856 Area Code
The 856 area code is a telephone area code that serves southwestern New Jersey, including Camden, Gloucester, Cumberland, and Salem counties. It was established in 1999 as a split from the 609 area code. The 856 area code covers over 2,000 square miles and serves a population of approximately 1.5 million people.
History of the 856 Area Code
As mentioned earlier, the area code was established in 1999 as a split from the 609 area code. This was necessary due to the rapid growth of the region, which led to a shortage of available phone numbers. The 856 area code was created to provide additional telephone numbers to meet the demand for new phone lines.
In 2001, the area code was overlaid with the 609 area code, which meant that new phone numbers in the region could have either the 856 or the 609 area code. However, the area code remains the primary area code for southwestern New Jersey.
Geography and Demographics
The 856 area code covers a diverse range of communities in southwestern New Jersey. It includes the urban areas of Camden and Cherry Hill, as well as the suburban communities of Voorhees, Washington Township, and Gloucester Township. The region is also home to many rural communities and farmland, particularly in Cumberland and Salem counties.
The population of the area code is approximately 1.5 million people, with a median household income of $72,235. The region is diverse, with a mix of racial and ethnic backgrounds. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the largest racial/ethnic groups in the area code are White (64.8%), Black or African American (19.9%), and Hispanic or Latino (14.3%).
Economy and Industry The 856 area code has a diverse economy, with a mix of industries that include healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. The region is home to many hospitals and medical centers, including Virtua Health and Cooper University Health Care. There are also several colleges and universities in the area, including Rowan University, Camden County College, and Cumberland County College.
Manufacturing has long been a major industry in the region, particularly in Gloucester and Salem counties. The region is home to several major manufacturers, including South Jersey Industries, Chemours, and PSEG Nuclear.
Retail is also a significant industry in thhis area code, particularly in Cherry Hill and other suburban communities. The region is home to several large shopping malls, including the Cherry Hill Mall and the Deptford Mall.
Conclusion In conclusion, the area code is an important part of southwestern New Jersey, serving a diverse range of communities and industries. The region has a rich history and continues to be an important center of economic activity in the state. If you live in or visit the area code, you can be proud to be part of a vibrant and thriving region that is home to many great businesses, educational institutions, and cultural attractions.
You can also check out my post on 855 area code.
