The 256 area code
The 256 area code covers Alexander City, AL, in the Central time zone. Here is which cities use it, the current local time, the codes it overlays, how 256 numbers are written, and how to get a local 256 number for your business.
256 covers Alexander City, AL. It sits in the Central time zone, where it is currently 10:26 PM. It shares that ground with 938, so ten-digit dialling is required. Numbers are written as (256) XXX-XXXX.
Where is the 256 area code?
The 256 area code serves Alexander City, AL. It is one of the active area codes in the North American Numbering Plan, the system that assigns phone numbers across the United States, Canada, and nearby regions. A caller seeing a 256 number knows, at a glance, that the line is tied to Alexander City, AL.
What cities use the 256 area code?
These are the places with numbering prefixes in 256, the ones with the most prefixes first:
Huntsville accounts for the largest share of 256 prefixes, with Decatur and Anniston next. A local number in any of them reads as local to everyone else on the list, because they all dial on 256.
Which area codes overlay 256?
256 is part of an overlay complex with 938. An overlay puts more than one area code over the same geography instead of splitting the region in two, so existing numbers keep their code and new ones get the added code. Two neighbours on the same street can hold different area codes. That is why ten-digit dialling is required here: you cannot assume a local call shares your area code.
What time is it in the 256 area code?
The 256 area code is in the Central time zone. Right now it is about 10:26 PM there. If you are calling a 256 number, check the local time first so you reach someone during business hours. If you run a business on a 256 line, missing a call after hours means the caller moves on to the next name on their list.
How to write a 256 phone number
A full 256 number is ten digits: the three-digit area code, then a three-digit prefix, then a four-digit line number. It is usually written as (256) XXX-XXXX, or 256-XXX-XXXX. To dial it from outside the United States, add the country code: +1 256 XXX XXXX.
Getting a local 256 number for your business
People are far more likely to answer a call from a local number. If you do business in Huntsville, Decatur and Anniston, a 256 number tells customers you are one of them, not an out-of-town call center. A virtual phone service can assign you a 256 number in minutes, no new hardware required.
The catch is answering it. A local number only helps if someone picks up. HiThisIs gives you a local number and a front desk that answers every call on the first ring, day or night, has a real conversation, and texts you the lead in seconds. It is a fraction of the cost of a human answering service, from $99 a month. See plans and pricing, or hear it answer on your own phone.
Common questions about the 256 area code
Where is the 256 area code?
The 256 area code covers Alexander City, AL, in the Central time zone.
What cities use the 256 area code?
Huntsville, Decatur, Anniston, Gadsden, Athens, Madison, Cullman and Talladega all have numbering prefixes in 256.
What time zone is the 256 area code in?
The 256 area code is in the Central time zone. The current local time there is 10:26 PM.
Does 256 overlay another area code?
Yes. 256 is part of an overlay complex with 938. An overlay puts more than one area code over the same geography, which is why ten-digit dialling is required there: two neighbours can hold different area codes on the same street.
Is 256 a real area code?
Yes. 256 is an active North American Numbering Plan area code serving Alexander City, AL.
How do I get a 256 phone number for my business?
A virtual phone service can assign you a local 256 number so customers in Huntsville, Decatur and Anniston see a familiar area code when you call, and so your business looks local. HiThisIs includes a local number with every plan and answers it around the clock.