Arkansas doesn’t rely on a single area code. Instead, the Natural State uses 4 active area codes that cover different regions across the state. These include 501 for central Arkansas, 479 for the northwest, and 870 paired with the new 327 overlay for the remaining areas. The most recent addition is area code 327, which launched in February 2024 to support the 870 region as phone numbers became scarce.

Understanding these codes helps you identify where calls originate and makes it easier to connect with people throughout Arkansas. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or visitor, knowing which area code corresponds to each city keeps communication smooth and organized.

What Is The Area Code Of Arkansas

All 4 Arkansas Area Codes (Complete List)

This state currently operates with four verified area codes, each serving distinct parts of the state:

Codes:

  • 501: Central Arkansas (Little Rock, Conway, North Little Rock)
  • 479: Northwest Arkansas (Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers)
  • 870: Northern, eastern, and southern Arkansas (Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, El Dorado)
  • 327: Overlay for 870 region (same geographic coverage)

The 327 code functions as an overlay, meaning it shares the same territory as 870 rather than replacing it. This setup allows existing residents to keep their numbers while new phone lines receive the 327 designation.

Arkansas's Major Cities and Their Area Codes

Each major city in Arkansas falls under one or more area codes based on its location. Here’s a quick reference guide:

  • Little Rock: 501
  • Fort Smith: 479
  • Fayetteville: 479
  • Bentonville: 479
  • Rogers: 479
  • Jonesboro: 870, 327
  • Pine Bluff: 870, 327
  • Conway: 501
  • Springdale: 479
  • El Dorado: 870, 327
  • Hot Springs: 501
  • North Little Rock: 501
  • Texarkana: 870, 327

These combinations make calling within Arkansas straightforward, even as the 327 overlay expands coverage across growing communities.

Understanding Arkansas's Newest Area Code: 327

Area code 327 officially launched in February 2024 as an overlay to the existing 870 region. This means both 327 and 870 cover the exact same geographic area across northern, eastern, and southern Arkansas. The overlay system was chosen instead of splitting the region to avoid forcing residents and businesses to change their established phone numbers.

With the introduction of 327, everyone in the 870/327 region must now use 10-digit dialing for all calls, even local ones. This requirement ensures calls route correctly, whether you’re dialing an 870 or 327 number. There’s no geographic difference between the two codes, so your neighbor might have an 870 number while you receive a 327 number, despite living on the same street.

How Arkansas Area Codes Are Divided

That state follows the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which organizes phone numbers by geographic regions and population density. Here’s how the state breaks down:

501: Covers central Arkansas, including the Little Rock metropolitan area, Conway, and surrounding communities. This is the state’s most densely populated region and includes the capital city.

479: Serves northwest Arkansas, home to major cities like Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Bentonville, and Rogers. This area has seen significant growth due to corporate headquarters and the booming Northwest Arkansas corridor.

870/327: Covers the rest of the state as an overlay. This includes northern Arkansas, the entire eastern region along the Mississippi River, and southern areas near Louisiana. Cities like Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Texarkana, and El Dorado all use these codes.

The History Behind Arkansas Area Codes

Arkansas began with a single area code in 1947. Area code 501 was one of the original 86 codes introduced when the North American Numbering Plan launched, and it covered the entire state for 50 years.

As Arkansas’s population grew and mobile phones became standard, 501 couldn’t keep up with demand. In 1997, area code 870 was created to serve the more rural parts of the state, leaving 501 for central Arkansas. Five years later, in 2002, the rapidly growing northwest region received its own code when 479 split from 501.

The latest change came in February 2024 with the addition of 327 as an overlay to 870, reflecting continued growth and the universal need for phone numbers across landlines, mobile devices, and business systems.

10-Digit Dialing in Arkansas: What You Need to Know

If you live in the 870/327 overlay region, you must dial all 10 digits for every call, including local ones. This means dialing the area code plus the seven-digit phone number, even if you’re calling someone across the street.

For long-distance calls within the United States, dial 1 followed by the area code and number. If you’re calling Arkansas from outside the country, use your country’s exit code, then +1 (the US country code), followed by the Arkansas area code and phone number. Emergency services like 911 still work without requiring the area code.

Common Questions

What is the main area code for Arkansas?

Arkansas has no single main code. Area code 501 is the oldest and most recognized, covering Little Rock and central Arkansas.

Which area code is for Little Rock?

Area code 501 serves Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, and the surrounding central Arkansas region.

Why does Arkansas need a new area code?

The 327 overlay was added in 2024 because the 870 region was running out of available phone numbers due to population growth, increased mobile phone usage, and demand for business lines. The overlay lets existing customers keep their numbers while providing fresh inventory for new users.