Selecting the right area code can be a strategic decision that enhances your business’s image and connectivity. In the United States, certain area codes are not just numbers—they’re symbols of prestige and hubs of economic activity. This article explores the 20 best area codes for business that confer status and appeal, making them desirable for businesses aiming to elevate their presence and appeal to a discerning clientele. From historic richness to commercial significance, these area codes can be pivotal in positioning your brand among the best.
What are area codes?
Area codes are the three-digit numbers that precede local phone numbers, essential for routing calls within specific geographic regions. Currently, the US is divided into 335 area codes. Some large regions, such as New York City, need multiple area codes due to high demand, while others may operate under just one.
Key rules for composing area codes include:
- No area codes in the U.S can start with the digits 0 or 1.
- The second digit is either 0 or 1 if it covers a wide area, such as an entire state.
- The third digit cannot be 0 if the second digit is also 0, to avoid confusion in the system.
This systematic approach helps maintain a clear telephone numbering system across various states and cities.
The evolution of US area codes
Past
The journey of US area codes began in 1947 when the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) was established. Originally, the country was divided into 86 Numbering Plan Areas (NPAs) to simplify long-distance calling and manage the burgeoning network of phone users. Area codes for businesses and personal use were strategically assigned based on the population and the frequency of cell usage. Heavily populated areas or those with higher traffic were assigned area codes that required less rotary dialing effort, which was beneficial in an era dominated by rotary phones.
Present time
Today, the landscape of American numbers has expanded significantly to accommodate the exponential growth in telecommunication needs. With over 335 area codes now in place, this system supports millions of phone numbers across the country. Technological advancements have allowed for greater flexibility in number assignments and the introduction of new unique area codes to prevent exhaustion of available numbers. The system has adapted to include not just geographical divisions, but also functional allocations such as toll-free numbers and mobile services, reflecting the dynamic changes in communication technology and consumer demand.
Why is area code important for your image?
For individuals
For the average person, an area code can serve as a significant marker of identity and locality. It often indicates one’s geographical roots or current residence, which can influence perceptions both socially and professionally. For example, possessing an area code from a prestigious urban area can lend a certain prestige or imply a bustling, dynamic lifestyle. Therefore, individuals might choose a popular area code that aligns with the image they wish to project, whether to maintain a connection to their community or to resonate with a more affluent or culturally vibrant area.
For business owners
For business owners, selecting the best area code is crucial for branding and local market engagement. An area code can anchor a business to a particular economic zone, influencing customer perceptions about the company’s reach and relevance. Businesses in area codes associated with thriving commercial hubs or innovative regions, such as Silicon Valley’s 650 or New York’s 212, might benefit from an enhanced reputation and implied credibility. Additionally, a local area code can foster trust among regional customers, who often prefer to support local businesses, underscoring the importance of a strategic area code in business planning and marketing efforts.
20 most popular area codes
Area codes gain popularity based on factors such as demographic shifts, economic growth, cultural significance, and the emergence of new businesses. For instance, area codes from bustling urban centers or tech hubs tend to have higher demand. This list, based on the latest internal statistics from MightyCall as of July 2024, examines the 20 most popular US area codes. It sheds light on the unique appeal of each, from their historical roots to their current economic and cultural roles.
We also added the overlay area codes in case if the desired area code is unavailable.
1. 786 area code, Miami, Florida
The 786 area code covers Miami, a vibrant city known for its diverse culture, booming real estate, and significant connection to Latin American commerce. Its increasing popularity in 2023 is partly due to the rise of the tech and art scenes, marking Miami as a dynamic hub for businesses and creatives.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 305.
2. 346 area code, Houston, Texas
Houston’s 346 most famous area code is gaining traction due to its expansive energy sector and growing medical research facilities. The 346’s popularity also stems from Houston’s significant economic growth and its role as a multicultural urban center. One of the most popular area codes also benefits from its proximity to major creative and digital media hubs.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 281, 713, and 832, encompassing Houston and its surrounding areas.
3. 469 area code, Dallas, Texas
The popular area code, 469 in Dallas, is associated with a rapidly expanding business environment, thriving cultural scenes, and major technology innovations. Its desirability is driven by Dallas’s role as a leading commercial hub in the Southern United States. As a hub for both traditional industries and new technologies, this area attracts a diverse range of businesses and residents seeking opportunities in one of America’s fastest-growing cities.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 214, 972, and 945, as all these codes serve the Dallas area.
