How Can I Get a Phone Number With a Different Area Code?
Introduction
If you run a small business or side hustle, chances are you’ve wondered: Can I get a phone number with a different area code, even if I don’t live there? The answer is yes, and it’s actually a smart move.
Whether you want to appear local in a new city, separate work from personal calls, or manage multiple phone numbers under one system, getting a virtual business number with the area code of your choice is easier than ever. No need to move, switch carriers, or buy another phone.
In this guide, we’ll break down why you might want a different area code phone number, how it can benefit your business, and how to set one up in just a few minutes with a tool like Ringo.
Understanding Area Codes in the United States
What Is an Area Code?
An area code is the first three digits of a US phone number that identifies a specific geographic region. For example, 212 is associated with New York City and 310 is linked to Los Angeles. Area codes were originally created to make it easier to route landline calls based on location. Back then, if you were calling someone nearby, you often didn’t need to dial the full ten digits.
Even though we now rely on mobile phones and internet-based calling, the area code is still part of every number and continues to signal where the call is coming from, or at least where it looks like it’s coming from.
How Does an Area Code Work for Your Business?
For businesses, an area code can be more than just a technical detail. It plays a role in how potential customers see and respond to your calls or messages. A number that feels local is more likely to get answered. People tend to trust area codes they recognize.
With modern tools like virtual phone systems, your business can choose an area code that matches any location you want to serve, even if you are based somewhere else. This gives you a local presence, helps you reach more customers, and builds credibility.
Area codes may seem like a small thing, but they still carry weight. Using the right one can help your business look more approachable and connected in the places that matter most.
Why Consider Getting a Phone Number With a Different Area Code?
Building Local Trust With Customers
People tend to trust phone numbers that feel familiar. Think about it. Are you more likely to answer a call from your own area or from somewhere far away? Most people go with the local number. Your customers feel the same way.
That first impression matters. A local number makes people more likely to pick up, respond, and engage. It helps your business feel approachable before the conversation even starts.
If your team works in multiple locations, you can set up phone numbers with different area codes based on each region you serve. That makes it easier for customers to reach you and adds a layer of comfort and trust.
Expanding Your Business Into New Cities
Expanding into a new city might seem tricky, but using a local area code makes it simple. With a virtual phone number, your business can look local anywhere without setting up a physical office.
For example, you can serve customers in Los Angeles while keeping your team in Chicago. The right area code helps your number feel familiar, which builds trust and makes people more likely to reach out.
Many phone systems also let you forward calls to your team wherever they are. This keeps things running smoothly and ensures your customers always get the support they need.
Can You Have Multiple Phone Numbers With Different Area Codes?
Yes, businesses can use more than one phone number with different area codes at the same time. This way, they can show they are local in many places. It also helps to reach more people on all their calls.
Virtual phone systems help make sure the calls go to the right team. You can send calls to where they are needed most. It is easy to keep track of calls and see which areas get the most calls.
Some phone systems offer a shared team inbox, making it easier to manage messages and respond faster. If you use multiple numbers with different area codes, choose a provider that includes this feature to keep customer requests organized and your team on the same page.
Tracking Customer Engagement by Region
Understanding how customer engagement changes from one area to another can help your business make smarter decisions. When you use virtual phone numbers with specific area codes, you can track how people in each region respond to your calls and messages.
For example, if you run a service business with customers in both Austin and Phoenix, you can set up a local number for each city. Over time, you might notice that customers in Austin respond more to morning calls, while those in Phoenix tend to engage more in the evening. With features like voicemail transcription and caller ID, it’s easy to review call activity and spot trends.
This kind of insight helps your team adjust their approach for each area and build stronger relationships. When your outreach matches local habits and expectations, customers feel heard and supported. Using local numbers to track engagement is a simple way to improve service and connect more meaningfully with the people you serve.
