The 905 area code is one of the most well-known area codes in Canada, covering a significant part of Southern Ontario. It includes major cities such as Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls. Since its introduction in 1993, it has played a crucial role in the region’s communication infrastructure.
In this guide, we’ll explore the history, geographic coverage, cultural impact, where is the 905 area code in ontario and economic significance of the 905 area code. We’ll also answer common questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of this important Canadian area code.
1. What Is the 905 Area Code?
The 905 area code is a telephone area code in Ontario, Canada, covering regions outside of Toronto. It is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves suburban and rural communities surrounding the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Over the years, the increasing demand for phone numbers led to the introduction of overlay codes, including 289, 365, and 742, which now serve alongside 905.
2. History of the 905 Area Code
2.1 The Creation of 905
Before 1993, the 416 area code covered both Toronto and its surrounding areas. However, due to rapid population growth and an increase in telecommunications demand, a new area code was needed.
- In 1993, the 905 area code was introduced to serve cities outside of Toronto.
- Toronto kept 416, while the surrounding regions received the new 905 area code.

2.2 Overlays and Number Shortages
The demand for phone numbers continued to rise, leading to new area codes being added to the 905 region:
- 289 was introduced in 2001 as the first overlay for the 905 area.
- 365 was added in 2013 to provide additional numbers.
- 742 became active in 2021, further expanding the numbering system.
With these overlays, ten-digit dialing (area code + phone number) became mandatory for all local calls in the region.
3. Geographic Coverage of the 905 Area Code
it covers many large cities, suburban communities, and rural areas in Southern Ontario and where is the 905 area code in ontario. It surrounds the City of Toronto, forming a horseshoe shape around the western, northern, and eastern edges of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
3.1 Major Cities and Regions in the 905 Area Code
Here are some of the most well-known cities and regions in the 905 area code:
Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Suburbs
- Mississauga – The second-largest city in Ontario.
- Brampton – A fast-growing city with a large, diverse population.
- Markham – A major tech hub in Canada.
- Vaughan – Home to Canada’s Wonderland and a booming economy.
Golden Horseshoe Cities
- Hamilton – A city known for its steel industry and McMaster University.
- St. Catharines – The largest city in the Niagara Region.
- Niagara Falls – A world-famous tourist destination.
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Durham Region (East of Toronto)
- Oshawa – A major city known for its automobile industry.
- Whitby – A growing suburban community.
- Ajax & Pickering – Rapidly expanding cities near Toronto.
3.2 Areas That Are Not Part of 905
- Toronto (416, 647, 437) – The City of Toronto is separate from 905.
- Some northern parts of York and Durham Regions use 705.
- Certain rural areas near Niagara use 519 or 226.
4. Cultural Significance of the 905 Area Code
4.1 The “905” Identity
it has become more than just a phone number prefix—it represents the suburban and urban communities surrounding Toronto.
- People often refer to the 905 region as “The 905” to differentiate it from Toronto (416).
- The 905 lifestyle is associated with larger homes, suburban living, and growing business hubs.
4.2 Raptors 905: The Basketball Team
The Toronto Raptors’ NBA G League team is named Raptors 905, representing the 905 region and its basketball culture. The team plays in Mississauga and symbolizes the region’s growing influence in Canadian sports.
5. Economic and Business Impact of the 905 Area Code
5.1 A Growing Business Hub
The 905 region has developed into a major business and economic hub in Ontario. Many businesses prefer to set up offices in cities like Mississauga, Markham, and Hamilton due to:
- Lower costs compared to Toronto.
- Access to highways and transportation networks.
- Diverse talent pools due to immigration and economic growth.

5.2 Key Industries in the 905 Region
- Technology & Innovation (Markham, Mississauga)
- Manufacturing & Steel (Hamilton, Oshawa)
- Tourism (Niagara Falls)
- Finance & Business Services (Vaughan, Oakville)
6. Telecommunications in the this Area Code
6.1 Mandatory Ten-Digit Dialing
Because of the overlay area codes (289, 365, 742), all local calls in the 905 area must use ten-digit dialing.
- Example: 905-XXX-XXXX or 289-XXX-XXXX
6.2 Major Phone and Internet Providers
Residents and businesses this code can choose from several telecommunications providers, including:
- Bell Canada
- Rogers Communications
- Telus
- Fido, Koodo, and Virgin Mobile
These companies provide landline, mobile, and internet services across the region.
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7. FAQs About the 905 Area Code
Q1: Is the 905 area code only for landlines?
No, it is used for both landlines and mobile phones in Southern Ontario.
Q2: Can I still get a 905 phone number?
Due to high demand, most new numbers are assigned 289, 365, or 742, but some 905 numbers may still be available through certain providers.
Q3: Do I need to dial “1” before making a call in the 905 area code?
- For local calls within the 905 area, just use the ten-digit number (905-XXX-XXXX).
- For long-distance calls, dial 1 + area code + number.
Q4: Why was the 905 area code created?
It was created in 1993 to relieve number shortages in the 416 area code, which was originally shared with Toronto.
Q5: What is the difference between 905 and 416?
- 416 = Toronto
- 905 = Suburban and rural areas surrounding Toronto
Conclusion
The 905 area code is more than just a telephone prefix—it represents a dynamic, fast-growing part of Ontario. From bustling business hubs to scenic tourist destinations, the 905 region plays a vital role in Canada’s economy and culture.
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