Area codes are those three-digit prefixes that kick off every phone number in the North American Numbering Plan (NANPA). They’re geographic markers, telling the phone system which region to route your call to.
One of the most recognizable area codes in Southern California is 424. It’s a big deal for both businesses and residents in the Los Angeles area.
This article aims to give you a complete picture of the location of area code 424, including its history and what it means for businesses and individuals living and working there.
Understanding the 424 Area Code
Let’s get into the core details of the 424 area code.
Is 424 a Real Area Code?
Yes, area code 424 is a real, legitimate, and operational area code. It was introduced in 2006 because the original 310 area code was running out of available numbers.
The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) is the organization that assigns and manages area codes. When an area code starts running out of assignable numbers, NANPA steps in to find a solution.
What is an Overlay?
An overlay is when multiple area codes serve the same geographic region. The 424 area code is an overlay, which means that it serves the same geographical area as the 310 and the 562 area codes.
This means that if you’re calling someone in this area, you’ll need to dial the area code plus the seven-digit phone number.
Where is the 424 area code located?
The 424 area code covers the western part of Los Angeles County in California, a heavily populated and economically important region.
Here are some of the cities and communities you’ll find in the 424 area code:
- Beverly Hills
- Carson
- Culver City
- El Segundo
- Gardena
- Hawthorne
- Inglewood
- Manhattan Beach
- Redondo Beach
- Santa Monica
- Torrance
- West Hollywood
The tale of two codes: 424 and 310
The 424 area code actually shares a geographic region with the 310 area code. That means if you live in this part of L.A. County, you might have a phone number with a 310 area code or a 424 area code.
Because of this overlay, you have to dial all 10 digits (area code plus the seven-digit number) when you make a call.
The 424 Area Code In-Depth: Territory and Operational Timing
Area code 424 covers a lot of ground in the Los Angeles area. Here’s a closer look at the territory it includes and how its location affects communication.
Key Cities and Communities within the 424 Zone
The 424 area code serves several well-known communities, including:
- Beverly Hills
- Santa Monica
- Malibu
- West Hollywood
- Culver City
These communities are known for their diverse populations and thriving economies, ranging from entertainment and tourism to technology and retail.
The Pacific Time Zone: Implications for Communication
Like most of Southern California, the 424 area code operates within the Pacific Time Zone (PT).
This means that during most of the year, the area observes Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), which is UTC-7. During the fall and winter months, the area observes Pacific Standard Time (PST), which is UTC-8.
When contacting businesses or residents in the 424 area code, it’s important to be mindful of the time difference, especially if you’re calling from outside the Pacific Time Zone. Making calls too early or too late in the day could mean you’re reaching someone outside of their business hours or during their personal time.
Use a 424 Area Code to Connect with LA Customers
If you’re trying to reach customers in Los Angeles, getting a phone number with a 424 area code can be a smart move. Here’s why:
Establishing a Strong Local Presence in Los Angeles
Using a 424 area code for your business phone number instantly boosts your credibility with potential customers in the LA area. It tells them you’re local and committed to serving the community. People are more likely to trust and do business with a company that feels like it’s part of the neighborhood.
A local phone number can seriously improve your sales and marketing efforts. When people see a familiar area code, they’re more likely to answer the phone and engage with your message. It can also help you rank higher in local search results, making it easier for LA customers to find you online.
How Dialpad Empowers Your Business with a 424 Number
Platforms like Dialpad can help you get a 424 area code phone number quickly and easily. Dialpad offers a range of unified communication features, including calls, video conferencing, and messaging, all in one place. This makes it simple to connect with your team and your customers, no matter where they are. Plus, Dialpad offers unlimited calling in the US and Canada, so you can stay in touch without worrying about extra charges.
Business solutions using the 424 area code
If you want to create a business presence in the 424 area code but you’re not physically located there, don’t worry. Cloud-based phone systems can give you a 424 number no matter where you are.
Cloud-based solutions
Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, lets you make and receive calls over the internet. These systems offer features like call forwarding, smart call routing, and even voicemail transcriptions.
Scalability and flexibility
Cloud-based solutions are ideal for growing businesses because they’re easily scalable. You can manage your communications from a variety of devices, including your desktop, mobile apps, and web browsers.
Protect yourself from 424 area code fraud and spam calls
It’s a good idea to be on guard if you receive a call from a number you don’t recognize, even if it looks like it’s coming from the 424 area code. Scammers are clever at masking their true location, and they may use tactics like caller ID “spoofing” to trick you into answering.
Here are some tips to help you avoid being taken in by a scam:
- Don’t answer calls from 424 numbers you don’t recognize.
- Block any 424 numbers that seem suspicious.
- Register your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry. It may not stop all unwanted calls, but it can help.
- Report any scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
- Use call screening or filtering features on your phone, if available.
- Never share personal information during an unsolicited call.
- Be extra careful about clicking links or downloading anything from someone you don’t know who’s calling you.
By taking these steps, you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of fraud or a spam call originating from the 424 area code, or any other area code.
To Conclude
Area code 424 serves the western part of Los Angeles County, including the South Bay and West Los Angeles. If you live in this region, you may already have a 424 or 310 number. Area code 424 is an overlay for the original area code 310, meaning the same geographic area uses both.
For businesses targeting the Los Angeles market, a 424 area code can be a great way to establish a local presence. However, it’s important to remember that scammers sometimes use numbers with a 424 area code. So, if you receive a suspicious call from a number you don’t recognize, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.