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 February 2025, 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. 754 area code, Broward County, Florida
754 serves Broward County in South Florida, covering cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pembroke Pines. It supports the region’s economic expansion, catering to industries like tourism, marine services, and international trade. The region is an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes due to its strategic position close to international trade routes.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 954.
2. 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, one of the most popular area codes in the US.
3. 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.
4. 661 area code, Central California
The 661 area code serves a diverse expanse of Central California, covering Kern County and parts of Los Angeles County. It includes cities such as Bakersfield, Santa Clarita, and Palmdale, supporting industries such as agriculture, energy production, and aerospace. This region, known for its economic variety, continues to attract enterprises seeking growth in both traditional and innovative sectors.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 805 or 559. The 661 code was introduced as a split from 805 to accommodate the area’s rising population and increased telecommunication demand.
5. 307 area code, Wyoming
307 spans the entire state of Wyoming, connecting communities from Cheyenne to Jackson Hole. As Wyoming’s sole area code, it serves a diverse landscape of industries, including energy production, tourism, and agriculture. Its presence demonstrates the state’s commitment to preserving a unified communication network across vast, open territories.
If the number is unavailable, there are currently no alternative Wyoming area codes. However, nearby regions use the 208, 406, and 435 area codes, and they may be considered for future extensions or specific regional services.
6. 347 area code, New York City, New York
The 347 code serves New York City’s five districts—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island—meeting the city’s growing demand for phone numbers within its crowded commercial environment. This code supports a diverse business ecosystem, from finance and technology to arts and hospitality, within one of the world’s most dynamic metropolitan areas.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 718 and 929. 347 is an overlay that shares the same geographic region as 718 and the newer 929 code, providing continued connectivity across the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and business districts.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 240 area code, Maryland
The 240 area code covers a diverse region of Maryland, including Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, along with other parts of western Maryland. It supports the communication needs of both bustling suburban communities and more tranquil, rural areas, reflecting the state’s varied economic landscape. From government agencies to biotech firms, this area code serves a broad spectrum of enterprises contributing to the region’s development.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 301. 240 is an overlay that shares the same geographic territory as 301.
10. 954 area code, Broward County, Florida
Another best phone area code for businesses in Florida, the 954 code, serves the dynamic Broward County in South Florida, covering cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, and Hollywood. This region is recognized for its flourishing tourism industry, bustling ports, and strong economic presence, drawing both national and international attention.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 754.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. 928 area code, Northern Arizona
The 928 area code serves a broad and varied expanse of Northern Arizona, covering cities such as Flagstaff, Yuma, and Prescott. It supports the communication needs of a region known for its diverse economic landscape, from tourism and agriculture to healthcare and education. This code provides essential connectivity across both dynamic communities and more remote desert and mountain areas.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 520 or 480.
14. 682 area code, Fort Worth, Texas
The 682 area code phone number serves the Fort Worth metropolitan area, a key region in North Texas known for its rich history and economic vitality. This code complements the 817 area code, supporting the region’s continuous expansion and its thriving industries, including energy, aerospace, and logistics. Fort Worth’s development, both residential and commercial, necessitates additional numbering capacity to meet the growing demand for telecommunications.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 817. 682 is an overlay that covers the same geographical region as 817.
15. 929 area code, New York City, New York
The 929 famous area code serves the neighborhoods of New York City, including Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. It was introduced to meet the city’s growing population and the rising demand for telephone numbers. The 929 code complements the 718 and 347 area codes, reflecting the city’s dynamic economic growth, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse communities.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 718 and 347 as an overlay.
16. 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.
17. 210 area code, San Antonio, Texas
The 210 area code is one of the best area codes in the USA. It covers San Antonio and its surrounding areas, a dinamic and historically rich region in south-central Texas. Known for its rapid expansion, the area is home to diverse industries, including healthcare, military, and technology, as well as a strong tourism sector. The presence of major corporations and a growing local economy has made it an important business hub in the state.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 830 and 512. These codes serve neighboring areas while complementing the original 210 coverage.
18. 575 area code, New Mexico
The 575 area code serves a wide region of southern and central New Mexico, including cities such as Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Roswell. It plays a pivotal role in supporting the region’s economic and technological advancement, helping to foster industries such as agriculture, aerospace, and energy.
If the number is unavailable, businesses and residents often turn to 505. The 575 overlay shares much of the same geographic territory as the 505 code.
19. 773 area code, Chicago, Illinois
The 773 area code covers a significant portion of Chicago, reaching the city’s northern and western neighborhoods. It plays an essential role in sustaining the city’s dynamic economy, supporting sectors ranging from finance and technology to education and healthcare. As Chicago continues to evolve as a national powerhouse in commerce, the 773 code is vital for accommodating the city’s growing infrastructure and population.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 312 or 708. 773 operates alongside the 312 code, covering different sections of the city, while 708 serves nearby suburban areas, offering more options for expanding communication networks.
20. 602 area code, Phoenix, Arizona
The 602 business area code serves Phoenix and its surrounding communities, anchoring the region as a pivotal center for technology, commerce, and innovation in the southwestern United States. As the fifth-largest city in the nation, Phoenix has evolved into a thriving metropolitan area, with new industries and residential developments continuing to emerge across its vast urban landscape. Customer support is a vital aspect of the area’s expanding business landscape, enabling companies to maintain strong connections with their clients as they grow.
If the number is unavailable, you could consider 480 and 623. The 602 code is an original area code that covers the same region as the more recent 480 and 623 codes.
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.
These area codes provide stable business connectivity, but companies should be aware of possible lower response rates.
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.