How to Get a Phone Number With a Different Area Code (Step-by-Step)
1. Signing Up for a Virtual Phone Number
Getting started with a virtual phone number is simple. First, choose a provider that offers the basics you need, like unlimited calling and texting. Some of the best phone systems will include other very useful tools to drive move customers like AI Call Assistant (that can answer the call while you're unavailable), AI call summaries, record and transcriptions, or even WhatsApp.
With a virtual phone, you simply download an app on your phone and connect your new phone number to it. That way, you can communicate with customers directly through the app, while keeping your personal contacts and number completely separate.
Once you sign up to a new business phone, you can pick a new number with the area code you want. You’ll also get access to a mobile app that lets you make and receive calls, check voicemail, and manage settings from anywhere.
What if you already have a number you want to use in that area code? - with services like Ringo you can port your number, so you don't have to make the switch.
2. Picking the Right Area Code
Choosing the right area code helps your business feel local to the people you want to reach. Think about where most of your customers are and select an area code that matches that region. This small step can help you get more responses and build trust.
You can search for available area codes using your provider’s tools or by browsing by city or region. It only takes a few clicks to find the one that fits.
3. Setting Up Your New Number, Features and 10DLC.
Once you have your new number, getting everything set up is simple. Just log in to your account, connect the number, and customize the settings based on how you work—such as adding other team mates, AI Call Assistant, routing options, etc. In just a few steps, you’ll have a fully working phone number that looks local and works from anywhere.
If you’re planning to text customers in the U.S., you may also need to complete 10DLC registration. 10DLC (10-digit long code) is the carrier-approved system for business messaging, designed to reduce spam and improve trust. Registering your business and messaging purpose helps your texts deliver more reliably, lowers the chances of being blocked, and keeps your communications compliant with mobile carrier rules. Your business phone system should guide you through this process.
Cost and Considerations When Getting a Second Number
When getting a second phone number, it’s worth comparing both price and features. Most business phone systems typically cost $15–$30 per month, but depending on the service you choose, you can often get more for less, especially with virtual phone number providers that offer flexible plans or free trials.
Beyond pricing, focus on call quality, a stable connection, and responsive customer support so your customer conversations stay smooth and professional. For example, Ringo is one of the most comprehensive options available, offering tools like an AI call assistant, shared team inbox, WhatsApp, AI transcription, and an AI message assistant, features many providers don’t include even at $20/month. It’s currently free during beta.
Conclusion
Getting a phone number with a different area code helps you set up a local presence in many places. When you use Google Voice or VoIP providers, the process gets easier. These services come with business features that help you and your customers stay in touch.
With a new area code, you get advanced features like voicemail transcription and options for unlimited calling. This simple way lets you reach more people, both for work and in your personal life. Give it a try, get started, and see your communication grow!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my area code without changing my phone provider?
Yes, you can change your area code without switching to a new phone provider. There are some services, like virtual phone numbers that help with this. Some phone companies can also let you pick a new area code and keep your current number at the same time. To know more, ask your provider for all the options they offer.
Will people know if I’m not actually located in the area code region?
Using a different area code can make some people curious. They may notice if your location does not be the same as what they expect from that area code. But, there are many people who use virtual numbers and do not have a problem. The key is to keep your communication with others professional.
Is it legal to use an area code different from my physical location?
Using an area code that is not the same as where you live is often allowed in many places. But, you need to follow the rules where you are, especially when it comes to telemarketing or scams. It is a good idea to talk with your phone service provider. They can tell you what you need to know about using an area code in your case.
Can I keep my old number and add a new one with a different area code?
Yes, you can keep your old number when you add a new one that has a different area code. Many phone service providers let you have two or more numbers on the same account. This way, you do not lose any contacts. You can use both numbers for easy communication.
Do virtual phone numbers support emergency services like 911?
Virtual phone numbers usually do not let you call emergency services like 911. With this type of service, your location might not show up the right way, and this can make it hard for help to get to you fast. It is always good to check with your provider so you know about the limits on emergency calls when you use virtual numbers.
