Colorado currently has 6 active area codes: 303, 719, 720, 970, 983, and 748. These codes are divided across three main geographic regions serving different parts of the state. Some areas use an overlay system, meaning multiple codes serve the same location. This approach was implemented to meet growing demand for phone numbers without requiring residents to change their existing ones.
All 6 Colorado Area Codes By Region
Denver Metro Area Codes (303/720/983)
The Denver metropolitan area uses three overlapping area codes that cover the same geographic region. Area code 303 is the original and most iconic, established in 1947 for the entire state. Area code 720 was added in 1998, and 983 became active on June 17, 2022. These codes serve Denver, Boulder, Aurora, Littleton, Golden, and the surrounding Front Range communities. Because this is an overlay area, residents must always dial 10 digits (area code plus phone number) for all local calls, even within the same area code.
Southern Colorado (719)
Area code 719 serves the southern portion of Colorado, including major cities like Colorado Springs and Pueblo. This area code was established in 1988 as the first split from the original 303. The 719 region extends westward into mountain communities such as Canon City, Buena Vista, Alamosa, and all the way south to Trinidad near the New Mexico border.
Northern & Western Colorado (970/748)
Area codes 970 and 748 cover the largest geographic area in Colorado, spanning from the northern front range to the entire western slope. The 970 area code was created in 1995 and includes Fort Collins, Loveland, Grand Junction, Vail, Aspen, Steamboat Springs, Gunnison, Durango, and Pagosa Springs. Area code 748 is Colorado’s newest, activated on July 7, 2025, as an overlay to 970. Like the Denver Metro area, this region now requires 10-digit dialing for all calls.
How To Use Colorado Area Codes (Quick Guide)
Understanding when and how to dial area codes in Colorado is straightforward. In overlay areas (Denver Metro with 303/720/983 and Northern/Western Colorado with 970/748), you must always dial all 10 digits for every call, including local calls within your own area code. This applies to both landlines and cell phones. For the 719 region in Southern Colorado, 10-digit dialing is also required. Cell phone users typically have their phones automatically configured to dial the area code, making this process seamless.
Which Colorado Area Code Do I Need?
Finding the right area code depends on your location:
- Denver, Boulder, Aurora, Golden, Littleton → 303, 720, or 983
- Colorado Springs, Pueblo → 719
- Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley → 970 or 748
- Grand Junction, Montrose → 970 or 748
- Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs → 970 or 748
- Durango, Pagosa Springs → 970 or 748
When getting a new phone number, your service provider will assign an available area code based on your location. In overlay areas, you may receive any of the applicable codes.
Colorado Area Code History & Changes
Colorado’s area code system has evolved significantly to accommodate population growth. In 1947, area code 303 was assigned to the entire state as one of the original North American area codes. The first split occurred in 1988 when 719 was created for Southern Colorado. By 1995, continued growth led to the creation of 970 for Northern and Western regions.
Just three years later in 1998, 720 was added as an overlay to 303 in the Denver Metro area. Most recently, 983 joined the Denver Metro overlay in 2022, and 748 became active in July 2025 for the Northern and Western regions. These changes reflect Colorado’s rapid population growth and increased demand for phone numbers from cell phones, businesses, and digital services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many area codes does Colorado have?
Colorado has 6 active area codes: 303, 719, 720, 970, 983, and 748.
What is Denver's area code?
Denver uses three area codes: 303, 720, and 983. All three serve the same geographic area as part of an overlay system.
Why does Colorado have multiple area codes?
Multiple area codes were necessary due to population growth and the increasing demand for phone numbers from cell phones, pagers, fax machines, and internet services. Rather than forcing existing residents to change their numbers, overlay codes were added.
Do I always need to dial the area code in Colorado?
Yes, 10-digit dialing is required throughout Colorado. You must dial the area code plus the seven-digit phone number for all calls, including local calls.
What's the difference between 303 and 720?
There is no geographic difference. Both area codes serve the exact same Denver Metro region. The 720 code was added in 1998 because 303 numbers were running out. Neither code is “better” than the other.
Can I choose my Colorado area code?
Phone service providers assign area codes based on availability in your region. While you sometimes can request a specific area code, availability depends on which numbers remain unassigned. In overlay areas, you might receive any of the applicable codes.
Final Thoughts
Colorado’s 6 area codes are organized into three main regions: Denver Metro (303/720/983), Southern Colorado (719), and Northern/Western Colorado (970/748). Remember that 10-digit dialing is required statewide. The 748 area code, activated in July 2025, is the newest addition and will be assigned as 970 numbers become depleted. Whether you’re a resident, moving to Colorado, or just need to make a call, understanding these area codes helps you navigate the state’s phone system with confidence.