Area codes are a crucial part of how we connect via phone. These numerical prefixes direct calls to specific geographic regions, ensuring your conversations reach the right destination.
One such area code is 908, which you’ll find in the state of New Jersey. So, if you’re wondering about the area code 908 location, you’ve come to the right place.
This article will explore the specific areas covered by the 908 area code, providing details about its demographics and other key information.
Location and Geographic Coverage of Area Code 908
Area code 908 doesn’t blanket the entire state of New Jersey, but it does encompass a significant portion of the northern and central parts of the state, including sections of the New York metropolitan area.
The 908 area code serves all or part of these major New Jersey counties:
- Union County
- Somerset County
- Hunterdon County
Keep in mind that coverage isn’t exclusive within those counties. Some counties are split between multiple area codes, so not every phone number in Union, Somerset, or Hunterdon County will necessarily begin with 908.
Some of the major cities and communities served by area code 908 include:
- Elizabeth
- Somerville
- Bridgewater
- Union
- Plainfield
If you’re dialing someone in New Jersey, double-check which area code serves the specific town or city you’re calling to ensure you dial the correct number.
Time Zone and Daylight Saving Time
Area code 908 follows Eastern Time (ET), which is GMT -05:00.
Like most of the United States, the 908 area observes Daylight Saving Time (DST). During the summer, 908 switches to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is GMT -04:00.
In 2025, Daylight Saving Time begins on March 9th at 2:00 AM. At that time, clocks are moved forward one hour.
Daylight Saving Time ends on November 2nd, 2025, at 2:00 AM, when clocks are moved backward one hour.
Demographics of Area Code 908
Area code 908 serves a large population across several counties in New Jersey. Here’s a snapshot of the demographics of the area, based on data from Census 2020:
Population Overview
The area covered by area code 908 is home to approximately 5,545,379 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The racial and ethnic makeup of the population is diverse:
- White: 2,974,338
- Black or African American: 737,086
- Asian: 618,228
- Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1,930
- American Indian and Alaska Native: 29,233
- Hispanic or Latino: 999,428
It’s important to note the distinction between race and ethnicity. Race is a social construct based on perceived physical characteristics, while ethnicity refers to shared cultural traits, ancestry, and language. The Census Bureau considers Hispanic or Latino to be an ethnicity, meaning individuals can identify as Hispanic or Latino and also report any race.
Age and Household Information
The population in area code 908 trends a bit older, with a median age of 41.55 years. Here’s a further breakdown:
- Overall Median Age: 41.55
- Median Age (Male): 40.00
- Median Age (Female): 42.82
Household information provides further insight into the living arrangements within the area:
- Total Housing Units: 2,226,769
- Total Households: 2,048,996
- Average Household Size: 2.66
- Average Family Size: 3.10
This data paints a picture of a densely populated region with a varied demographic profile.
Prefix assignment and usage
Within the 908 area code, each phone number begins with a three-digit prefix, which comes right after the area code itself. So, in the phone number 908-XXX-YYYY, the “XXX” is the prefix. These prefixes are assigned to specific carriers and geographical areas.
As of now, most of the prefixes within the 908 area code are in use. About 87% have been assigned, leaving only around 13% inactive. That translates to 695 active prefixes and 105 that are currently inactive.
Looking at how those prefixes are used, we can see some interesting trends. Of the active prefixes, the majority are assigned to landlines. Roughly 69% (477 prefixes) are used for traditional phone service, while about 31% (217 prefixes) are used for wireless or mobile phone service. There’s also one prefix whose usage is currently unknown.
These numbers reflect the ongoing shift from landlines to mobile phones. While landlines still represent a large share, the increasing number of wireless prefixes shows how much we’ve come to rely on our cell phones.
Area code 908: History and future
Area code 908 came into service on November 1, 1990. It was created when New Jersey’s original area code, 201, was split due to increasing demand for phone numbers. This allowed the northern part of the state to keep 201, while central and northwestern regions adopted 908.
Currently, area code 908 isn’t in danger of running out of available phone numbers. However, if the need arises in the future, the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) could implement an overlay or a split. An overlay adds a new area code to the same geographic region, requiring ten-digit dialing. A split divides the existing area code into two distinct regions with different codes.
The Bottom Line
Area code 908 serves parts of northern and central New Jersey, including areas near New York City. The region is diverse, and residents observe Eastern Time.
Understanding area codes is an essential part of modern telecommunications. Whether you’re making a call, setting up a business, or just curious about the world around you, knowing the basics of area codes can be surprisingly useful.
If you’re interested in learning more, contact your telecommunications provider or search online directories for more information.