213 Area Code:

Location, Time Zone, Cities Covered & Scam Risk Guide (2026)

The 213 area code is one of the most iconic and historic telephone area codes in the United States. If you’ve received a call from a 213 number or are researching Los Angeles phone numbers, this guide will explain everything you need to know.

From its location and time zone to scam risk and number verification, here is your complete 213 area code breakdown.

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📍 Where Is the 213 Area Code Located?

The 213 area code location is in Los Angeles, California.

It primarily covers:

• Downtown Los Angeles
• Central LA
• Koreatown
• Fashion District
• Chinatown
• Little Tokyo

This area code is strongly associated with the heart of Los Angeles and is considered prestigious due to its historic status.

If you see a phone number starting with (213), it most likely originates from central Los Angeles.

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🕒 What Time Zone Is Area Code 213?

The 213 area code time zone is:

Pacific Time (PT)

• Standard Time: UTC -8
• Daylight Saving Time: UTC -7

So if you are outside California and receive a call from 213, remember it follows Pacific Time.

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🏙️ Cities Covered by 213 Area Code

Although mainly known for Los Angeles, the 213 area code covers specific urban neighborhoods rather than large suburban regions.

Major coverage includes:

• Downtown Los Angeles
• Westlake
• Boyle Heights
• University Park
• Central Business District

It does NOT cover all of Los Angeles County — other nearby area codes include:

• 310 (West LA, Beverly Hills)
• 818 (San Fernando Valley)
• 323 (Overlay for central LA)
• 424 (Overlay with 310)

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📜 History of the 213 Area Code

The 213 area code was one of the original area codes created in 1947.

Originally, it covered all of Southern California. Over time, due to population growth and increasing phone usage, the area was divided multiple times.

Here’s a quick history timeline:

• 1947 – 213 introduced
• 1951 – Split created 714
• 1984 – 818 created
• 1991 – 310 created
• 1998 – 323 created

Today, 213 shares an overlay with 323, meaning both area codes serve the same geographic region.

Because of its age and rarity, 213 numbers are often seen as more desirable or “premium.”

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📞 Is 213 Area Code Legit or a Scam?

This is one of the most searched questions online:

“Is 213 area code a scam?”

The answer:
213 itself is completely legitimate.

However, scammers can spoof any area code — including 213.

🚨 Why 213 Numbers Are Sometimes Used by Scammers

Scammers often use:

• Local-looking numbers (to increase answer rate)
• Caller ID spoofing
• Robocalls

Because 213 is associated with Los Angeles, people may trust it more.

⚠ Signs of a Scam Call from 213

Be cautious if:

• The caller pressures you for money
• They request banking or OTP information
• They threaten legal action
• It’s an IRS or “government” impersonation
• The call disconnects after one ring (Wangiri scam)

Always verify unknown callers before sharing personal information.

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🔍 How to Verify a 213 Phone Number

If you receive a suspicious call from 213, you can:

1. Use a reverse phone lookup tool
2. Check online scam reporting websites
3. Search the full number on Google
4. Avoid calling back missed one-ring calls
5. Block and report suspicious numbers

Never give:

• Bank details
• Credit card info
• Social Security number
• One-time passwords

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📲 Why Do Businesses Prefer 213 Numbers?

Many businesses in Los Angeles prefer a 213 area code because:

• It signals central LA presence
• It looks established
• It has brand credibility
• It feels local and trusted

Some companies even buy premium 213 numbers for branding.

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📈 Is 213 Area Code Still Available?

Because of demand and age, 213 numbers are limited.

Due to the overlay system with 323, new numbers may be issued under either area code.

If you specifically want a 213 number:

• Contact local telecom providers
• Check VoIP services
• Consider number marketplaces

Premium numbers may cost more.

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🌎 Can You Get a 213 Number Outside Los Angeles?

Yes.

With modern VoIP services, you can obtain a 213 area code number even if you’re outside California.

This is common for:

• Remote businesses
• Virtual offices
• Startups targeting LA market
• Marketing agencies

But remember — misuse for fraud can result in penalties.

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📊 213 Area Code Quick Facts

Feature	Details
Location	Los Angeles, CA
Time Zone	Pacific Time
Introduced	1947
Overlay	323
Scam Risk	Medium to High (due to spoofing)
Type	Geographic Area Code

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🤔 Frequently Asked Questions About 213 Area Code

Is 213 area code toll-free?

No. It is a standard geographic area code.

Can scammers fake 213 numbers?

Yes. Through caller ID spoofing.

Is 213 area code prestigious?

Yes. It is one of the original US area codes.

What does overlay mean?

It means two area codes serve the same region.

Should I answer a 213 call?

If you’re expecting a call from Los Angeles, yes. Otherwise verify first.

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🛡️ How to Protect Yourself From 213 Scam Calls

Here are safety tips:

• Use call-blocking apps
• Register your number on Do Not Call list
• Enable spam protection on your phone
• Never share sensitive information
• Report scam calls to authorities

Technology makes communication easy — but also allows scammers to misuse area codes.

Stay alert.

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🏢 Why 213 Area Code Is Important in Los Angeles Culture

The 213 code has cultural significance.

It is often referenced in:

• Hip-hop music
• LA street culture
• Sports fandom
• Local branding

For many residents, 213 represents downtown Los Angeles identity.

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📌 Final Thoughts: Should You Be Concerned About 213 Calls?

The 213 area code is legitimate and historic, covering central Los Angeles.

However, because scammers can spoof any number, always verify unknown calls.

If you receive repeated suspicious calls:

• Block the number
• Report it
• Avoid engagement

Used correctly, 213 is simply a geographic identifier — not a threat.