Camden, New Jersey

Where Is Area Code 856?

Area code 856 is in southwestern New Jersey. It serves the Delaware Valley region on the New Jersey side of the Philadelphia metropolitan area. This area code covers Camden and nearby communities in South Jersey.

Area code 856 serves all of Camden, Gloucester, and Salem counties. It also serves parts of Burlington County, including communities such as Moorestown, Mount Holly, and Medford. Major cities and towns in the 856 area include Camden, Cherry Hill, Vineland, Millville, Glassboro, and Deptford.

This region includes the Delaware River along New Jersey's western border. Camden sits across the river from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Notable landmarks in the area include Rutgers University-Camden, Rowan University in Glassboro, and the Adventure Aquarium in Camden.

History of Area Code 856

Area code 856 began service on June 12, 1999. The North American Numbering Plan Administrator created it in a split from area code 609. The split added a new area code for much of southwestern New Jersey as demand for phone numbers grew.

Area code 856 later received an overlay. Area code 640 was approved as an overlay for the same region, and 10-digit dialing became required for local calls in the 856 area. The overlay preserved existing 856 numbers while adding more numbering capacity.

Key Facts About Area Code 856

• Area code 856 is in New Jersey, and Camden is one of its best-known cities.
• Area code 856 serves all of Camden County, Gloucester County, and Salem County.
• Area code 856 also serves part of Burlington County in South Jersey.
• Area code 856 was created on June 12, 1999, in a split from area code 609.
• Area code 856 is in the Eastern Time Zone.
• Area code 640 is an overlay for the same geographic area as 856.
• Major institutions in the 856 area include Rutgers University-Camden and Rowan University.
• Notable places in the 856 area include the Delaware River waterfront and Adventure Aquarium in Camden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What state is area code 856 in?

Area code 856 is in New Jersey.

What major cities use area code 856?

Major cities and communities in area code 856 include Camden, Cherry Hill, Vineland, Millville, Glassboro, Deptford, and parts of Burlington County such as Moorestown and Mount Holly.

Is area code 856 a toll-free number?

No. Area code 856 is a geographic area code in southwestern New Jersey.