Introduction
The 213 area code is one of the most iconic telecommunications identifiers, closely associated with the heart of Los Angeles. It serves downtown LA and the surrounding neighborhoods, making it a highly desirable phone number for businesses looking to establish a local presence in California. As one of the original area codes in the state, it reflects the city’s vibrant culture, diverse population, and rich history.
Over the decades, the 213 prefix has become a symbol of credibility and local identity in one of the world’s most influential cities. In this guide, we will explore the history of the 213 region code, the areas it covers, its population, and the business advantages it offers. We will also explain how companies, including Ringflow, can obtain this iconic area code.
Key Takeaways:
- It covers downtown Los Angeles and surrounding districts, offering businesses local visibility in a thriving city.
- The region boasts a diverse and dynamic economy, with opportunities across many industries.
- An area code 213 provides businesses with credibility, strengthens customer trust, and helps companies tap into a broad and diverse audience.
- Businesses can obtain an area code 213 through telecommunications companies or by porting an existing number.
What Is the 213 Area Code?
The area code 213 is a telecommunications identifier that serves central Los Angeles, covering downtown LA and its surrounding neighborhoods. Established in 1947, it’s one of California’s original area codes, playing a crucial role in organizing the state’s phone number system.

Today, LA area code is synonymous with the heart of LA, offering businesses and residents reliable communication services. It connects industries including entertainment, finance, technology, and hospitality, making it an essential part of LA’s infrastructure.
When Was the 213 Area Code Established?
It was created in 1947 by the California Public Utilities Commission, marking one of the first area codes assigned to the state. At the time, Los Angeles was experiencing rapid growth, and the need for organized telecommunications became critical.

The introduction of the 213 code helped streamline the phone numbering system in the growing metropolis. Initially, the area code covered a large portion of Los Angeles County, but as the population surged in the following decades, new area codes were introduced to manage the demand.
What Areas Does the 213 Area Code Cover?
The LA area code spans several key districts within Los Angeles, encompassing a diverse blend of cultural, commercial, and residential areas. This dynamic region is home to vibrant neighborhoods, offering a unique combination of history, modernity, and growth opportunities. Let’s explore these communities in more detail.

Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Downtown Los Angeles is the beating heart of the city, housing a diverse array of businesses, from multinational corporations to small startups. It also offers a vibrant mix of cultural landmarks, recreational spaces, and entertainment options, making it a hub of activity and innovation.
Key features:
- A growing tech ecosystem and startup community
The city is becoming a hotspot for innovative startups and tech companies, fostering collaboration, investment, and creative growth across industries. - Rich cultural and historical significance
The area is known for its diverse cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant communities, contributing to a unique identity and spirit. - Proximity to major business hubs
Being strategically located near key business districts, the region offers easy access to international markets, supply chains, and significant commercial opportunities.
DTLA is home to landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Olvera Street, and Grand Central Market. It’s also known for its growing tech scene, with many entrepreneurs and creatives calling it home.
Huntington Park
Huntington Park is a bustling area known for its diverse community and vibrant small businesses. The neighborhood is predominantly Latino, contributing to its unique cultural vibe. Local markets, eateries, and shops attract visitors from both inside and outside the city.
Its close proximity to downtown LA makes it an ideal location for entrepreneurs, offering affordability while maintaining convenient access to major business hubs, networking opportunities, and the vibrant economic landscape of the city, driving growth and success for businesses.
Montebello
Montebello is a suburban city that offers a mix of residential neighborhoods and local businesses. Known for its close-knit community, Montebello benefits from its proximity to major freeways, making it ideal for businesses looking to expand while maintaining a local presence.
What Is the Population of the 213 Area Code?
The 213 area code is home to a diverse population that reflects the multicultural makeup of Los Angeles. Roughly 45% of the population in the area code 213 identifies as Hispanic or Latino, while significant portions of the population also belong to Asian, African American, and other communities.

This demographic diversity has shaped the area into a cultural and economic powerhouse. Businesses can leverage this diversity, using virtual phone numbers to cater to various needs, foster innovation, and expand their reach across diverse communities.
Key business benefits:
- The ability to target diverse markets
Businesses can tap into various demographic segments, allowing for tailored offerings that resonate with different consumer needs and preferences. - A broad customer base for local businesses
Local businesses can attract a wide range of customers, benefiting from both regional and global outreach, ensuring sustained growth opportunities. - A culturally rich and inclusive environment for collaboration
This environment fosters innovation by bringing together diverse perspectives, encouraging cross-cultural exchanges, and nurturing a collaborative spirit among communities.
What Are the Benefits of Having a 213 Area Code for Businesses?
For businesses, using an LA area code provides multiple advantages, including enhanced local trust, recognition, and credibility. It connects companies to a thriving economy, offering access to diverse industries. A 213 number helps businesses establish a strong local presence and thrive in a competitive market.

Symbolizes Downtown LA’s Vibrant Urban Center
Having an area code 213 instantly connects a business to downtown Los Angeles, a symbol of urban energy and creativity. This association helps businesses appear more established and trustworthy to potential customers, who associate the area code with one of the world’s most influential cities.
Attracts Customers from Diverse Backgrounds
The cultural diversity within the LA area code offers a significant advantage for businesses. By establishing a presence in this vibrant region, companies can connect with people from various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, enabling them to cater to diverse needs and foster innovation across markets.
Access to a Thriving Economy
Located in one of the world’s largest economies, Los Angeles is home to industries like entertainment, technology, finance, and real estate, offering growth opportunities. The FCC ensures efficient telecommunications infrastructure, supporting business development and networking in the region.
How Can Businesses Obtain a 213 Area Code?
Obtaining an LA area code for your business is a straightforward process. Businesses, including Ringflow, can choose from a few different options depending on their specific needs.

Contacting a Telecommunications Company
The simplest way to obtain a 213 area code is by contacting a telecommunications provider. Popular providers include AT&T, Verizon, and My Country Mobile. When selecting a provider, businesses should consider:
- Service features (call forwarding, voicemail, auto-attendant)
- Pricing and plans
- Customer service reputation
Porting an Existing Number
If your business already has a phone number but wants to switch to the 213 area code, you can port your existing number to a new service provider. Porting allows you to keep your current contact information, minimizing disruptions and preserving brand recognition.
Conclusion
The 213 area code is one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable and valuable prefixes, symbolizing the city’s rich history, diversity, and economic strength. Established in 1947, it connects businesses to the vibrant culture and dynamic economy of downtown LA, making it a key asset.
For businesses, a 213 number provides local credibility, access to a broad audience, and establishes a presence in one of the world’s most influential cities. Whether obtained through a new application or number porting, the 213 area code remains a valuable tool for success in Los Angeles for companies like Ringflow.
FAQ's
It connects your business to downtown LA, enhancing local credibility and trust with customers in a diverse market.
You can contact a telecommunications provider or port an existing number to acquire a 213 area code. Popular providers include AT&T, Verizon, and My Country Mobile.
Yes, using a local 213 number can help boost your local SEO efforts by signaling to search engines that your business is based in Los Angeles.
Any business looking to establish a local presence in downtown Los Angeles or attract customers from the diverse LA population can benefit from using a 213 area code.
In addition to 213, Los Angeles is also served by 323, 310, 818, and 626, among others. Each area code serves different regions of the city.


