904 Area Code: Location, Cities, Time Zone & ZIP Codes

The 904 area code is one of the most recognized phone codes in Northeast Florida. It has a long history and strong ties to Jacksonville and the First Coast region. Many local businesses, homes, and institutions use it. 

Because of population growth, the code has recently received an overlay. Knowing the 904 area code helps understand where calls come from, how dialing works, and what regions it serves.

What Is the 904 Area Code?

The 904 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan. It was first introduced in 1965. At that time, it covered a much bigger region. Over the decades, parts of its coverage area were split off to form new area codes. 

With time, the region grew rapidly and more telephone lines became necessary. To meet this demand, a new overlay area code was added. This allows more phone numbers to be issued without changing existing ones.

Where Is the 904 Area Code Located?

The 904 area code covers most of the First Coast region in Florida. This includes the city of Jacksonville and many surrounding communities. The code spans several counties: Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Bradford, Clay, and parts of Union County. 

Major cities and towns in its coverage include Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, St. Augustine, Fleming Island, Yulee, and Middleburg. The region blends urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and coastal communities.

Map and Regional Identity

The 904 region has a distinct identity in Northeast Florida. It is often associated with Jacksonville’s metro area. The coastline, historic towns, and riverfront neighborhoods all fall within the 904 code. 

The map shows a region that is not just dense in population but also very diverse in geography. From beaches to city streets to quiet suburbs, the 904 code captures a wide slice of Florida life.

Time Zone

The 904 area code is in the Eastern Time Zone. It follows Eastern Standard Time in the winter and Eastern Daylight Time in the summer. This is the same time zone as major East Coast cities. All parts of the 904 area code follow this standard, which ensures that calls, business hours, and schedules align across the region.

History of the 904 Area Code

The 904 code was first assigned in 1965. At that time, it covered much of northern Florida. As the state’s population grew, new area codes were needed. In 1995, part of the original 904 territory was split to create a new area code. This reduced the size of 904. A few years later, more splits happened. 

Over time, the 904 region became more concentrated around Jacksonville and nearby counties. In 2024, because of increasing demand, a new overlay area code (324) was introduced to the same geographic area. This allowed more phone numbers without forcing current 904 users to change.

904 Area Code Overlay

An overlay means a second area code serves the same geographic area as the first. For 904, the new overlay code is 324. Starting February 26, 2024, new numbers in the region may be assigned the 324 code. 

Existing 904 numbers remain the same. However, with the overlay, local calls now require ten digit dialing. That means people must dial the area code plus the seven‑digit number, even for local calls.

Counties and ZIP Codes in the 904 Area Code

The 904 area code spans several counties. These include Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Bradford, Clay, and parts of Union. Many ZIP codes in these counties use 904 for phone numbers. ZIP code coverage is broad, covering urban Jacksonville, coastal towns, and inland suburbs. 

Because the area is geographically large, ZIP codes and phone prefixes can vary significantly within the 904 region.

Population and Importance

The 904 area code serves a large and growing population. Jacksonville is the largest city in the region and contributes heavily to the number of phone lines. Because of its size, business activity, and residential density, demand for phone numbers is always high. 

The overlay with 324 shows that the region continues to expand. 904 remains a key code for both local identity and communication infrastructure in Northeast Florida.

Common Uses and Significance

Many businesses in Jacksonville and the First Coast use 904 numbers. Local government offices, tech companies, healthcare systems, and service providers all rely on it. For residents, a 904 number often signals a long connection to the area. 

The area code has become part of regional identity. It is used in branding, local media, and community events. The overlay with 324 also marks a modern shift, showing how the region is adapting to growth.

Challenges and Dialing Changes

With the overlay in place, everyone in the 904 region now must dial ten digits for local calls. This takes time to adjust to. Some long-time residents may find the change confusing. Businesses had to update systems, signage, and contact details. 

There can also be confusion when new numbers have the 324 code, since people may assume they are calling out of area. Despite these challenges, the overlay helps expand capacity without disrupting existing numbers.

Cultural and Regional Identity

The 904 area code is more than just a phone prefix. It is deeply tied to Northeast Florida’s culture. For Jacksonville residents, 904 is part of their identity. The area code appears in local media, sports, and community celebrations. 

There is even a “904 Day” that people celebrate. This sense of belonging helps reinforce the code’s importance beyond telecommunications.

Conclusion

The 904 area code is central to Northeast Florida, especially the Jacksonville and First Coast region. It covers several key counties and cities. The code has existed since 1965 and has changed over time to meet growing demand. With the introduction of the 324 overlay, the area is expanding its capacity. 

The 904 code remains deeply rooted in local identity and communication. Understanding this area code gives insight into both the history and future of phone service in one of Florida’s most dynamic regions.

FAQs 

What is the 904 area code?

The 904 area code is a telephone code in Northeast Florida. It primarily covers Jacksonville and surrounding counties. It was first introduced in 1965 and has been in use ever since. The code identifies phone numbers in this region.

Where is the 904 area code located?

The 904 area code is located in Northeast Florida. It includes cities like Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Jacksonville Beach, Fleming Island, Yulee, and Middleburg. It covers counties such as Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Bradford, Clay, and parts of Union.

What is the time zone of the 904 area code?

The 904 area code is in the Eastern Time Zone. It follows Eastern Standard Time in winter and Eastern Daylight Time in summer. All counties and cities in the 904 region use this time zone.

What is the ZIP code for the 904 area code?

The 904 area code spans many ZIP codes across its counties. In Jacksonville, ZIP codes like 32202, 32205, and 32207 use 904. Other towns and suburbs have their own ZIP codes that fall under this area code.