Richmond, Virginia
Virginia · Eastern (UTC-5) · — · 10 cities
Cities Served by Area Code 686 (10 cities)
Additional Details
About Area Code 686
Area code 686 was introduced in 2024 as an overlay code, sharing the same geographic region as an existing area code to meet growing demand for phone numbers in the Richmond area. The area is in the Eastern time zone. It covers 10 cities and communities including Ashland, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Glen Allen, Henrico and 5 more.
Phone Number Prefixes in Area Code 686
35 active NXX prefixes — 17% wireless, 83% landline. Each prefix (NXX) represents up to 10,000 phone numbers.
| Prefix | Carrier | Type | Rate Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| 686-200 | AT&T Mobility | Wireless | Richmond |
| 686-201 | AT&T | Landline | Cartersvl |
| 686-202 | Omnipoint Communications Cap Operations | Landline | Ashland |
| 686-203 | Verizon Wireless | Wireless | Richmond |
| 686-204 | AT&T Mobility | Wireless | Richmond |
| 686-205 | AT&T Mobility | Wireless | Richmond |
| 686-206 | AT&T Mobility | Wireless | Richmond |
| 686-207 | Ringer Mobile | Wireless | Richmond |
| 686-208 | Onvoy | Landline | Richmond |
| 686-209 | Wavenation | Landline | Richmond |
| 686-210 | Onvoy | Landline | Richmond |
| 686-211 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-222 | Onvoy | Landline | Chester |
| 686-311 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-333 | Onvoy | Landline | Heathsvl |
| 686-411 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-444 | Onvoy | Landline | Irvington |
| 686-465 | Exiant Communications | Landline | Richmond |
| 686-511 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-529 | Onvoy | Landline | Waverly |
| 686-555 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Dir Asst |
| 686-611 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-666 | Onvoy | Landline | Montross |
| 686-686 | Onvoy | Landline | Charles Cy |
| 686-700 | Landline | ||
| 686-711 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-777 | Onvoy | Landline | Kilmarnock |
| 686-811 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-888 | Wide Voice | Landline | Richmond |
| 686-911 | Multiple Ocn Listing | Landline | Xxxxxxxxxx |
| 686-950 | Landline | ||
| 686-958 | Landline | ||
| 686-959 | Landline | ||
| 686-976 | Landline | ||
| 686-999 | Onvoy | Landline | Tappahnnck |
All 9 area codes in Virginia
About Area Code 686
Area code 686 hit the scene in 2024, stepping in to handle the growing demand for phone numbers around Richmond, Virginia. You see, the old codes were getting stretched thin with all the new folks moving in and businesses popping up, so folks in charge decided to layer on this overlay to keep things running smooth. It's not like the splits from way back; this one's an overlay, meaning it shares the same territory as existing codes without shuffling numbers around. That makes life easier for residents in places like Ashland or Henrico, who can keep their current digits while grabbing new ones if needed. Picture this: Richmond's always been a hub of activity, from its colonial roots to today's mix of historic sites and modern vibes. With 686 covering spots like Chesterfield and Mechanicsville, it's all about connecting the dots in this part of Virginia. Folks here deal with everything from traffic on I-95 to chats about local eats, and this code ensures they can do it without missing a beat. It's a fresh addition that reflects how the area's evolving, with new developments springing up and people relying on their phones more than ever. Whether you're a long-time local or just passing through, 686 is your line to the heart of central Virginia's everyday stories.
⚠ Scam & Spam Alert for 686
If you're in the 686 area, watch out for those pesky phone scams that pop up now and then. IRS imposters are a big one around here; they'll call claiming you owe taxes and demand payment on the spot. Then there's the auto warranty racket, where someone pitches an extended plan for a car you might not even own anymore. Don't forget utility scams, with callers pretending to be from your power company and threatening to cut off service unless you pay up fast. These tricks can hit anyone, so it's smart to stay alert. Here's a simple move: Always hang up and call back the official number if something sounds off. That way, you're not falling for a fake.
Local Snapshot
Richmond packs in about 230,000 people, making it a solid spot in Virginia's lineup. The area's big on finance and healthcare, with plenty of jobs in banks and hospitals keeping things humming. You'll find key spots like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts drawing crowds from all over. And here's a twist: Richmond's got a bunch of cool breweries that keep the local scene lively, surprising for a place with such deep history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the 686 area code introduced in 2024 for the Richmond region?
The 686 area code was added as an overlay in 2024 to address the growing demand for phone numbers in the Richmond area, which includes cities like Ashland and Henrico. This expansion helps accommodate population increases driven by the region's economic development. It overlays existing codes without changing boundaries.
What historical sites can be found in the cities served by the 686 area code?
In Richmond and nearby areas like Chesterfield, visitors can explore sites such as the American Civil War Museum and St. John's Church, key to Virginia's history. These landmarks highlight the area's role in early American independence and the Civil War era. Cities like Colonial Heights also feature preserved battlefields from that period.
How does the 686 area code relate to the tobacco industry in Hopewell and other served cities?
The 686 area code covers Hopewell, a city with a long history in tobacco processing and manufacturing that dates back to the 17th century. This industry shaped the local economy and community, with several historic factories still standing as reminders. The code's introduction in 2024 ensures continued communication needs for businesses evolving from this heritage.