Area code · Alabama
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The 256 area code covers Huntsville and the rest of northern Alabama, including Madison, Decatur, Florence, Gadsden, Athens, Albertville, and Oxford. It's the number people in this part of the state recognize as local. Pick 256 in the Ghost app and you can start calling and texting in minutes.
See why thousands trust Ghost for their virtual phone number
Why choose a 256 virtual phone number?
Look local to Huntsville buyers
If you're selling something online to someone in Huntsville or Madison, a 256 number signals you're nearby. Buyers are more likely to answer or text back a local area code than a number they don't recognize.
Dating in the right area code
A 256 number reads as local on dating apps for anyone matching around Huntsville, Decatur, or Florence. It's a small detail, but it matters when someone's deciding whether to reply.
Job hunting across northern Alabama
Applying for work in Huntsville, Gadsden, or Athens? A local number on your resume tells hiring managers you're already in the area, without you having to explain why.
Moving to or from the region
If you're relocating to Huntsville or Madison, you can grab a 256 number before you arrive. If you're leaving, you can keep your 256 number so calls from family and old contacts still reach you.
Keep work and life separate
Give out a second 256 number for work, side gigs, or selling on marketplaces, and keep your personal line for people you actually know.
Community recognition
People across Albertville, Oxford, and the smaller towns around Huntsville still notice a 256 number as one of their own, even as more people move in from outside the area.
How to get a 256 phone number
- 1
Pick your area code
Choose any 256 area code, or any other US or Canadian code.
- 2
Choose your number
See available numbers instantly and pick the one you like.
- 3
Start calling and texting
Your number works over WiFi or data for everyday calling and texting. No SIM card, no new phone plan.
- 4
Stay in control
Mute it, set it to Do Not Disturb, or delete and replace it whenever you want.
Ghost can't be used for 911 or emergency calls, so keep your regular line for those.
Get My 256 NumberAbout the 256 area code
Area code
256
State
Alabama
Overlay code
938
Cities served
12+
The 256 area code serves Huntsville and the surrounding cities of Madison, Decatur, Florence, Gadsden, Athens, Albertville, and Oxford, covering a wide stretch of northern Alabama.
The 938 area code overlays the same region as 256, meaning both codes serve the same cities and calls between them work like any local call. You don't need to worry about which one you get for calls to connect within the area.
The entire region runs on Central Time. If you're calling contacts in Huntsville or Decatur from elsewhere, keep that in mind, since much of the country nearby runs on Eastern Time instead.
Coverage from public numbering and census data. Sources
Local economy
Why do business in Huntsville?
Huntsville anchors a northern Alabama economy built around advanced manufacturing, technology, and regional healthcare, with Decatur, Florence, and Gadsden supporting industry throughout the area.
Advanced Manufacturing
Huntsville and the surrounding cities host manufacturing and engineering work that draws workers from across northern Alabama.
Technology and Engineering
Huntsville's tech and engineering base brings in workers and job seekers who often want a local number before they even move.
Healthcare
Regional hospitals and clinics in Huntsville, Decatur, and Florence serve patients from across the 256 area, supporting steady healthcare employment throughout the region.
256 numbers by city
Frequently asked questions
How fast can I get a 256 phone number?
You can pick a 256 number in the Ghost app and start using it in minutes. Choose the area code, confirm your number, and you're ready to call and text.
Which cities use the 256 area code?
The 256 area code covers Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Florence, Gadsden, Athens, Albertville, and Oxford in northern Alabama.
Is 256 the only area code for Huntsville?
No. The 938 area code overlays the same region, so both 256 and 938 numbers serve Huntsville and the surrounding cities. You can still choose 256 specifically in the Ghost app.
How much does Ghost cost?
Ghost Premium is $60 every 2 months and includes 5 phone numbers, unlimited calling and texting in the US and Canada, your choice of area code, and the ability to delete and replace your number. Cancel anytime. No contracts.
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