what area code is 953

2 min read 22-12-2024

The area code 953 is a relatively new area code introduced to alleviate the growing demand for phone numbers in California. It overlays existing area codes, meaning it serves the same geographic region as other area codes, primarily in the northern part of the state. This means you might encounter the 953 area code alongside others in the same general location.

Understanding Area Code Overlays

Before diving deeper into the specifics of 953, let's clarify what an area code overlay means. Traditionally, each area code was assigned to a specific geographic region. However, with the proliferation of cell phones and other communication devices, the number of available phone numbers in some areas became depleted. To address this, area code overlays were implemented.

An overlay means a new area code is added to an existing area, sharing the same geographic region. This increases the pool of available phone numbers without requiring a change to existing numbers already in use. This is why you may see calls coming from multiple area codes within the same city or region.

Which Cities and Regions Use Area Code 953?

Area code 953 covers a significant portion of Northern California. While a precise city-by-city list is constantly evolving due to the overlay nature, you'll find this area code used in many communities within the regions that previously shared other area codes. To be absolutely certain if a specific location uses 953, a reverse phone lookup or a local phone directory is recommended.

Key Regions Served by 953:

Parts of Sacramento: The capital city of California shares phone numbers across multiple area codes including 953 due to the overlay.
Surrounding Sacramento Counties: Several counties surrounding Sacramento also utilize the 953 area code.
Northern California's Central Valley: The 953 overlay extends into portions of California's Central Valley.

How to Find the Location of a 953 Number

If you've received a call from a 953 number and want to determine its origin, there are a few reliable methods:

Reverse Phone Lookup: Numerous online services offer reverse phone lookups, allowing you to enter the phone number and receive information about its potential location. Be aware that these services often require a paid subscription for full details.
Online White Pages: Websites similar to traditional phone directories allow you to search for numbers based on area code and often provide the associated city or region.
Contact the Caller: The simplest approach is often to answer the call and politely inquire about the caller's location.

What to Do If You're Affected by the 953 Overlay

If your phone number is within a region using the 953 overlay, you likely won't need to change your number. The overlay system is designed to add capacity without disrupting existing phone numbers. However, be aware that you might see calls originating from 953 or other overlapping area codes.

Conclusion

Area code 953 serves a large portion of Northern California as part of an overlay system designed to manage the growing demand for phone numbers. Understanding this overlay system helps clarify why multiple area codes might be used within the same region. By using the methods described above, you can easily determine the approximate location of a 953 number. Remember to always exercise caution when receiving calls from unknown numbers, regardless of area code.