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Area code 213 is the telephone area code for downtown Los Angeles (DTLA), California. It was created in 1947 as one of the original North American Numbering Plan codes and now operates alongside overlays 323 and 738 in the Pacific Time Zone.
Where is area code 213 located
Area code 213 covers a compact section of central Los Angeles in California, spanning approximately 16.7 square miles. Despite its small footprint, it represents one of the most densely active and recognized parts of the city.
The area centers on DTLA and extends into surrounding neighborhoods where daily activity is concentrated. These include Downtown LA, Koreatown, Westlake, Pico-Union, the Historic Core, the Financial District, Chinatown, Little Tokyo, South Park, and the Wholesale District. These neighborhoods combine residential buildings, offices, retail corridors, and transit hubs, which contribute to the continued demand for 213 numbers.
ZIP codes help define the coverage more precisely and show how tightly packed the region is.
Downtown and the Financial District zip codes include:
- 90012
- 90013
- 90017
The Historic Core Zip Codes:
- 90014
- 90015
Koreatown Zip Codes:
- 90005
- 90006
- 90010
Westlake is primarily 90057, while Pico-Union overlaps with 90006. Chinatown and Little Tokyo both fall within 90012. South Park uses 90015, and the Wholesale District is centered around 90021.
Area code 213 does not cover all of Los Angeles. Beverly Hills is served by area codes 310 and 424, and Hollywood is primarily served by 323. Area code boundaries in Los Angeles have shifted over time as demand for phone numbers increased, which is why nearby neighborhoods can use different codes.
As of March 2026, area code 213 operates as part of a full overlay with 323 and 738. All three area codes now serve the same geographic region. A 213 number still indicates central Los Angeles, but it no longer corresponds to a specific neighborhood within that area.
Area code 213 is often associated with central Los Angeles identity, especially in older listings, institutions, and long-established phone numbers. While overlays have expanded the available number pool, 213 remains closely tied to downtown and nearby neighborhoods. That association can influence how people interpret incoming calls or messages, particularly within Los Angeles.
Area code 213 history and timeline
Area code 213 is one of the original area codes created under the North American Numbering Plan, and its history reflects the growth of Los Angeles and California over time.
- 1947: Area code 213 was introduced as one of the first 86 area codes in the United States, originally covering the entire state of California.
- 1951: Area code 714 was created to serve Orange County and San Diego, marking the first split from 213.
- 1984: Area code 818 was introduced for the San Fernando Valley and San Gabriel Valley, further reducing the size of 213.
- 1991: Area code 310 was introduced for West Los Angeles and the South Bay, concentrating 213 more tightly around central Los Angeles.
- 1998: Area code 323 was added as an overlay for South and East Los Angeles, introducing overlapping area codes in the region.
- 2017: The boundary between 213 and 323 was eliminated, creating a full overlay where both codes serve the same geographic area.
- November 2024: Area code 738 was introduced as an additional overlay to meet ongoing demand for new phone numbers.
Each change reflects the same pattern: as population and device usage increase, more numbers are required, and existing area codes are either split or expanded through overlays.
Area code 213 also carries cultural significance. The hip hop group 213, made up of Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Warren G, took its name from the Los Angeles area code, reinforcing its connection to the city’s identity.
Area code 213 scam alert
As of 2023, area code 213 is the most reported scam area code in California, according to BeenVerified. This does not mean every call from a 213 number is a scam, but it does mean the area code appears frequently in reported spam and fraud activity.
A 213 number can look local, especially if you live in or near Los Angeles. That familiarity can make calls feel more trustworthy at first glance, which is why the area code is often used in scam attempts.
Most scams follow a similar pattern. They create urgency, appear official, or feel personal enough to lower your guard. The details vary, but the goal is usually to get you to share information or send money.
1. Chinese consulate robocall
This scam typically begins with a recorded message, often in Mandarin, before switching to English. It claims there is an issue involving a package, document, or legal matter connected to a government office.
You might hear a message saying you have an “important document waiting at the consulate” and that you need to press a number to speak with an officer or avoid legal consequences.
Action step: Hang up immediately. Do not press any buttons or follow prompts. Government agencies do not request action through automated calls.
2. Social Security suspension threat
This scam uses a recorded or live message claiming your Social Security number has been suspended or linked to criminal activity.
The call often states that your number has been flagged for suspicious activity and prompts you to press a key to resolve the issue with a representative.
Action step: Do not engage. The Social Security Administration does not suspend numbers or make threats by phone.
3. LADWP utility shutoff scam
This scam targets Los Angeles residents by impersonating the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The caller claims your service will be shut off unless immediate payment is made.
