What You Need to Know About the 904 Area Code

If you’ve dialed a phone number in Jacksonville or surrounding regions, chances are you’ve come across the 904 area code. This popular area code isn’t just a set of numbers—it’s a staple of North Florida’s identity, tying communities together with a unique sense of pride and connection. Whether you’re a local, a business owner, or someone considering a move to the area, the code plays a bigger role than you might expect.

This guide will help you understand all there is to know about the code. We’ll explore where it’s used, its history, how it benefits businesses, and why it’s tied so deeply to local culture.

Where Is the 904 Area Code Used?

Major Cities and Towns Covered

The 904 area code covers North Florida, specifically the First Coast region. Its largest city is Jacksonville, but the area code also branches out to nearby towns like St. Augustine, Orange Park, Fernandina Beach, and Middleburg. Essentially, if you’re calling someone within these regions, you’ll likely be dialing a 904 number.

Counties Included in the 904 Area Code

The 904 region encompasses several counties, including Duval, Clay, St. Johns, and Nassau counties. This area code consolidates a broad and bustling part of Florida, which is home to beaches, historic landmarks, and fast-growing communities.

A Brief History of the 904 Area Code

The Creation of 904

The 904 area code was introduced in 1965 as the designated area code for much of northern Florida. It originally served a much larger region, stretching beyond Jacksonville to places like Gainesville and Tampa. Back then, it was a crucial development to meet the increasing telecommunications needs of the state.

Splits Over Time

However, as Florida grew, so did its need for additional area codes. By the 1990s, population booms and increased demand for phone lines led to the splitting of the 904 area code.

• 1995: Areas like Orlando and Gainesville transitioned to the 352 area code.
• 1997: Cities along the Panhandle adopted the 850 area code.

Today, 904 is dedicated exclusively to Jacksonville and the counties surrounding it, giving the area code a tight-knit cultural identity.

The Cultural Significance of 904

A Sense of Pride

For residents of Jacksonville and neighboring towns, the code is much more than just digits—it’s a badge of honor. Locals often refer to themselves as part of the “904 family,” a phrase that builds a sense of community and regional pride.

The area even celebrates “904 Day” annually on September 4th, an unofficial holiday where locals highlight everything that makes Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and the surrounding areas special. From beaches to professional sports teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, 904 Day is all about showcasing First Coast culture.

Local Businesses and Branding

Many Jacksonville-based businesses also incorporate “904” in their branding to emphasize local roots and resonate with the community. Whether it’s a craft brewery, coffee shop, or clothing brand, using the area code in names or marketing materials taps into the pride locals feel about being part of the 904.

Benefits of the 904 Area Code for Businesses

If you’re a business owner in the region, having a 904 number offers distinct advantages for building credibility and connecting with customers.

Establish Local Trust

A phone number beginning with 904 immediately signals to clients and customers that you’re part of the community. People are more likely to trust a business that feels local, which can improve sales and customer loyalty.

Easier Customer Communication

For those living in or around Jacksonville, dialing a 904 number eliminates the hassle of considering long-distance charges. Plus, the familiarity of the area code means customers recognize your business as one they can trust.

Affordable Business Expansion

If you’re expanding your business to Jacksonville or nearby areas, getting a 904 phone number is affordable and easy. Many telecommunications services offer virtual numbers, so even businesses based elsewhere can establish a local presence with a 904 prefix.

Tips for Getting a 904 Number

How to Secure a 904 Area Code

1. Contact Your Local Provider

If you’re setting up a new personal or business phone line, simply ask your provider for a 904 number. Most providers still have 904 options available, but they may become scarcer over time due to high demand.

2. Consider Virtual Numbers

Business owners looking for multiple lines or remote access might benefit from virtual numbers. Online services like Grasshopper or RingCentral allow you to create a 904 number while operating from anywhere in the country.

3. Get Started ASAP

The demand for 904 numbers remains strong, so be proactive if you’re setting up a new phone line to avoid missing out.

The Future of the 904 Area Code

The 904 area code may face changes in the future as Jacksonville and its neighboring towns continue to grow. Like other major metros, Jacksonville might eventually require an overlay area code to expand phone line availability. While this change would allow new residents to get local lines, it would also make 904 numbers even more iconic as a limited resource.

For now, however, 904 remains the sole area code for this vibrant part of Florida, continuing to unite North Florida communities.

Discover the Charm of 904

The 904 area code is more than just phone numbers—it’s a symbol of connection, pride, and growth for North Florida. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a newcomer, it’s something worth celebrating. Businesses can build deeper bonds with the community by establishing a local presence with a 904 number, while residents unite under the shared identity of the area code.

If you’re planning to move to Jacksonville or expand your presence in the 904 region, securing a 904 number is just one way to become part of the First Coast family.