The 843 area code is an essential part of the telecommunications network in South Carolina, particularly known for serving the state’s coastal areas, including popular destinations like Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head Island. This area code has become symbolic of South Carolina’s Lowcountry culture, tourism, and economic vitality. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the 843 area code, its geographical coverage, its significance for businesses, and its role in the growing telecommunications needs of the Palmetto State.
What Is the 843 Area Code?
The 843 area code serves South Carolina’s coastal region, covering the Lowcountry and Grand Strand areas, which include both urban and resort destinations. Established in 1998, the 843 area code was introduced to meet the high demand for phone numbers as South Carolina’s population grew and tourism in coastal areas surged. Before this, the entire state was served by only two area codes: 803 and 864. The introduction of 843 allowed for more efficient management of phone numbers and greater support for economic development in the region.
Today, the 843 area code is associated with both residential and business numbers, connecting millions of residents and visitors across South Carolina’s coast.
History of the 843 Area Code
The 843 area code was established on March 22, 1998, as a split from the 803 area code, which had previously covered the majority of South Carolina. The introduction of the 843 area code was necessary to accommodate South Carolina’s growing population and the increasing demand for telecommunications services, particularly in popular tourist destinations and developing urban areas.
Growth and the Introduction of the 854 Overlay
By the mid-2010s, continued population growth in South Carolina’s coastal areas led to a shortage of available phone numbers under the 843 area code. To address this, the 854 area code was introduced in 2015 as an overlay to the 843 area code. This allowed new phone numbers to be issued under the 854 area code without requiring changes to existing 843 numbers. The overlay system also introduced 10-digit dialing for all local calls within the 843/854 region, ensuring a seamless expansion of the area’s telecommunications network.
Geographical Scope of the 843 Area Code
The 843 area code covers a wide region in South Carolina, focusing on the state’s coastal and Lowcountry areas. Known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and vibrant tourism industry, this area includes some of the most popular destinations in the southeastern United States.
Key Areas Served by the 843 Area Code:
- Charleston: Known as the cultural and economic heart of South Carolina’s coast, Charleston is a historic city with a thriving tourism industry, vibrant arts scene, and diverse economy.
- Myrtle Beach: A popular vacation destination along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is famous for its beaches, golf courses, entertainment venues, and family-friendly attractions.
- Hilton Head Island: Known for its luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and natural beauty, Hilton Head Island attracts both tourists and residents seeking a high-quality lifestyle.
- Florence: Located inland from the coast, Florence is a major transportation and healthcare hub, offering easy access to both the coast and central South Carolina.
- Georgetown: A historic town with a strong maritime heritage, Georgetown serves as a gateway to the Lowcountry and is known for its fishing industry and waterfront charm.
Table: Breakdown of Areas Covered by the 843 Area Code
| Area in South Carolina | Primary Area Code | Overlay Area Code |
| Charleston | 843 | 854 |
| Myrtle Beach | 843 | 854 |
| Hilton Head Island | 843 | 854 |
| Florence | 843 | 854 |
| Georgetown | 843 | 854 |
The 843 and 854 area codes together cover a significant portion of South Carolina’s coastal and Lowcountry areas, serving both permanent residents and the state’s tourism-driven economy.
Also Read: 617 Area Code
How to Dial the 843 Area Code
Dialing a number with the 843 area code follows the standard North American dialing procedures. Since the 843 area code is overlaid with the 854 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 843 area code from within the region, dial the full 10-digit number, including the 843 area code, followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., 843-123-4567).
- Long-Distance Calls: If you are calling a number with the 843 area code from outside the South Carolina coast but within the U.S., dial 1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 843 and the 7-digit local number (e.g., 1-843-123-4567).
Dialing from Abroad
When dialing a number with the 843 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 843 area code and the local number. The format is as follows:
- Dial +1 843 followed by the 7-digit local number (e.g., +1 843 123 4567).
This ensures that your call is directed to the correct recipient in South Carolina’s coastal and Lowcountry areas.
Importance of the 843 Area Code for Businesses
The 843 area code is particularly valuable for businesses operating in South Carolina’s coastal region. As one of the most popular tourist destinations on the East Coast, South Carolina’s coastal areas are home to industries such as hospitality, real estate, healthcare, and retail. Having a phone number with the 843 area code can help businesses establish credibility and connect with local customers and tourists.
Benefits for Businesses Using the 843 Area Code:
- Local Presence: A phone number with the 843 area code signals that your business is based in South Carolina’s coastal region, building trust with both local customers and visitors.
- Connection to a Tourism-Driven Economy: The coastal areas of South Carolina attract millions of visitors each year, making it an attractive market for businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality.
- Association with South Carolina’s Lowcountry Lifestyle: The 843 area code is associated with the relaxed, scenic lifestyle of the Lowcountry. Businesses with a 843 phone number can benefit from the appeal of this lifestyle to residents and tourists alike.
Even businesses located outside of South Carolina can acquire a 843 number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in the state and connect with customers and clients in this key market.
The Future of the 843 Area Code
As South Carolina’s coastal areas continue to grow, the 843 area code will remain an integral part of the region’s telecommunications infrastructure. The 854 overlay has helped ensure that there are enough phone numbers available to meet the needs of the expanding population and tourism industry. While new area codes may eventually be introduced, the 843 area code is expected to remain in use for years to come.
The 843 area code has become synonymous with South Carolina’s Lowcountry, representing the region’s unique culture, natural beauty, and economic potential.
FAQs About the 843 Area Code
What areas are covered by the 843 area code?
The 843 area code covers South Carolina’s coastal and Lowcountry areas, including Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Florence, and Georgetown.
Is the 843 area code still available for new phone numbers?
Yes, the 843 area code is still in use, but new phone numbers in the area may be assigned the 854 overlay area code due to high demand for 843 numbers.
How do I call a number with the 843 area code from outside the U.S.?
To call a number with the 843 area code from abroad, dial +1 (the U.S. country code), followed by 843 and the 7-digit local number.
Can businesses outside of South Carolina get a 843 area code number?
Yes, businesses can acquire a 843 area code number through VoIP services, allowing them to establish a virtual presence in South Carolina.
Why was the 854 area code introduced?
The 854 area code was introduced in 2015 as an overlay to the 843 area code to accommodate the growing demand for phone numbers in South Carolina’s coastal region.
The 843 area code is a vital part of South Carolina’s telecommunications network, serving cities like Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head Island. Since its introduction in 1998, the 843 area code has supported the growth and development of one of the state’s most popular and economically important regions. As South Carolina’s coastal area continues to thrive, the 843 area code will remain an essential part of its telecommunications network, helping businesses and residents stay connected in this vibrant part of the Palmetto State.