Area code 916 serves the Sacramento metropolitan area in northern California, including the state capital and nearby cities such as Elk Grove, Citrus Heights, and Folsom. One of the original area codes created in 1947, it has become a key part of the political and governmental landscape of California. In 2018, overlay code 279 was introduced due to increased demand, requiring ten-digit dialing. Area code 916 is synonymous with state government, legislative affairs, and Northern California’s capital region, representing both administrative power and a rapidly growing metro area.