4. 470 area code, Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta’s 470 area code is known for its prominence in media, entertainment, and logistics. The area’s continual growth, coupled with its rich musical and cinematic productions, contributes to the high demand for this code. The 470 original area code supports Atlanta’s reputation as a transportation and business hub, attracting significant investment and making it a pivotal area for professional growth.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 404 and 678, covering the Atlanta metropolitan area.
5. 323 area code, Los Angeles, California
The 323 iconic area code in Los Angeles covers vibrant neighborhoods and is integral to the indie film and music scenes, enhancing its popularity among those seeking to connect with the city’s dynamic lifestyle and creative opportunities. This area code is essential for individuals and businesses wanting to tap into the rich cultural tapestry and entertainment industry that Los Angeles offers.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 213. 323 surrounds the core of downtown LA covered by 213. Both are heavily populated urban areas with significant demand for numbers.
6. 213 area code, Los Angeles, California
The 213 famous area code, encompassing downtown Los Angeles, mirrors the city’s historical roots and current economic boom, driven by sectors such as tech, fashion, and finance, solidifying its status as a coveted number. This region is at the heart of LA’s transformation into a modern urban center, attracting startups and established firms alike, drawn by its burgeoning tech scene and cultural significance.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 323. 213 covers downtown LA, and 323 covers the surrounding areas.
7. 720 area code, Denver, Colorado
Denver’s 720 area code is prestigious for its burgeoning tech industry, progressive lifestyle, and natural scenery, appealing to a diverse population of young professionals and entrepreneurs seeking both urban life and outdoor adventures. Denver’s growth as a major economic center in the Mountain West region contributes to the 720 area code’s popularity, supported by a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 303. 720 is an overlay code introduced to provide additional numbers within the same geographic area as 303.
8. 214 area code, Dallas, Texas
As previously stated Dallas offers some of the best area codes in the USA. 214 remains popular due to the city’s thriving economy, cultural diversity, and significant role in the telecommunications and technology sectors, making it a strategic choice for businesses and residents alike. This area code also benefits from Dallas’s strong educational institutions and a highly skilled workforce, attracting corporations and startups focused on innovation and growth.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 469, 972, and 945. 214 is the original area code for Dallas, while others were added as overlays to accommodate growth.
9. 206 area code, Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s famous area code, 206, is central to a city known for its strong tech industry, including giants like Amazon and Microsoft, and its vibrant cultural scene, which includes music and art. The area’s appeal is enhanced by its stunning natural surroundings and its progressive, environmentally conscious community, making it highly desirable for residents and businesses alike.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 206. It primarily serves Seattle and its close-in suburbs, whereas 425 covers the eastern suburbs.
10. 281 area code, Houston, Texas
The 281 area code covers the greater Houston area, emphasizing its role in global energy, aerospace, and technology sectors. This area code has seen growth due to Houston’s economic expansion and its increasing cultural diversity, making it an essential part of the city’s communication infrastructure.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 346, 713, and 832. Originally split from 713, 281 now overlaps with 346 and 832 as part of the extended Houston area coverage.
11. 813 area code, Tampa, Florida
Tampa’s 813 area code encapsulates the dynamic growth of this Gulf Coast city, known for its vibrant cultural scene and emerging status as a tech hub. The surrounding area’s popularity is further supported by its significant maritime and tourism industries, which attract businesses and residents to the region.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 727, it covers the nearby St. Petersburg area.
12. 832 area code, Houston, Texas
Another best phone area code for businesses in Houston, the 832 code, covers both the city and its suburbs, accommodating the region’s rapid growth and diverse economic base. It’s essential for businesses involved in energy, healthcare, and technology, reflecting Houston’s status as a multifaceted metropolitan area.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 281, 713, and 346. 832 is an overlay that provides additional numbering capacity within the Houston area, alongside 281, 713, and 346.
13. 920 area code, Northeastern Wisconsin
Covering Northeastern Wisconsin, including cities like Green Bay, the 920 area code is integral to a region known for its manufacturing, dairy industry, and outdoor recreational activities. This area code supports a community deeply rooted in local traditions and the burgeoning local tourism and small business sectors.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 715. 920 covers the northeastern part, while 715 covers the northwestern part of Wisconsin. 274 will be added soon as well, covering the central Wisconsin area.
