Area code
What is an area code?
An area code, or a numbering plan area (NPA), is a three-digit number that forms the first part of a ten-digit phone number and helps identify a specific geographic region within a country. It was originally created to simplify long-distance call routing by designating unique codes to different regions.
In the U.S., for example, area codes are assigned to states, cities, or regions and can overlap in certain areas due to population growth and increased demand for phone numbers. This is called an “overlay,” and it helps ensure there’s a sufficient supply of phone numbers while still keeping the regional distinction. When you see an area code, you’re seeing a location identifier that helps the phone system know where to send your call.
Area code examples
Area codes keep the phone system organized and ensure calls are correctly directed, even as cities grow and new area codes are introduced. Let’s use North Carolina area codes as an example:
- 919 – Covers Raleigh and surrounding areas
- 704 – Serves the Charlotte metropolitan area
- 828 – Designated for the western part of North Carolina
If you want to call a number in Raleigh ending in 000-0000, you have to dial (919) 000-0000 for it to be routed correctly.
Not every country or NPA uses the same format. Let’s look at another Bandwidth office location: Brussels, Belgium. There, the area code is a single digit.
- 2 – Covers Brussels and surrounding areas
- 3 – Covers Antwerp and surrounding areas
There’s an extra twist here too, because the area codes actually have a 0 trunk code added if you’re dialing within the country. So, calling from Antwerp to Brussels you’d dial 02-000-00-00. But if you’re dialing from New York to Brussels, you’d dial 011-32-2-000-00-00 and omit the 0 in the area code.
How Bandwidth is involved with area codes
Bandwidth plays a key role in helping businesses manage their area codes by offering access to millions of local phone numbers across the world. With Bandwidth, companies can select area codes that align with their target markets, helping them establish a local presence no matter where they’re based. Whether you’re looking to build trust with local customers or manage communication across multiple regions, Bandwidth makes it easy to search for, provision, and manage area codes. Our easy-to-use platform simplifies phone number management and allows companies to scale their communications strategy while staying compliant with area code regulations.
Related terms
- Area Code Emergency/911 Call Routing
- Local Calling Area
- Location Routing Number
- North American Numbering Plan (NANP)
- Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)
Area code FAQs
Do I need a new area code for my business as it grows?
Not necessarily. With Bandwidth, you can manage multiple local phone numbers across different area codes, allowing your business to scale without changing your core number. This flexibility helps your communications strategy grow seamlessly.
What happens if I need to switch providers or get numbers in a new area code?
If you need to switch providers or expand your area code coverage, Bandwidth makes the process simple with efficient number porting and ordering. You can easily order numbers in any area code Bandwidth has availability in, while keeping your existing numbers, ensuring seamless communication without any interruptions to your business operations.
Are all U.S. area codes three digits?
Yes, all U.S. area codes are three digits. This is a North American Numbering Plan (NANP) standard that ensures consistent phone number formats across the U.S. and other participating countries.
What area code is +1 in the U.S.?
The “+1” shown before U.S. phone numbers is not an area code—it is a country code. It precedes the area code when dialing internationally into the U.S., helping direct the call to the correct country before routing it to the specific area code and phone number. The +1 country code applies to phone numbers in all countries that participate in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
The information provided in this glossary definition does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice, nor does it necessarily represent Bandwidth's products or business practices. This page is for general informational purposes only.