Florida Area Codes

About Florida Area Codes

Florida has 16 active area codes. That might seem like a lot, but it makes sense when you think about it - the more people living in a state, the more phone numbers are needed. Each area code can only handle so many phone numbers before it runs out.

The first area code in Florida was created back in 1947. That was when the phone company was setting up the area code system across the whole country. At that time, one or two area codes was usually enough for most states. But as the population grew and everyone started carrying cell phones, more area codes were needed.

Time Zones

Here's something to watch out for: Florida has area codes in 2 different time zones. This means when you're calling someone in Florida, you need to think about what time it is where they are. You don't want to accidentally call someone at 6 AM because you forgot they're in a different time zone than you expected.

Eastern Time (ET)

239305321352386407727754772786813863904941954

Central Time (CT)

850

How Area Codes Work in Florida

Different area codes in Florida cover different parts of the state. Usually, big cities and their surrounding areas get their own area codes because lots of people live there and they need lots of phone numbers. Smaller cities might share an area code that covers a larger geographic area.

Sometimes when a region runs out of available phone numbers, they add a new area code. They can do this in two ways: either split the region into two parts (so some people have to change their numbers), or add a new code that covers the same area (so new phone numbers get the new code, but existing numbers don't change).

What You Should Know

Just because someone has a Florida area code doesn't mean they're actually in Florida right now. People can keep their phone numbers when they move to different states. Your cousin who moved from Florida to another state probably still has their old Florida number.

If you need to dial an area code for local calls depends on where you are in Florida. Some areas require you to dial all 10 digits (area code + number) even for local calls. Other areas let you just dial the 7-digit number for local calls. When in doubt, dial all 10 digits - it always works.

Watch Out for Scams

Scammers can make their calls show any area code they want, including Florida area codes. So don't automatically trust a call just because it looks like it's from Florida. If someone calls asking for money, personal information, or saying you've won something, be very careful - even if it shows a local area code.

Common Questions

Why does Florida need 16 area codes?

Each area code can only provide about 7-8 million phone numbers. With everyone having cell phones, plus all the fax lines, business lines, and other services that need numbers, states with large populations need multiple area codes. Florida has enough people and devices that 16 area codes are needed to provide enough phone numbers for everyone.

Can I choose which Florida area code I get?

Sometimes, yes. When you get a new phone number, your carrier might let you pick from the area codes available in your area. But it depends on what area codes serve your location and whether they have numbers available. If you want a specific area code, ask your phone company when you're setting up service.

Do I have to change my number if they add a new area code?

It depends on how they add the new code. If they do a "split" (dividing the area into two parts), some people might have to change numbers. But if they do an "overlay" (adding a new code over the same area), you keep your existing number. Overlays are more common now because nobody likes having to change their number.

How do I report spam calls from Florida numbers?

You can report unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission at donotcall.gov or ftc.gov. You should also register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry. And check if your phone carrier has spam-blocking services - many do, and they can help filter out a lot of junk calls.

Florida Area Code Map

All Area Codes