. It also serves communities in counties that include Travis County, Williamson County, Hays County, and Bastrop County.
Area code 512 reaches a region known for the Colorado River, which runs through Austin and forms Lady Bird Lake in the city. Notable landmarks in the 512 area include the Texas State Capitol in Austin, the University of Texas at Austin, and parts of the Hill Country west of the city.
History of Area Code 512
Area code 512 was created in 1947 as one of the original area codes in the North American Numbering Plan. At that time, it covered a much larger part of south Texas than it does today.
Area code 512 was reduced in size through later splits as telephone demand grew in Texas. In 1992, area code 210 was created from part of 512, and in 1999, area code 830 was created from another part of 512. In 2013, area code 737 began overlay service for the same geographic area as 512, which made 10-digit dialing necessary in the region.
Key Facts About Area Code 512
- Area code 512 is in Texas, and Austin is its best-known city.
- Area code 512 is in the Central Time Zone.
- Area code 512 is an original 1947 area code in the North American Numbering Plan.
- Area code 512 serves part of the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos region in central Texas.
- Area code 512 shares the same geographic service area with overlay area code 737, which began service in 2013.
- Area code 512 covers notable institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin and Texas State University in San Marcos.
- Area code 512 includes major civic landmarks such as the Texas State Capitol in Austin.
- Area code 512 serves a fast-growing region, but the exact population depends on the specific counties and rate centers included in the numbering plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What state is area code 512 in?
Area code 512 is in Texas.
What major cities use area code 512?
Major cities in area code 512 include Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, San Marcos, and Bastrop.
Is area code 512 a toll-free number?
No, area code 512 is a geographic area code for central Texas.
Last updated: April 2026