How to Get a Phone Number in a Different Area Code

Getting a phone number with a different area code doesn’t necessarily mean moving or changing your current number. Maybe you’ve relocated but still want a number associated with your hometown. Or maybe you simply want a second phone number with an area code of your choosing.

There are several ways to get a phone number in a different area code, including through your mobile phone service provider or a second-number app. Some options replace your existing number, while others let you add a separate one to the phone you already have.

The best approach depends on the area code you want, number availability, and how you plan to use it.

How to Get a Phone Number in a Different Area Code

Getting a new area code looks a little different depending on the type of phone service you use. Mobile providers, landline services, and second-number apps each have their own process for selecting and assigning numbers. Here’s what you can expect from each:

Get a Number Through Your Phone Service Provider

Some mobile phone service providers, like Verizon and AT&T, let customers search for available numbers by area code when requesting a number change. Your options depend on which numbers the provider has available, and changing your number may involve additional fees. Check your provider’s selection process and available area codes before making the switch.

Use a Landline Provider

Home phone providers may offer numbers with different area codes, depending on the service location and available numbers. This option is generally more practical for a fixed location than for someone who wants an additional number on their mobile phone.

Get a Second Number Through an App

Second-number apps let you add another phone number without replacing your current one. Many let you browse available area codes and select a number for calls and texts on your existing phone.

This can be a convenient way to keep your personal number separate, especially if you don’t need an entirely new mobile line. Features, area code availability, and pricing vary by app.

How to Get a Different Area Code With a Second-Number App

Second-number apps offer a way to choose a different area code without changing your current mobile phone plan. While the exact process varies by provider, getting started usually involves a few steps:

1. Download a second-number app and create an account.
2. Search for your preferred area code.
3. Browse the available phone numbers and select one.
4. Check the pricing, subscription requirements, and included features.
5. Complete the setup to start using your new number.

Before choosing an app, confirm that it supports both calling and texting, check how long you can keep your number, and review any requirements for keeping it active. Not every provider offers the same area codes, so it’s also worth checking availability before signing up.

Can You Choose Any Area Code You Want?

Not always. Providers can only offer numbers from their available inventory, so you may find your preferred area code but have little choice over the remaining digits.

It’s also worth distinguishing between an area code and a specific location. A single area code can cover multiple cities, while some cities have several area codes. Choosing one doesn’t guarantee a number tied to a specific neighborhood or city.

How to Choose the Right Area Code

Your choice may depend on where you have personal connections or how you plan to use the number.

• A familiar area code: Keeping an area code associated with your hometown can make sense after moving, especially if you still have friends and family in the area.
• A separate number for privacy: Using a different area code can help distinguish a second number from your primary one. However, it’s the separate number itself that keeps your personal contact information private.
• A number you’ll use regularly: Consider whether the area code will still suit your needs over time. Changing numbers later means updating the people and accounts that rely on it.

There’s no requirement to choose an area code that matches your current location. The more important consideration is whether the number will serve its intended purpose.

Get a Phone Number in a Different Area Code With Burner

You don’t need to replace your current phone number to get one with a different area code. With Burner, you can choose from available U.S. and Canadian area codes and add a second number for calls and texts on the phone you already have.

Whether you’re dating, selling something online, or simply keeping your personal number private, Burner makes it easy to manage conversations without handing out your primary number. You can also take advantage of features like spam-call blocking and voicemail to keep your second number organized.

Get Burner to explore available area codes and find a second number that works for you.