Area code 209 covers a large section of California's Central Valley and Sierra Foothills, including cities such as Stockton, Modesto, Merced, and Sonora. It was created in 1958 as a split from area code 415 and originally covered much of the northern and central parts of the state. Over time, area code 559 was created from 209 due to population growth in the region. Today, 209 represents a mix of agriculture, small towns, and growing urban centers. The area code is a point of pride for residents and is often used in local business branding and community identity. With a diverse economy ranging from farming to education, 209 remains a key part of California’s heartland. An overlay area code, 350, has been approved and is expected to go into service in 2025 to address number exhaustion.