Arkansas Area Codes: A Complete Guide

Understanding Arkansas area codes is important for residents, businesses, and anyone looking to build a base in Arkansas. Whether you’re calling Little Rock, Fayetteville, or Jonesboro, each area has its own unique area code. You’ll learn about the evolution, current use, and benefits of using virtual or local phone numbers in Arkansas.

Arkansas Area Codes Overview

Arkansas is divided into multiple area codes: 479, 501, and 870. These codes are distributed based on regional boundaries to serve residents and businesses efficiently.

• 501: Mid-state, including Conway
• 479: Northwestern region, like Fayetteville
• 870: South and East zones, covering Jonesboro

Arkansas Area Code Timeline

At the start, Arkansas used a single dialing code, 501, assigned in 1947 under the North American Numbering Plan. As usage increased, area code 870 was created in 1997, followed by area code 479 in 2002. These changes allowed for better call routing and support for growing demand.

See the full numbering map on NANPA's official website.

City Breakdown by Area Code

501

• Little Rock
• Conway
• Bryant
• North Little Rock

479

• Fayetteville
• Springdale
• Rogers
• Fort Smith

870

• Jonesboro
• Texarkana
• El Dorado
• Pine Bluff

Why Get an Arkansas Local Number?

Getting a local Arkansas phone number gives your business a regional presence. With more customers preferring to answer local numbers, it’s an easy way to increase trust.

1. Improve local recognition
2. Increase pickup rates
3. Segment support by region
4. Appear statewide

Try the advanced features of Bling’s Business Phone System to connect, manage, and analyze Arkansas-based numbers.

Using VoIP and Virtual Numbers in Arkansas

VoIP services empower Arkansas businesses wanting flexible 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

How to Get an Arkansas Virtual 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.

Common Use Cases

• Local Customer Support
• Inbound Marketing Campaigns
• Multi-location Franchises
• Remote Sales Teams

Where to Learn More

• Wikipedia: List of Arkansas Area Codes
• AreaCodeLocations.info
• YouTube: History of Arkansas Phone Codes
• WhitePages – Arkansas Codes
• AllAreaCodes – Arkansas Overview

Arkansas Phone Code FAQ

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. 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 check here it with the right phone system to stay connected anywhere.