The message usually frames this as a final notice, with pressure to act quickly to avoid losing power the same day.
Action step: Hang up and contact LADWP directly through its official website. Do not make payments based on unsolicited calls.
4. Crypto SMS scam
This scam arrives as a text message and often includes your name. It promotes a crypto app or investment opportunity and encourages quick action.
The message may look personalized, suggesting your account is ready or that you’ve been selected to start earning returns.
Action step: Do not click links or download apps from unknown messages. Delete the text.
5. FaceTime harassment calls
This scam involves repeated or unexpected FaceTime calls from unknown 213 numbers, often late at night or in quick succession. In some cases, the content may become inappropriate or uncomfortable if answered.
These calls are meant to provoke a reaction or create discomfort rather than start a legitimate conversation.
Action step: Decline the call, block the number, and report it if the behavior continues.
Legitimate 213 numbers
Not every call from 213 is a scam. Many trusted organizations in Los Angeles use this area code.
How to get a 213 phone number
Getting a 213 phone number does not require switching your phone service provider or setting up a new device. You can create one in a few steps and start using it right away.
- Download Burner from the App Store or Google Play
Install the app and create your account. - Search available numbers with the 213 area code
Browse available options and choose a number that fits your preference. - Start calling and texting from your new number
Your second number works alongside your existing setup, with no contracts or additional hardware required.
A 213 number works like any other phone number. You can send texts, receive calls, and manage conversations without changing your primary number. Everything stays in one place, just with a bit more separation.
A second phone number is useful when you value privacy. Instead of sharing your personal digits, an anonymous and untraceable phone number can be a viable option.
Personal use
A 213 number fits situations where sharing your number is part of the interaction, but keeping it contained still matters.
This can include dating apps, online marketplaces, food delivery, event signups, or short-term rentals. In each case, you are giving your number to a platform or a person you may not interact with long-term.
Using a second number keeps those conversations separate. If the situation changes or the messages stop being useful, you can remove the number without affecting your personal contacts.
When a local number helps
A local area code can make interactions feel more familiar, especially in the City of Angels, where location carries context.
A 213 related phone number is often regarded as one of the best area codes in the USA. That can make replies feel more grounded when you are coordinating plans, responding to listings, or connecting through location-based apps.
It does not change what you are saying. It just makes the interaction feel like it belongs there. When the interaction ends, the number does not need to follow you with it.
If you need a custom phone number, you can create one in minutes with Burner. Choose a number, start using it right away, and keep your personal number separate from the conversations that don’t need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is area code 213 a California area code?
Yes, area code 213 is a California area code that serves central Los Angeles. It has been in use since 1947 and remains one of the original codes in the North American Numbering Plan. As of March 2026, it operates alongside overlays 323 and 738 in the same geographic area.
What cities are in area code 213?
Area code 213 covers neighborhoods within the city of Los Angeles rather than multiple cities. It includes Downtown LA, Koreatown, Westlake, Chinatown, and other central neighborhoods. The coverage is geographically small but highly concentrated in the core of the city.
Is area code 213 the same as 323?
No, area code 213 and 323 are different area codes, but they serve the same region. As of March 2026, both operate as overlays across central Los Angeles, which means either code can be assigned within the same neighborhoods.
Can I keep my 213 number if I move out of state?
Yes, you can keep a 213 number if you move out of state, depending on your phone service provider. The number is not tied to your physical location, so you can continue using it as long as your service remains active.
What time zone is area code 213?
Area code 213 is in the Pacific Standard Time Zone (PST). It follows UTC−8 during standard time and UTC−7 during daylight saving time, which applies across the Los Angeles region.
Is a call from area code 213 a scam?
No, a call from area code 213 is not automatically a scam. While some scams use this area code, many legitimate organizations and public institutions also operate within it. The context of the call matters more than the number itself.
How do I get a 213 area code phone number?
You can get a 213 phone number by using an app like Burner and selecting an available number with that area code. The process takes a few minutes and does not require a new device or contract. As of March 2026, availability depends on current inventory within the overlay system.
What is the 738 area code overlay?
Area code 738 is an overlay introduced in November 2024 to support demand for new phone numbers in Los Angeles. As of March 2026, it shares the same geographic coverage as 213 and 323, meaning all three codes operate in the same region.
Does area code 213 cover Beverly Hills?
No, area code 213 does not cover Beverly Hills. That area is served by area codes 310 and 424. Area code 213 is limited to central Los Angeles neighborhoods.
Who is the rap group 213?
213 is a hip hop group from Long Beach made up of Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Warren G. The group’s name references the Los Angeles area code, which has become part of the city’s cultural identity.
