Area code 636 serves the western suburbs of St. Louis, Missouri, including cities such as St. Charles, Chesterfield, and Washington. It was established in 1999 from a split of area code 314 to accommodate suburban growth. The region is known for a mix of residential communities, small businesses, and historical river towns along the Missouri River. Ten-digit dialing is required in many parts of Missouri due to overlay arrangements. 636 represents the continued expansion of the Greater St. Louis metro and its economic influence.