Frequently Asked Questions
Carteret, New Jersey is in area code 732, which covers a broad region of central New Jersey. This area code was created in 1997 after splitting from area code 908 to accommodate growing demand.
To dial a 732 number, dial 1 followed by the 10-digit number (1-732-XXX-XXXX). The "1" prefix is necessary as it signifies a long-distance call within the US.
Area code 732 requires 10-digit dialing because it is overlaid with area code 848. Both codes serve the same geographic area, so dialing all 10 digits ensures the call connects correctly.
Originally part of area code 908, area code 732 was created in 1997 due to increased demand. In 2001, area code 848 was overlaid on the same region, necessitating 10-digit dialing for all calls.
Key locations within area code 732 include Carteret, New Brunswick (home to Rutgers University), Perth Amboy, Asbury Park, Long Branch, and Toms River.
Major telecommunications providers in the 732 area code include Verizon, AT&T, and Comcast. It's recommended to research each provider to find the best fit for your needs.
Dial all 10 digits (732 + the 7-digit local number), even for local calls within the 732 area code. This is essential due to the overlay with area code 848.
The 732 area code encompasses a diverse economic and cultural landscape. Rutgers University in New Brunswick is a major contributor to the region's cultural vibrancy, alongside various cultural events and recreational activities.
Dial 0 before a 10-digit 732 number for operator-assisted calls. This will connect you to an operator who can help complete your call.
Area code 732 covers central New Jersey, offering a mix of bustling urban centers and quiet suburban towns. It provides convenient access to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia.
While a high percentage of 732 prefixes are assigned, numbers may still be available. Contacting a telecommunications provider serving the 732 area is the best way to check availability.
Area Code 732: Carteret, New Jersey
Area code 732 serves 4.65 million residents across 5 counties in east-central New Jersey, including major cities like New Brunswick, Edison, Toms River, and Perth Amboy. This guide covers geographic coverage, the 848 overlay, dialing procedures, and the communities it connects – from Rutgers University to the Jersey Shore.
You'll learn what cities and counties area code 732 covers, its implementation history, regulatory requirements, and how 10-digit dialing works in this vital telecommunications region of the New York metropolitan area.
Table of Contents
What Cities and Counties Does Area Code 732 Cover?
Area code 732 (and its overlay 848) serves 5 counties in east-central New Jersey:
Note: Somerset County primarily uses area code 908, but some municipalities in the eastern portion have 732/848 numbers. Union County municipalities also primarily use other area codes, with 732/848 serving select areas. To verify coverage for a specific address, contact local providers or the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.
Combined, these counties serve a population of approximately 4.65 million residents (U.S. Census 2020), making this one of New Jersey's most populous area code regions.
Population by County (2024 estimates):
Key cities and communities include:
The region's strategic location provides proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia, making it a desirable place to live and work. New Brunswick is located approximately 27 miles (43 km) southwest of Manhattan, with NJ Transit Northeast Corridor Line trains reaching Penn Station NYC in approximately 58 minutes. Edison offers similar commute times of 50-58 minutes to NYC via the same rail line. This access to larger cities while maintaining a distinct New Jersey identity contributes to the area's unique character.
How to Dial 732 Numbers: 10-Digit Dialing Requirements
Understand how to dial phone numbers correctly within the 732/848 area code region.
Dialing Procedures:
Why 10-Digit Dialing? Since area code 848 overlays 732 (both serve the same region), dial all 10 digits for every call – even local calls within the same area code. This requirement started December 1, 2001. If you dial only 7 digits, your call won't complete and you'll receive an intercept message instructing you to hang up and dial again using the full 10-digit number.
Major Telecommunications Providers:
Choose from established carriers serving the 732 region:
For a complete list of authorized telephone service providers in New Jersey, visit the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU).
Area Code 732 History: When Was It Created?
Area code 732's history intertwines with the growth and development of central New Jersey. In the original 1947 nationwide telephone numbering plan, all of New Jersey was a single numbering plan area assigned area code 201. This remained until 1956 when New Jersey split the code to create area code 609 for South Jersey. In 1991, the state further divided the northern portion to create area code 908 for the southern and western portions of the 201 territory.
