Area codes in Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina uses 2 area codes — 803 and 839. The main Columbia area code is 803.
Area codes serving Columbia
Phone numbers in Columbia are written as ten digits — for example (803) 555-0190 — and fall in the Eastern Time zone.
How Columbia came to have 2 area codes
The original Columbia area code is 803, in service since 1947. As the area ran low on available numbers, an overlay code was added over the same region for new phone lines: 839 (2020). Existing numbers kept their original code — an overlay never forces anyone to change their number — which is why Columbia now uses all 2 codes and every local call is dialed with ten digits.
All South Carolina area codes · Is a Columbia call a scam?
Nearby cities
- Aiken area codes
- Sumter area codes
- Rock Hill area codes
- Augusta area codes
- Spartanburg area codes
- Monroe area codes
- Charlotte area codes
- Summerville area codes
More cities in South Carolina
Frequently asked questions
What is the area code for Columbia?
The main area code for Columbia, South Carolina is 803. Columbia is now served by 2 area codes in total: 803, 839.
How many area codes does Columbia have?
Columbia has 2 area codes: 803, 839.
Why does Columbia have more than one area code?
As Columbia used up the numbers available in its original area code (803, in service since 1947), additional "overlay" codes were added over the same area so new phone numbers could keep being assigned.
How do you dial a Columbia number?
Dial all 10 digits — the area code (803 or 839) followed by the 7-digit local number. From abroad, dial +1, then the area code and number.
Sourced from the official NANPA (North American Numbering Plan Administrator) numbering database, current as of August 2, 2026. Refreshed monthly.