Charleston, West Virginia

Where Is Area Code 681?

Area code 681 is in West Virginia. It serves the entire state as an overlay on area code 304, including Charleston, the state capital, and communities in every region of West Virginia.

Major cities that use area code 681 include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Parkersburg, Wheeling, Martinsburg, and Beckley. Because 681 covers the same area as 304, it also reaches many counties, small towns, and rural communities across all 55 counties in the state.

The area includes notable parts of the Appalachian region. It also covers well-known places such as the Kanawha River area in Charleston, West Virginia University in Morgantown, and the New River Gorge region in southern West Virginia.

History of Area Code 681

Area code 681 began service on March 28, 2009. The North American Numbering Plan Administrator added it as an overlay to area code 304, which had served West Virginia since 1947.

Area code 304 is one of the original North American area codes, and West Virginia had used only 304 for decades. The 681 overlay was created because the supply of available phone numbers under 304 was shrinking, largely due to growth in wireless phones, fax lines, and other telecommunications services. After the overlay began, 10-digit dialing became necessary for local calls in West Virginia.

Key Facts About Area Code 681

• Area code 681 is in the state of West Virginia.
• Area code 681 serves Charleston, which is the capital and largest city in West Virginia.
• Area code 681 is in the Eastern Time Zone.
• Area code 681 is an overlay of area code 304, not a split from it.
• Area code 681 began service on March 28, 2009.
• Area code 681 covers the same statewide service area as area code 304, including all 55 West Virginia counties.
• Area code 681 serves major institutions such as West Virginia University in Morgantown and Marshall University in Huntington.
• Area code 681 covers notable landmarks and destinations including the State Capitol in Charleston and the New River Gorge area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What state is area code 681 in?

Area code 681 is in West Virginia.

What major cities use area code 681?

Major cities that use area code 681 include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Parkersburg, Wheeling, Martinsburg, and Beckley.

Is area code 681 a toll-free number?

No. Area code 681 is a geographic area code for West Virginia.