Area codes are an essential part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), helping to identify specific geographic regions for telephone numbers. One such prominent area code is 310. If you’ve come across a phone number starting with 310 and are wondering, “Where is area code 310 located?”—you’ve come to the right place! This article covers everything you need to know about area code 310, including its history, location, and significance.
- What is the 310 Area Code?
The 310 area code is assigned to Southern California, covering some of the most iconic and affluent areas in and around Los Angeles County. It serves several cities along the western coast of Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Malibu, Long Beach, and the South Bay area. This area code is widely recognized due to its association with the glamorous lifestyle of California’s coastal communities.
The 310 area code was first introduced in the early 1990s to address the growing demand for phone numbers in Southern California. It remains one of the most recognized area codes in the United States due to its association with famous neighborhoods, celebrities, and major businesses.
- The Geographic Location of Area Code 310
Area code 310 covers a significant portion of Los Angeles County and parts of Ventura County. It primarily serves the following key regions:
- West Los Angeles: Including Santa Monica, Westwood, and Century City.
- South Bay Area: Covering cities like Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Hermosa Beach.
- Beverly Hills: Known for its luxurious homes and high-end shopping.
- Malibu: Famous for its picturesque beaches, celebrity residences, and scenic coastal views.
- Long Beach: The southernmost city within the 310 area, known for its port, waterfront attractions, and vibrant arts scene.
The area code also extends to other notable areas, including El Segundo, Inglewood, Marina del Rey, and Culver City.
- A Brief History of the 310 Area Code
- Before 1991: The entire Southern California region, including Los Angeles and its surrounding areas, was covered by the 213 area code, which was one of the original area codes established in 1947.
- 1991: Due to rapid population growth, increased demand for new phone lines, and the proliferation of mobile devices, area code 310 was introduced as a split from the original 213 area code. This change was necessary to provide more phone numbers for the expanding region.
- 1997: As the demand for phone numbers continued to grow, the 424 area code was introduced as an overlay to the 310 region. This meant that new phone numbers in the same geographic area could either have a 310 or a 424 area code.
- Understanding the Overlay with Area Code 424
An overlay area code is a way to address the shortage of phone numbers in a specific region without forcing existing customers to change their numbers. In 1997, the 424 area code was introduced to overlay the 310 area, meaning that both area codes serve the same geographic region.
What this means for residents and businesses is that, within the 310 area, new phone numbers might also start with 424, but they still serve the same areas. It also requires 10-digit dialing (area code + phone number) for local calls within the region.
- Major Cities and Communities Served by Area Code 310
Here’s a closer look at some of the prominent cities and neighborhoods covered by the 310 area code:
- Beverly Hills
- Known worldwide for its opulent lifestyle, celebrity homes, and high-end shopping along Rodeo Drive.
- Santa Monica
- A beachfront city famous for its iconic pier, vibrant Third Street Promenade, and laid-back atmosphere.
- Malibu
- A picturesque coastal city known for its luxurious beachfront properties, stunning Pacific Ocean views, and popular surf spots.
- Long Beach
- A bustling port city with attractions like the Queen Mary, the Long Beach Aquarium, and a thriving downtown scene.
- South Bay Cities (Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach)
- These cities are known for their beautiful beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and outdoor activities like surfing, beach volleyball, and dining along the waterfront.
- Common Questions About the 310 Area Code
- Is the 310 Area Code Only for Landlines?
No, the 310 area code is used for both landline and mobile phones. It is widely used by businesses, residential customers, and individuals throughout Los Angeles County.
- Can I Get a 310 Area Code Number for My Business?
Yes, many businesses in Southern California, especially those wanting to establish a local presence in the Los Angeles area, often choose phone numbers with the 310 area code. However, due to its popularity, it might be more challenging to find an available 310 number, making 424 a common alternative.
- Is the 310 Area Code Prestigious?
Yes, the 310 area code is often associated with wealth, luxury, and prestige due to its coverage of high-profile areas like Beverly Hills and Malibu. Having a 310 phone number can add a sense of credibility and exclusivity, especially for businesses.
- How to Get a Phone Number with the 310 Area Code
If you’re interested in getting a phone number with a 310 area code, there are several options:
- Cell Phone Carriers: Major providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile often offer numbers with this area code, though availability may be limited due to high demand.
- VoIP Services: Virtual phone services like Google Voice, RingCentral, and Grasshopper allow you to choose a 310 number, which is especially useful for businesses wanting a local presence in the Los Angeles area.
- Landline Providers: If you’re setting up a landline in Southern California, your service provider may offer a 310 number, although the availability might vary.
- The Future of the 310 Area Code
With the ongoing growth of Los Angeles County and the surrounding areas, the demand for phone numbers continues to rise. While the 310 area code remains iconic, the introduction of overlays like 424 has helped meet the need for more numbers. As the population and use of mobile devices grow, additional area codes may be added to ensure ample availability.
Nonetheless, the 310 area code is expected to remain a staple in Southern California, continuing to be associated with the glamorous and bustling areas it serves.
- Fun Facts About the 310 Area Code
- The 310 area code is often referenced in pop culture, including movies, TV shows, and songs that celebrate the glitz and glamor of Los Angeles.
- It’s not uncommon to see celebrities and high-profile individuals with phone numbers starting with 310 due to its association with exclusive neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Malibu.
- The 310 area code has become somewhat of a status symbol, particularly among businesses and individuals who want to project an image of success and sophistication.
Conclusion
The 310 area code is synonymous with the upscale lifestyle of Southern California, covering some of the most well-known and affluent areas in Los Angeles County. Whether you’re living in the heart of Santa Monica, running a business in Beverly Hills, or simply enjoying the coastal views in Malibu, having a 310 phone number can add a touch of prestige and local recognition.
With its rich history, cultural significance, and strong ties to some of the most iconic areas in the United States, the 310 area code is more than just a set of numbers—it’s a symbol of the Southern California lifestyle.