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Introduction: Why Are You Getting Calls from the 626 Area Code?

Ever pick up your phone to see a call from the 626 area code and wonder, “Who’s this?” You’re not alone. Unknown area codes spark curiosity and caution, especially when scammers are known to spoof local numbers to trick you into answering. Whether it’s a missed call, a text about a “missed delivery,” or a random voicemail, understanding the 626 area code can help you decide whether to answer or block. In this guide, we’ll break down where the 626 area code is located, its time zone, potential scam risks, and who might be calling you in 2025. Let’s dive in and demystify those 626 calls.

What city is the 626 area code in? The 626 area code primarily serves the San Gabriel Valley in Southern California, covering cities like Pasadena, Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, and West Covina. It’s nestled in Los Angeles County, with some areas extending into San Bernardino County.

Where Is the 626 Area Code Located?

The 626 area code is rooted in the vibrant San Gabriel Valley, a diverse region in Southern California. Established in 1997, it was split from the 818 area code to meet the growing demand for phone numbers in this bustling area. The region is known for its cultural richness, historic landmarks like the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, and proximity to Los Angeles.

Cities Covered by the 626 Area Code

• Pasadena: Home to the iconic Rose Parade and a hub for arts and culture.

• Alhambra: Known for its culinary scene and historic charm.

• Arcadia: Famous for the Santa Anita Park racetrack.

• El Monte: A growing urban center with a strong community vibe.

• West Covina: A commercial hub with shopping and dining options.

Other notable areas include Monterey Park, Rosemead, Glendora, Covina, and San Gabriel, among others. The 626 area code spans Los Angeles County and parts of San Bernardino County, serving a population of over 1.8 million. Its proximity to Los Angeles makes it a key player in Southern California’s economy and culture.

What Time Zone Is the 626 Area Code In?

The 626 area code operates in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), which is UTC-8 in standard time and UTC-7 during Daylight Saving Time (March to November). This puts it three hours behind Eastern Time and one hour behind Mountain Time. If you’re scheduling a call with someone in the 626 area, keep this time difference in mind, especially if you’re outside California.

For example:

• If it’s 12:00 PM EST, it’s 9:00 AM PST in the 626 area.

• During Daylight Saving Time, 12:00 PM EDT aligns with 10:00 AM PDT.

This time zone aligns with major California cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, making communication seamless within the state.

Is 626 a Scam Area Code?

The 626 area code is not inherently a scam, but scammers can exploit it using caller ID spoofing to make their calls appear local. This tactic, known as “neighbor spoofing,” tricks people into answering by displaying a familiar area code like 626. In 2025, scam calls remain a concern, with 51.08% of reported 626 scam complaints linked to prerecorded voice messages, according to CallerSmart data.

Common 626 Area Code Scams

• Missed Delivery Texts: Messages claiming a package needs rescheduling, often with a malicious link to steal personal info.

• Imposter Scams: Callers posing as banks, IRS agents, or law enforcement demanding urgent payments via gift cards or crypto.

• One-Ring Scams: Calls that ring once, hoping you’ll call back and incur international or premium fees.

• “Can You Hear Me?” Scams: Scammers prompt you to say “yes,” potentially recording your voice for fraudulent authorizations.

Safety Tips to Avoid 626 Scams

• Let Unknown Calls Go to Voicemail: Legitimate callers leave messages; scammers rarely do.

• Don’t Click Text Links: Verify delivery or account issues through official apps or websites.

• Use Reverse Phone Lookup: Tools like Intelius or CallerSmart can identify suspicious numbers.

• Report Scams: Report to the FTC (ftc.gov), FCC (fcc.gov), or FBI’s Internet Complaint Center for significant fraud.

• Register on the Do Not Call Registry: Reduce telemarketing calls at donotcall.gov.

If a 626 number seems suspicious, hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified number from their official website.

Who Might Be Calling You from 626?

Calls from the 626 area code could come from various sources, given the region’s diverse population and economy. Here’s who might be on the other end:

• Local Residents: Friends, family, or neighbors in the San Gabriel Valley.

• Businesses: Companies like Huntington Hospital, Panda Restaurant Group, or California Institute of Technology operate in the 626 area.

• Government Agencies: Entities like the Pasadena Police Department or Arcadia Unified School District use 626 numbers.

• Scammers: Spoofed calls pretending to be local to gain your trust.

• Telemarketers: Some businesses use 626 numbers for marketing, which can feel intrusive.

If you don’t recognize the number, let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message, while scammers often hang up.

History & Fun Facts About the 626 Area Code

The 626 area code has a rich history tied to Southern California’s growth. Here’s a look at its origins and some fun facts:

• Established in 1997: Split from the 818 area code to accommodate the rising demand for phone numbers in the San Gabriel Valley.

• Cultural Hub: Pasadena’s Rose Bowl hosts the annual Rose Bowl Game and has been a venue for Olympic events and FIFA World Cup Finals.

• Diverse Population: The 626 area is home to significant Latino and Asian communities, contributing to its vibrant food and cultural scenes.

• Number Availability: A 2001 CPUC study found that of 7.7 million possible 626 numbers, about 5.5 million were unused, showing room for growth without new area codes.

The 626 area code remains a symbol of the San Gabriel Valley’s unique blend of suburban charm and urban energy.

Comparison: 626 vs. Nearby Area Codes

To understand how the 626 area code fits into Southern California, here’s a comparison with nearby area codes:

The 626 area code is distinct for its focus on the San Gabriel Valley, while neighboring codes cover other parts of Los Angeles and beyond.

How to Block Unwanted Calls from 626

Tired of unwanted 626 calls? Here’s how to stop them:

• On iPhone:

  1. Open the Phone app.

  2. Go to Recents, tap the “i” next to the number.

  3. Select Block this Caller.

• On Android:

  1. Open Call History.

  2. Tap the number, then select Block or Add to Block List.

• Use Call-Blocking Apps: Apps like RealCall or Nomorobo block 99% of robocalls and spam texts.

• Enable Spam Filters: Most smartphones have built-in spam filters; enable them in your settings.

• Check with Your Carrier: Providers like Verizon and AT&T offer free or paid call-blocking services.

Blocking numbers ensures peace of mind, especially if you suspect scam activity.

FAQs About the 626 Area Code

What city is the 626 area code in?
The 626 area code covers the San Gabriel Valley in Southern California, including cities like Pasadena, Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, and West Covina.

Is the 626 area code a scam?
No, the 626 area code itself is legitimate, but scammers may spoof 626 numbers to appear local. Always verify unknown callers and avoid sharing personal info.

What time zone is 626 in?
The 626 area code is in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC-8), with Daylight Saving Time shifting to UTC-7 from March to November.

How can I block 626 scam calls?
Use your phone’s built-in blocking feature, enable spam filters, or download apps like RealCall. Register on the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls.

Can I get a 626 area code number for my business?
Yes, services like KrispCall, Aircall, or Talkroute offer 626 numbers for businesses, even if you’re not in California.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Safe with 626 Calls

The 626 area code connects you to the vibrant San Gabriel Valley, a region rich in culture, history, and opportunity. While most 626 calls are legitimate, scammers can exploit this area code to trick unsuspecting people. By understanding its location, time zone, and potential risks, you can make informed decisions about answering or blocking calls. Use reverse phone lookups, block suspicious numbers, and report scams to stay safe.

If you’re concerned about unknown calls, check out our Temporary Email Tools or Privacy Guides to protect your personal information and enhance your online security.