The Ultimate Guide to the 956 Area Code: Everything You Need to Know

The 956 area code is a telephone area code in the U.S. state of Texas. It was created in 1954 as a split from the 512 area code. The 956 area code serves the Rio Grande Valley region of Texas, which includes the cities of Brownsville, McAllen, and Harlingen.

History of the 956 Area Code

The 956 area code was created on November 10, 1954, as a split from the 512 area code. At the time, the 512 area code covered the entire state of Texas. However, due to the growth of the Rio Grande Valley region, the 956 area code was created to serve the area.

The 956 area code has been expanded several times since its creation. In 1965, it was expanded to include the city of Laredo. In 1973, it was expanded to include the city of Eagle Pass. And in 1984, it was expanded to include the city of Del Rio.

Demographics of the 956 Area Code

The 956 area code is home to a diverse population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of the 956 area code was 1,342,259 in 2020. Of that number, 92.4% were Hispanic or Latino, 4.9% were White, 2.2% were Black or African American, 0.5% were Asian, and 0.1% were American Indian or Alaska Native.

The 956 area code is also home to a large number of military personnel. The U.S. Department of Defense estimates that there are over 100,000 military personnel stationed in the Rio Grande Valley region.

Economy of the 956 Area Code

The economy of the 956 area code is based on a variety of industries, including agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The Rio Grande Valley is a major producer of citrus fruits, vegetables, and cotton. The area is also a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as the South Padre Island National Seashore and the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park. The 956 area code is also home to a number of manufacturing plants, including those owned by companies such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Toyota.

Culture of the 956 Area Code

The 956 area code is home to a vibrant culture that is influenced by both Mexican and American traditions. The area is known for its music, food, and art. The 956 area code is also home to a number of festivals and events, including the Fiesta de las Americas and the Brownsville Charro Days.

Education in the 956 Area Code

The 956 area code is served by a number of public and private schools. The largest public school district in the area is the Brownsville Independent School District, which serves over 50,000 students. The area is also home to a number of colleges and universities, including the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

Healthcare in the 956 Area Code

The 956 area code is served by a number of hospitals and clinics. The largest hospital in the area is the Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville, which has over 400 beds. The area is also home to a number of specialized hospitals, including the Driscoll Children's Hospital and the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

Transportation in the 956 Area Code

The 956 area code is served by a number of highways and airports. The largest airport in the area is the Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport, which has flights to over 20 destinations. The area is also served by a number of bus lines, including Greyhound and Trailways.

Tips and Tricks for Using the 956 Area Code

Here are a few tips and tricks for using the 956 area code:

• When dialing a local number, you do not need to dial the area code.
• When dialing a long distance number, you must dial the area code.
• When dialing a toll-free number, you do not need to dial the area code.
• When dialing an international number, you must dial the country code, the area code, and the local number.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the 956 Area Code

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when using the 956 area code:

• Do not dial the area code when dialing a local number.
• Do not forget to dial the area code when dialing a long distance number.
• Do not dial the area code when dialing a toll-free number.
• Do not forget to dial the country code when dialing an international number.

Why the 956 Area Code Matters

The 956 area code is a unique and important part of the Rio Grande Valley region of Texas. It is home to a diverse and vibrant population, and it has a strong economy, culture, and education system. The 956 area code is also a major transportation hub for the region.

Benefits of Using the 956 Area Code

There are many benefits to using the 956 area code, including:

• It is a unique and memorable area code.
• It is easy to dial, as you do not need to dial the area code when dialing a local number.
• It is a growing area code, with a strong economy and a bright future.

Pros and Cons of Using the 956 Area Code

Here are a few pros and cons of using the 956 area code:

Pros:

• Unique and memorable
• Easy to dial
• Growing area code

Cons:

• May not be as well-known as other area codes
• May be more expensive to call long distance
• May be more difficult to get a local phone number

Conclusion

The 956 area code is a great choice for residents of the Rio Grande Valley region of Texas. It is a unique and memorable area code, and it is easy to dial. The 956 area code also has a strong economy, culture, and education system.