805
Covers central California
In service since 1957
Split from area code 213
Overlay with 820
City facts
San Luis Obispo area code
Area code for central California: history, overlays and how to dial.
805
San Luis Obispo uses area code 805. Because more than one area code serves the same area, local calls need all ten digits.
About area code 805
How to call a number in San Luis Obispo
Inside the US
1 (805) 555-0123Dial 1, the area code, then the seven-digit number.Local call
(805) 555-0123Overlay area: always include the area code.From outside the US
+1 805 555 0123Use your country's exit code or +, then 1 for the US.San Luis Obispo is on Pacific Time (PT); check the time before calling from another zone.
Other cities that share 805
Nearby area codes
| Area code | Used in | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| 820 | Paso Robles | 25 mi |
San Luis Obispo quick facts
San Luis Obispo was founded on September 1, 1772 and incorporated on February 16, 1856. It is named for St. Louis of Toulouse.
Founded1772September 1, 1772
Incorporated1856February 16, 1856
CountySan Luis Obispo CountyCalifornia
Area code805Population48,039Census ACS estimateZIP codes293401, 93405Elevation233 ft71 m
Time zonePacific TimePT
Dates, namesake and elevation from Wikipedia: San Luis Obispo, California and Wikidata (checked 2026-11-08); population and ZIP codes from the U.S. Census Bureau.
Questions
What area code is San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo uses area code 805. Because more than one area code serves the same area, local calls need all ten digits.
When did area code 805 start?
Area code 805 dates from 1957, when it was split from area code 213.
Do I need to dial the area code for local calls in San Luis Obispo?
Yes. 805 share the same area as an overlay, so every local call needs the area code plus the seven-digit number (ten digits).
What time zone is area code 805 in?
San Luis Obispo is on Pacific Time (PT).
What other cities use area code 805?
Other cities in this network that share 805 include Paso Robles, Santa Maria, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley.
Sources: Area codes 805 and 820 (Wikipedia) and Wikidata, checked 2026-11-08. Numbering plans change; the North American Numbering Plan Administrator is the official record.