Arkansas Area Codes: Everything You Need to Know
Understanding Arkansas area codes is important for locals, companies, and anyone looking to establish a base in Arkansas. Whether you’re dialing into Little Rock, Fayetteville, or Jonesboro, each region has its own unique area code. This guide will cover the evolution, current use, and gettings started with virtual or local phone numbers in Arkansas.
Overview of Arkansas Phone Codes
Arkansas is split into three primary area codes: 479, 501, and 870. These codes are assigned based on geographic boundaries to serve homes and companies efficiently.
- 501: Central Arkansas, including Benton
- 479: Northwest Arkansas, like Fort Smith
- 870: Eastern and Southern Arkansas, covering Texarkana
History of Arkansas Area Codes
At the start, Arkansas used a single dialing code, 501, assigned in 1947 under the North American Numbering Plan. As population grew, area code 870 was created in 1997, followed by area code 479 in 2002. These changes allowed for more efficient call routing and support for growing demand.
See the full numbering map on NANPA's official website.
What Cities Use Which Area Codes?
501
- Little Rock
- Conway
- Bryant
- North Little Rock
479
- Fayetteville
- Springdale
- Rogers
- Fort Smith
870
- Jonesboro
- Texarkana
- El Dorado
- Pine Bluff
Why Get an Arkansas Local Number?
Getting a local Arkansas phone number gives your company a trusted presence. With more customers preferring to answer local numbers, it’s an effective way to gain credibility.
- Improve local recognition
- Enhance call engagement
- Target specific zones
- Appear statewide
Try the advanced features of Bling’s Business Phone System to connect, manage, and analyze Arkansas-based numbers.
Why Use VoIP in Arkansas
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) empower Arkansas businesses wanting flexible call management, SMS, and AI-backed features. You can set up a virtual number from anywhere in the world. Learn more about this at Bling VoIP Phone Services.
Comparing Arkansas Area Codes
| Area Code | Region | Major Cities |
|---|---|---|
| 501 | Central Arkansas | Little Rock, Conway |
| 479 | Northwest Arkansas | Fayetteville, Fort Smith |
| 870 | South & East Arkansas | Jonesboro, Texarkana |
Steps to Buy an Arkansas Number
Choose a provider that offers specific Arkansas area codes. With Bling's virtual phone number service, you can manage calls, send SMS, and track engagement—all through a cloud-based dashboard.
Common Use Cases
- Local Customer Support
- Inbound Marketing Campaigns
- Multi-location Franchises
- Remote Sales Teams
Where to Learn More
- Wikipedia: List of Arkansas Area Codes
- AreaCodeLocations.info
- YouTube: History of Arkansas Phone Codes
- WhitePages – Arkansas Codes
- AllAreaCodes – Arkansas Overview
Common Questions About AR Codes
1. What is the area code for Little Rock, AR?
Little Rock uses area code 501.
2. Can I get a 479 or 870 number online?
Yes, you can select any Arkansas code while setting up your virtual number.
3. Are Arkansas codes only for landlines?
No, they’re used for mobile, VoIP, and traditional phones.
4. Do area codes change often in Arkansas?
Not frequently. 501, 479, and 870 have remained consistent since the early 2000s.
5. What’s the difference between local and toll-free numbers?
Local numbers use area codes like 479, while toll-free numbers use codes like 800 or 888.
Wrap-Up
Arkansas area codes provide more than just regional identity—they’re tools for local branding, outreach, get an Arkansas phone number and communication. Whether you're starting a business or scaling up, getting a virtual number in 479, 501, or 870 is an affordable and strategic move. Pair it with the right phone system to stay connected anywhere.