Area code 281 covers parts of the Houston metropolitan area in Texas, including many of its suburbs like Pasadena, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands. Introduced in 1996 as a split from 713, it is now overlaid with 832 and 346, requiring ten-digit dialing. The region is a dynamic mix of energy, healthcare, and space industries, with Houston being one of the most diverse and fastest-growing cities in the U.S. Area code 281 is associated with suburban affluence, economic opportunity, and the cultural melting pot that defines Greater Houston. It remains highly visible in local businesses, sports, and media.