Originally part of area code 908, the state created area code 732 on June 1, 1997 as a geographic split to accommodate increasing demand for phone numbers in the southeastern portion of the 908 region. This split reflects the region's population growth and economic expansion during the 1990s. Following a six-month grace period, using 732 became mandatory on December 6, 1997.
To further address ongoing demand for phone numbers, NANPA overlaid area code 848 on the 732 region on December 29, 2001. An overlay means that both area codes serve the same geographic area, requiring 10-digit dialing for all calls.
Key Implementation Timeline:
Currently, approximately 94.6% of available prefixes within the 732/848 overlay complex are assigned (758 active prefixes out of 801 total). However, area code 732 is not in jeopardy, and no relief planning is underway, indicating sufficient numbering resources remain available.
Understanding Number Availability: NANPA (North American Numbering Plan Administrator) monitors prefix utilization through semi-annual Numbering Resource Utilization/Forecast (NRUF) reports published in April and October. When an area code approaches exhaustion with insufficient time to implement relief, NANPA may declare "jeopardy" status to ration remaining prefixes. The 732/848 region isn't currently in jeopardy status, meaning normal prefix assignment continues without restrictions.
Living in the 732: A Blend of Lifestyles
Experience diverse living options within the 732 area code region:
What You'll Find:
Commuting Details:
Lifestyle Benefits:
Cost of Living (2024-2025 data):
Economic and Cultural Landscape: A Thriving Region
The 732 area code region offers economic opportunities and cultural attractions:
Economic Anchors:
Cultural Highlights:
FAQs: Addressing Your Questions
Find answers to common questions about area code 732:
Q: What major cities are in area code 732?
Key cities include New Brunswick, Edison, Toms River, Perth Amboy, Carteret, Asbury Park, Long Branch, and Piscataway. The area code serves 5 counties across east-central New Jersey.
Q: When was area code 732 established?
Area code 732 was implemented on June 1, 1997 as a geographic split from area code 908 to accommodate the region's growing demand for phone numbers.
Q: Is 732 the only area code for this region?
No. Area code 848 overlays 732, meaning both codes serve the identical geographic area. The 848 overlay was implemented on December 29, 2001.
Q: How do I make a local call within the 732 area code?
Dial all 10 digits (area code + 7-digit number). Example: 732-555-1234. This applies to all calls within the region, even if you're calling someone with the same area code. 10-digit dialing became mandatory on December 1, 2001.
Q: Who are the primary telecommunications providers in 732?
Major providers include Verizon, AT&T, Comcast, T-Mobile, and Optimum. Visit the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities for a complete list of authorized carriers.
Q: What counties does area code 732 cover?
Area code 732 serves Middlesex County, Monmouth County, northern Ocean County, eastern Somerset County, and select areas of Union County.
Q: Is area code 732 running out of phone numbers?
No. While approximately 94.6% of available prefixes have been assigned, area code 732 is not in jeopardy, and no new area code relief planning is underway.
Q: How do I get a new 732 or 848 phone number?
Contact any authorized telecommunications provider serving the region (Verizon, AT&T, Comcast, T-Mobile, Optimum, or others). New numbers may be assigned with either 732 or 848 area codes depending on availability. Business and residential customers follow the same process.
Q: Can I keep my 732 number if I move within or outside the region?
If you move within the 732/848 service area, you can typically keep your number. If you move outside the region, number portability regulations allow you to port your number to a new provider, though long-distance charges may apply for local callers. Contact your provider for specific porting procedures.
Conclusion: A Dynamic and Connected Community
Area code 732 connects 4.65 million residents across 5 counties in east-central New Jersey, from Rutgers University in New Brunswick to the Jersey Shore beaches of Asbury Park and Long Branch.
Key Takeaways:
Whether you're moving to the area, running a business, or simply calling someone in the 732 region, understanding this area code helps you navigate New Jersey's telecommunications landscape and connect with one of the state's most vibrant regions.