14. 678 area code, Atlanta, Georgia
The 678 business area code serves the broader Atlanta metropolitan area, complementing the 470 and 404 codes. It’s critical for supporting the city’s growth as a major commercial, cultural, and transportation hub in the southeastern United States, accommodating new businesses and residential developments.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 404 and 470. 678 is an overlay that covers the same expansive metropolitan area as 404 and the newer overlay 470.
15. 202 area code, Washington, D.C.
Washington D.C.’s most popular area code in the US is synonymous with the nation’s capital, covering all major government functions, a growing tech sector, and a diverse cultural scene. This prefix is essential for anyone operating within or connected to federal agencies, international NGOs, or the many professional services in the area.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 703. 202 covers Washington, D.C., while 703 covers the adjacent Northern Virginia area.
16. 512 area code, Austin, Texas
Austin’s 512 area code number remains at the forefront of the city’s identity as a major center for technology, education, and music. It’s one of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S., known for its vibrant cultural scene, including the famous SXSW festival, and its innovative business environment, attracting a young and dynamic workforce.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 737. 512 is the original Austin area code, and 737 is an overlay that extends over the same region.
17. 702 area code, Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas’ 702 area code is iconic, representing a city famous for its vibrant nightlife, bustling tourism, and growing technology sector. The area code encompasses the heart of the entertainment industry and is an essential part of Las Vegas’ global identity, attracting businesses connected to customer support, hospitality, entertainment, and now, tech startups, contributing to its economic diversification.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 725. 702 was the original code for Las Vegas, with 725 added as an overlay to accommodate growth.
18. 415 area code, San Francisco, California
The 415 area code is synonymous with San Francisco and is central to its identity as a global tech hub and financial powerhouse. Home to the Golden Gate Bridge and Silicon Valley’s innovative spirit, this area code benefits from an association with tech giants, startups, and a culturally rich urban environment, making it highly sought after by tech professionals and businesses alike.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 628. 415 is the historic area code for San Francisco, while 628 is a newer overlay covering the same area.
19. 612 area code, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis’ 612 area code phone number serves as the cultural and economic heartbeat of the Twin Cities. Known for its robust arts scene, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Walker Art Center, and a strong corporate presence, 612 supports a diverse economy with thriving sectors in retail, healthcare, and financial services, attracting a skilled and diverse workforce.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 651. 612 covers Minneapolis, while 651 covers the adjacent St. Paul and eastern suburbs.
20. 909 area code, Inland Empire, California
The 909 area code covers the Inland Empire in Southern California, an area known for its significant logistics and manufacturing base due to its strategic location near major ports and transportation hubs. As the region undergoes growth in sectors such as healthcare and education, the 909 area code is becoming increasingly attractive to businesses looking to tap into a growing market and labor pool.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 951. 909 originally covered a larger part of the Inland Empire, while 951 was split off to cover Riverside County specifically.
While area codes like 310 in Los Angeles and 212 in New York City continue to be among the most desirable area codes due to their prestigious associations and historical significance, obtaining new numbers in these areas has become increasingly challenging. Both of these area codes are nearly impossible to acquire, as they are rarely available for sale anymore. This scarcity adds an extra layer of desirability and exclusivity, making them highly coveted in both personal and professional realms.
Remote work, local presence: MightyCall
MightyCall helps businesses and individuals establish a strong local presence through a diverse selection of top area codes and memorable vanity business phone numbers:
- Local numbers: Our extensive catalog of local phone numbers allows you to choose an area code that aligns with your geographic or market preferences. By adopting a local number, you solidify your presence within a community, making it easier for local customers to recognize and connect with your business.
- Vanity numbers: Vanity numbers from MightyCall offer a unique and memorable way to make your contact information stand out. These phone numbers can be customized to reflect your business identity or personal preference, making them easy to recall for your clients. To see what options are available, start creating your account and the number selection will pop up prior to the payment.
- Other options: Additionally, MightyCall customers can get a toll-free or an international number either in addition to the local/vanity number or as an extra option. The number porting option is also available, meaning that you can transfer your previously purchased number to MightyCall.
