Geographic Coverage & Key Cities

The 505 area code encompasses 55 cities across 13 counties in northwestern and central New Mexico, serving approximately 1.43 million people. Key counties include Bernalillo, San Juan, Santa Fe, McKinley, and Rio Arriba. As one of New Mexico's two primary area codes (alongside 575), 505 operates without overlays, making it the sole area code for the regions it covers.

The 505 area code is one of the original North American area codes established in October 1947, initially covering the entire state of New Mexico. Due to increasing demand for telephone numbers, the area code was split on October 7, 2007, with the northwestern and central parts of the state, including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Farmington, and Gallup, retaining the 505 area code, while the rest of New Mexico transitioned to the new 575 area code. This split helped manage the growing telecommunications needs of the state’s diverse and expanding population.

The region's diverse industries, encompassing technology, government, energy, tourism, and culture, create significant business opportunities. Understanding nearby area codes is helpful when planning a regional presence and enhancing local SEO. The 575 area code covers southern and eastern New Mexico, and maintaining numbers in different area codes helps customers feel comfortable reaching out across state lines.

Key Economic Zones & Business Hubs

  • Major Cities: Albuquerque (economic anchor and aerospace hub), Santa Fe (state capital and arts destination), Farmington (oil and gas center), Gallup (Native American trade hub), Los Lunas (growing residential and business community)
  • Economic Zones: Technology corridors, government districts, energy production areas, tourism destinations, cultural centers
  • Business Hubs: Albuquerque aerospace district, Santa Fe government quarter, Farmington energy sector, Four Corners trade region
  • Neighboring Area Codes: 575 (southern/eastern New Mexico), 719 (Colorado Springs), 432 (Midland, Texas), 915 (El Paso, Texas), 928 (Flagstaff, Arizona)
  • Strategic Industries: Aerospace and defense, government services, energy production, tourism and hospitality, technology and research