New Jersey · Eastern Time
856 Area Code
The 856 area code is a telephone area code in New Jersey, covering Camden and the surrounding area. It lies in the Eastern Time zone.
Last updated June 5, 2026
Where is the 856 area code?
856 serves Camden and nearby communities in New Jersey. In the wider directory it sits in the Northeast region.
Dialing 856
Camden is currently served by the single area code 856. Ten-digit dialing (area code + seven-digit number) always works and is increasingly the norm nationwide; some local calls may still connect with seven digits. If a future overlay is added, 10-digit dialing would become mandatory.
History of the 856 area code
856 is a geographic area code serving Camden and the surrounding part of New Jersey. It was added after the original 1947 plan as telephone demand grew. For how codes are created, split, and overlaid, see how area codes work.
Is 856 a scam or spam risk?
856 is a legitimate geographic area code, not a premium or toll line, so a call from it costs you nothing extra. That said, scammers frequently spoof real local area codes to look familiar on caller ID. A genuine 856 number on your screen is no guarantee the caller is local or trustworthy. See spam & scam-risk area codes for how spoofing works and how to respond.
Other New Jersey area codes
Explore more
See every code in New Jersey, compare codes across the Northeast region, or view all Eastern Time codes. You can also browse the 8XX block or the complete numeric list of US area codes.
New to how this all works? Start with how area codes work, then read up on overlays, 10-digit dialing, and spam & scam-risk codes. To check another number, use the area code lookup tool.
Quick answers
856 area code FAQ
Where is the 856 area code?
The 856 area code is in New Jersey, serving Camden and the surrounding area in the Northeast region.
What time zone is 856 in?
856 is in the Eastern Time zone.
Do I have to dial 10 digits for 856?
Ten-digit dialing always works, and many areas now require it; some local calls in this area may still connect with seven digits.
Is 856 a toll-free or premium code?
No. 856 is a standard geographic area code, so calling it costs the same as any local or long-distance call on your plan. Toll-free calls use 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844 or 833.