A content addressable memory includes a plurality of CAM blocks, each including an array of CAM cells to store a predetermined range of data values, a parsing circuit having an input to receive the search key and having an output to provide a selected portion of the search key in response to a select signal, and a plurality of block select circuits, each configured to enable a corresponding CAM block if the selected portion of the search key falls within the predetermined range of data values for the corresponding CAM block.