Area code 940 is an important telephone area code in the state of Texas, covering a large portion of the north-central region. If you’ve received a call from a 940 number or are planning to move to this area, understanding its coverage, history, and major cities can be helpful. This guide explains everything you need to know about area code 940 in a simple and clear way.
Where Is Area Code 940 Located?
Area code 940 primarily serves the northern part of Texas, especially areas just northwest of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. It stretches across several counties and includes both urban and rural communities.
Some of the main cities and towns covered under area code 940 include:
- Denton
- Wichita Falls
- Gainesville
- Decatur
- Bowie
The area code also serves many smaller towns and rural communities, making it a widely used code across North Texas.
History of Area Code 940
Area code 940 was created in 1997 as a split from Area code 817. Before this change, all of these regions were part of 817, which serves parts of the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
Due to population growth and increased demand for phone numbers, a new area code was needed. That’s when 940 was introduced to ensure enough numbers were available for residents and businesses.
Time Zone of Area Code 940
Area code 940 follows the Central Time Zone (CT), which is the same time zone used across most of Texas. This includes:
- Central Standard Time (CST)
- Central Daylight Time (CDT) during daylight saving
This is important for businesses and individuals who communicate with people in different states.
Major Cities and Their Importance
1. Denton
Denton is one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas. It is home to the University of North Texas and has a strong education and cultural scene.
2. Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls is one of the largest cities in the 940 area. It has a strong economy based on manufacturing, healthcare, and military presence, including Sheppard Air Force Base.
3. Gainesville
Gainesville is known for its historic charm and proximity to the Oklahoma border. It plays an important role in regional trade and agriculture.
Who Uses Area Code 940?
Area code 940 is used by:
- Residents living in North Texas
- Small and large businesses
- Government offices and institutions
- Educational institutions
Whether it’s a personal phone number or a business line, 940 is widely recognized in the region.
Is Area Code 940 Running Out?
As of now, area code 940 is not immediately running out of numbers, but like many area codes in the United States, demand continues to grow. With increasing population and mobile usage, new area codes may eventually be introduced in nearby regions.
How to Dial Area Code 940
If you are calling a 940 number:
- From within the U.S.: Dial 1 + 940 + the 7-digit number
- From outside the U.S.: Dial +1 940 + the phone number
Make sure to include the correct country code (+1) when calling internationally.
Final Thoughts
Area code 940 is a key part of the telecommunications network in North Texas. Covering cities like Denton and Wichita Falls, it serves a mix of growing urban centers and peaceful rural areas. Since its creation in 1997, it has supported communication needs for millions of residents and businesses.
Whether you’re receiving calls from this area or planning to relocate, understanding area code 940 gives you a better idea of the region it represents.
