202 area code
Get a local phone number in Washington, DC
Biggest city:
Washington
State:
District of Columbia
Major Cities:
Washington
Timezone:
Eastern (GMT -5)
Population:
631,693
Average Income:
$75,698
Zip codes:
20001
20020
Unemployment Rate:
5.10%
Nearby area codes:
301
240
202 area code summary
Area code 202 covers the entirety of Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States and a global center for politics, policy, and power. As one of the original area codes established in 1947, 202 has long carried a reputation for influence and prestige. The region includes not just the federal government and all three branches—executive, legislative, and judicial—but also world-renowned institutions, historic monuments, universities, and think tanks. Major landmarks in the 202 area code include the White House, Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, and Smithsonian museums. Employers like the U.S. Government, World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), and countless NGOs, law firms, and consultants give Washington its uniquely international and high-powered workforce. The area is also home to Georgetown University and George Washington University, bringing education and youthful energy into the mix. Washington, D.C. is known for its walkable neighborhoods, from the lively U Street Corridor to the diplomatic zones of Embassy Row. It boasts diverse cuisine, strong cultural offerings, and a robust metro system. Despite its small size, the city has enormous reach—and so does its phone identity. A 202 number is often seen as a mark of authority, making this area code highly desirable for professionals and businesses alike.
Fun fact 💡
The Washington Monument, finished in 1884, was the world’s tallest structure at 555 feet until the Eiffel Tower stole the crown.
🏢First Phone Company:
Chesapeake & Potomac Telephone Company