Area code 434 covers south-central Virginia, including cities such as Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Danville, and Farmville. It was created in 2001 from a split of area code 804 to provide more efficient telecommunications services for the region. The area is home to universities like the University of Virginia and Liberty University, as well as historic and agricultural communities. 434 supports both rural and college-town growth and remains a standalone area code that reflects the charm and character of southern Virginia.