Arkansas Area Codes: Your Essential Reference

Knowing about Arkansas area codes is important for residents, companies, and those wanting to establish a presence in Arkansas. Whether you’re dialing into Little Rock, Fayetteville, or Jonesboro, each region has its own specific area code. This guide will cover the history, current use, and gettings started with virtual or local phone numbers in Arkansas.
Overview of Arkansas Phone Codes
Arkansas is divided into three primary area codes: 479, 501, and 870. These codes are assigned based on geographic zones to serve homes and companies efficiently.
- 501: Mid-state, including Benton
- 479: Northwestern region, like Fayetteville
- 870: South and East zones, covering Jonesboro
Arkansas Area Code Timeline
Initially, Arkansas used a single area code, 501, allocated 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 better number distribution and accommodation of 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 Choose Arkansas Area Codes?
Using a local Arkansas phone number provides your company a trusted presence. With more customers preferring to answer local numbers, it’s an effective way to gain credibility.
- Boost brand familiarity
- Enhance call engagement
- Target specific zones
- Appear statewide
Try the advanced features of Bling’s Business Phone System to run smart communications through Arkansas-based numbers.
Using VoIP and Virtual Numbers in Arkansas
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) empower Arkansas businesses wanting cost-efficient 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.
Differences Between 479, 501, and 870
Area Code | Region | Major Cities |
---|---|---|
501 | Central Arkansas | Little Rock, Conway |
479 | Northwest Arkansas | Fayetteville, Fort Smith |
870 | South & East Arkansas | Jonesboro, Texarkana |
Setting Up a Local Arkansas Number
Select a VoIP platform that offers specific Arkansas area codes. With Bling's virtual phone number service, you can route leads, send SMS, and track engagement—all through a cloud-based dashboard.
Who Uses Arkansas Area Codes?
- Local Customer Support
- Inbound Marketing Campaigns
- Multi-location Franchises
- Remote Sales Teams
Helpful Resources on Arkansas Area Codes
- Wikipedia: List of Arkansas Area Codes
- AreaCodeLocations.info
- YouTube: History of Arkansas Phone Codes
- WhitePages – Arkansas Codes
- AllAreaCodes – Arkansas Overview
FAQs About Arkansas Area 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. Arkansas phone number for Google Voice 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, 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.