The Story Behind the 904: A Tale of Northeast Florida's Iconic Area Code
Northeast Florida is more than just a geographical location; it's a vibrant community, brimming with history, culture, and a unique identity. At the heart of this identity lies the iconic area code 904, a symbol that unites residents and signifies the pride of living in this dynamic region.
History of Florida Area Codes:
Originally in 1947, the state of Florida was a single numbering plan area with area code 305.
As population growth and urban development surged, Florida experienced several area code splits and additions to accommodate the increasing demand for telephone services.
In 1953, the southwestern portion of Florida split, from the original 305 area code and was assigned area code 813. This split was necessitated by the rapid growth of cities like Tampa and St. Petersburg.
In 1965, as part of another split, the northern half of Florida, including Jacksonville and Duval County, received its own area code, 904. This split was prompted by the need to alleviate congestion in the original 305 area code.
Further changes occurred in 1988 when the east coast of Florida, from Palm Beach County north through Brevard County, as well as the Orlando metropolitan area, were assigned area code 407. This split aimed to address the increasing population and telecommunications demands in these regions.
As of 2023, Florida is served by twenty-two telephone area codes due to the growing demand for phone numbers.
Now We Dial 10 Numbers:
With the tremendous growth in Northeast Florida, available numbers in the 904 area code are expected to run out by 2024. A new area code, 324 has been introduced to cover the same geographic region. Instead of dialing a seven digit number, the area code must be added for the call to be connected. As the 904 area code nears depletion, its remaining numbers become increasingly coveted, imbuing it with a sense of exclusivity and uniqueness.
For decades, the 904 area code has been more than just a series of numbers; it's a badge of honor worn by residents who proudly proclaim, "I'm from the 904." From the pristine beaches of St. Johns County to the historic landmarks of Duval County, the 904 area code represents a diverse tapestry of communities, each contributing to the rich tapestry of North East Florida.
Despite the introduction of a new area code, the spirit of the 904 remains unwavering. It continues to serve as a beacon of community pride, connecting residents across North East Florida and beyond. Whether you're making a call from a landline or sending a text from your smartphone, the numbers 904 will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who call this region home.
Rep the 904:
Whether you're sporting a 904 area code on your phone or not, if you call Northeast Florida home, our '904 Life' t-shirt is the perfect way to show your pride for the vibrant communities of Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Amelia Island, and St. Johns County. Featuring the iconic numbers 904 on the front, this tee embodies the spirit of our region and celebrates the unique culture and lifestyle that define us. Love where you live and rep it proudly with our '904 Life' shirt. By supporting local 904 businesses like ours, you're not just wearing a shirt; you're making a statement about the strength and unity of our community. Join us in representing the 904 and spreading the love for Northeast Florida wherever you go!
