The 703 area code is an integral part of Northern Virginia’s telecommunications network, primarily serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Known for its association with the bustling suburbs surrounding the nation’s capital, the 703 area code is synonymous with Northern Virginia’s rapid growth, economic strength, and proximity to key federal government institutions. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the 703 area code, its geographical coverage, its importance for local businesses, and how it continues to serve one of the most dynamic regions in the United States.
What Is the 703 Area Code?
The 703 area code serves Northern Virginia, including cities and communities that are part of the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Originally introduced in 1947 as one of the first area codes established under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), the 703 area code covered the entire state of Virginia. However, as Virginia’s population and the demand for phone numbers grew, the 703 area code became increasingly focused on Northern Virginia.
Today, the 703 area code is widely used for both landlines and mobile phones within the region, playing a crucial role in connecting residents, businesses, and government institutions.
History of the 703 Area Code
The 703 area code was one of the original area codes created under the NANP in 1947. At that time, it covered all of Virginia, as the state’s population was relatively small and could be served with a single area code. However, as the population of Virginia expanded, particularly in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., new area codes were introduced to meet the demand for phone numbers.
The First Major Split: 804 Area Code
In 1973, the 703 area code underwent its first significant change when the 804 area code was introduced. This split assigned the 804 area code to cover the central and southern portions of Virginia, including Richmond, while the 703 area code continued to serve Northern Virginia. This change allowed the 703 area code to focus on the growing population near Washington, D.C.
The Introduction of the 571 Overlay
By the late 1990s, the continued growth of Northern Virginia, driven by its expanding suburban communities and proximity to Washington, D.C., led to a shortage of available phone numbers in the 703 area code. To address this issue, the 571 area code was introduced as an overlay to the 703 area code in 2000. This allowed new phone numbers to be issued under the 571 area code without requiring changes to existing 703 numbers, while introducing 10-digit dialing for all local calls within the region.
Geographical Scope of the 703 Area Code
The 703 area code primarily serves Northern Virginia, covering areas that are part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region. This area is known for its vibrant economy, affluent communities, and close proximity to the federal government.
Key Areas Served by the 703 Area Code:
- Arlington: Located directly across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington is a major urban center known for its government offices, including the Pentagon.
- Alexandria: A historic city just south of Arlington, Alexandria is known for its waterfront area, charming Old Town, and proximity to Washington, D.C.
- Fairfax: Located west of Arlington, Fairfax is a prominent suburb that serves as a residential and commercial hub for the Northern Virginia area.
- Falls Church: A smaller city in Northern Virginia, Falls Church is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and historic sites.
- McLean: Known for its affluent neighborhoods and close proximity to Washington, D.C., McLean is home to many federal government employees, diplomats, and high-profile executives.
Table: Breakdown of Areas Covered by the 703 Area Code
| Area in Northern Virginia | Primary Area Code | Overlay Area Code |
| Arlington | 703 | 571 |
| Alexandria | 703 | 571 |
| Fairfax | 703 | 571 |
| Falls Church | 703 | 571 |
| McLean | 703 | 571 |
The 703 and 571 area codes together serve a significant portion of Northern Virginia, providing essential telecommunications services to both residential and business areas within the Washington, D.C. metro region.
Also Read: 305 Area Code
How to Dial the 703 Area Code
Dialing a number with the 703 area code follows the standard North American dialing procedures. Since the 703 area code is overlaid with the 571 area code, 10-digit dialing is required for all local calls within the area.
Dialing from the US
- Local Calls: To dial a local number with the 703 area code from within Northern Virginia, dial the full 10-digit number, including the 703 area code, followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., 703-123-4567).
- Long-Distance Calls: If you are calling a number with the 703 area code from outside Northern Virginia but within the U.S., dial 1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 703 and the 7-digit local number (e.g., 1-703-123-4567).
Dialing from Abroad
When dialing a number with the 703 area code from outside the U.S., you will need to include the international dialing code for the U.S., which is +1, followed by the 703 area code and the local number. The format is as follows:
- Dial +1 703 followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., +1 703 123 4567).
This ensures that your call is directed to the correct recipient in Northern Virginia.
Importance of the 703 Area Code for Businesses
The 703 area code is especially valuable for businesses operating in Northern Virginia. As a major economic hub and part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Northern Virginia is home to a wide range of industries, including technology, defense, government contracting, and finance. Having a phone number with the 703 area code can help businesses establish credibility and build connections with local clients, customers, and government agencies.
Benefits for Businesses Using the 703 Area Code:
- Local Presence: A phone number with the 703 area code signals that your business is based in Northern Virginia, helping to build trust with local customers and clients.
- Connection to Major Industries: Northern Virginia is known for its strong technology and government contracting sectors, making it an attractive location for businesses looking to connect with these industries.
- Access to a High-Growth Market: The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is one of the most economically prosperous and fastest-growing regions in the U.S., offering numerous opportunities for business expansion.
Even businesses located outside of Virginia can acquire a 703 number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in Northern Virginia and connect with customers and clients in this key market.
The Future of the 703 Area Code
As Northern Virginia continues to grow and develop, the 703 area code will remain a significant part of the region’s telecommunications infrastructure. The introduction of the 571 overlay has ensured that there are enough phone numbers available to meet the needs of the area’s expanding population and business community. The 703 area code is expected to remain in use for years to come, representing both the history and the dynamic future of Northern Virginia.
FAQs About the 703 Area Code
What areas are covered by the 703 area code?
The 703 area code covers Northern Virginia, including cities and communities such as Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, and McLean.
Is the 703 area code still available for new phone numbers?
Yes, the 703 area code is still in use, but new phone numbers in the area are often assigned the 571 overlay area code due to high demand for 703 numbers.
How do I call a number with the 703 area code from outside the U.S.?
To call a number with the 703 area code from abroad, dial +1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 703 and the 7-digit local number.
Can businesses outside of Virginia get a 703 area code number?
Yes, businesses can acquire a 703 area code number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in Northern Virginia.
Why was the 571 area code introduced?
The 571 area code was introduced in 2000 as an overlay to the 703 area code to accommodate the growing demand for phone numbers in Northern Virginia.
The 703 area code is a vital part of Northern Virginia’s identity, serving as the primary area code for cities and communities close to Washington, D.C. Since its establishment in 1947, the 703 area code has supported the growth and development of one of the most economically and politically significant regions in the United States. As Northern Virginia continues to expand, the 703 area code will remain an important part of its telecommunications network, helping businesses and residents stay connected in this dynamic region.