Area code 856 serves southwestern New Jersey, including Camden, Cherry Hill, Vineland, and the suburbs of Philadelphia. It was created in 1999 from a split of area code 609 to accommodate the growing population in the southern part of the state. The 856 area includes a mix of suburban communities, industrial zones, and agricultural areas, with a strong economic and commuter connection to nearby Philadelphia. It remains a standalone area code and is commonly used in local business names and community branding. 856 is a key part of New Jersey’s telecommunications network and a strong regional identifier.