Area code 619 serves the southern portion of San Diego, California, including downtown and nearby communities. Created in 1982 from a split of 714, it was the first unique code for San Diego County. As a gateway to the U.S.–Mexico border and a major military, biotech, and tourism hub, 619 is strongly associated with regional pride and international connectivity. It has been overlaid with 858, so ten-digit dialing is required. 619 remains a popular and widely recognized code in Southern California.