10 richest phone area codes
Here are the richest area codes in 2024 based on the Forbes list of richest locations in the USA, where we took the most luxurious zip codes to see which area code numbers would correspond:
- Atherton, California (94027) – Area Code: 650
- Boston, Massachusetts (02199) – Area Code: 617
- Sagaponack, New York (11962) – Area Code: 631
- Ross, California (94957) – Area Code: 415
- Miami Beach, Florida (33109) – Area Code: 305
- Beverly Hills, California (90210) – Area Code: 310
- Santa Barbara, California (93108) – Area Code: 805
- Santa Monica, California – Area Code: 310
- Los Altos, California (94022) – Area Code: 650
- Medina, Washington (98039) – Area Code: 425
San Mateo County, Median Sale Price: $7,475,000
Suffolk County, Median Sale Price: $5,500,000
Suffolk County, Median Sale Price: $5,000,000
Marin County, Median Sale Price: $4,583,000
Miami-Dade County, Median Sale Price: $4,475,000
Los Angeles County, Median Sale Price: $4,125,000
Santa Barbara County, Median Sale Price: $4,103,000
Los Angeles County, Median Sale Price: $4,058,000
Santa Clara County, Median Sale Price: $4,052,000
King County, Median Sale Price: $4,000,000
What are the common area codes to avoid?
Typically, international numbers are associated with scammers, but sometimes the same reputation haunts the USA area codes as well. Here are a few according to GOBankingRates with the reasons why scammers usually go for them:
- 216: Cleveland, Ohio – Often used because it covers a major city, making calls appear more legitimate.
- 218: Northern Minnesota – The rural area may lead to less scrutiny over unexpected phone calls.
- 332: New York City – As a newer area code in New York City, 332 might not be as well-recognized.
- 347: New York City – This code spans across multiple boroughs, giving scammers the advantage of using a seemingly local number.
- 469: Dallas, Texas – Covering a large metro area, this common area code provides a wide pool of potential victims for scams.
- 646: Manhattan – One of Manhattan’s several codes, it’s frequently used by scammers for its association with the bustling business environment of the city.
- 657: La Palma, California – Scammers may use this area code due to its location in a densely populated region.
- 712: Western Iowa – This rather rare area code can be misused due to its coverage of a wide, less densely populated area.
What happens if we run out of numbers with the desired area code?
When all available number combinations in a sought-after area code are exhausted, regulatory bodies step in to manage the situation. In the United States, this responsibility falls to the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA), which oversees the allocation and conservation of telephone numbers. NANPA, under the guidance of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), may decide to introduce new area codes through methods such as overlays or splits.
For example, New York City has multiple area codes including 212, 718, 347, and most recently 332 and 929, due to the high demand and population density. These additional area codes are introduced to ensure that businesses and residents can obtain new traditional and virtual phone numbers as needed. The introduction of a new area code helps alleviate the pressure on the existing numbering resources, allowing for continued growth and connectivity within the region.
How to choose the best area code in the US for your needs?
Here are practical tips on getting a prestigious area code that suits your specific requirements:
- Consider your business location: If you’re a business owner, a local area code can help build trust and recognition among customers in that region, making them more likely to engage with your business.
- Look for prestige: Some area codes carry a reputation for prestige and connectivity, like Manhattan’s 212 or Silicon Valley’s 650.
- Assess accessibility and availability: Check the availability of traditional or virtual numbers within the desired area code. In some highly populated regions, it might be difficult to secure a number. Providers like MightyCall sometimes offer alternatives that still connect you with your desired locale.
- Consider portability: If you move frequently but wish to maintain consistent contact information, choose a business area code that offers good portability and aligns with your future growth plans.
- Evaluate the impact on costs: Be aware of potential costs associated with calling and maintaining a number in a specific area code.
- Check for new area codes: In rapidly growing regions, new area codes are often introduced to meet demand. Staying informed about these developments can provide you with additional options that are less saturated and might better serve your needs.
Secure the most prestigious area code and be fabulous
Choosing the right area code can significantly improve your personal and professional image. Prestigious area codes, such as Manhattan’s 212 or Silicon Valley’s 650, not only offer a coveted level of exclusivity but also position you within influential networks and communities. By aligning with these renowned area codes, you convey a message of reliability and prominence. Consider MightyCall to easily find and secure a number within these desirable locations.
