Area code 501, Telephone prefix in central Arkansas, US
Area code 501 is a telephone prefix serving central Arkansas, covering Little Rock and surrounding communities across multiple counties. It connects both urban and rural areas throughout the region.
Area code 501 started operations on January 1, 1947, as one of the original North American area codes and served as Arkansas's sole prefix until 1995. Its creation reflected the early structure of the continental telephone network.
The numbering plan integrates major educational institutions, government facilities, and communication networks throughout central Arkansas, supporting regional development and connectivity.
Residents must use ten-digit dialing since October 2021 when 988 became designated as a national mental health helpline. This change applies to all calls within the service area, whether local or long-distance.
Area code 501 connects diverse communities from urban Little Rock to rural regions, serving multiple telecommunications providers across eleven counties.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
