218 Area Code
The 218 area code is an original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) code, created in 1947. It serves the northern portion of Minnesota, covering cities like Duluth, Bemidji, Brainerd, and Moorhead. Known for its lakes, forests, and recreational areas, the 218 region is closely tied to Minnesota�s natural heritage and outdoor lifestyle. Unlike many other U.S. codes, 218 does not currently have an overlay and remains unique to northern Minnesota.
Understanding the 218 Area Code
Area code 218 covers the expansive northern half of Minnesota, stretching from Lake Superior�s North Shore across the Iron Range and into the Red River Valley near the North Dakota border. Its format follows (218) NXX-XXXX. Residents and businesses in the region value 218 numbers as a symbol of authentic northern Minnesota identity.
218 Area Code Map and Geographic Location
The 218 area code map encompasses northern Minnesota, reaching from Duluth on Lake Superior westward to Moorhead along the North Dakota border. It includes forests, lakes, mining towns, and rural communities, forming one of the largest geographic area code regions in the state.
All Major Cities and Regions in the 218 Area Code
The 218 area code serves a wide range of communities, from larger urban centers to small towns and rural regions. Key cities and regions include:
- Duluth - Port city on Lake Superior, major shipping and tourism hub
- Moorhead - Border city across from Fargo, ND
- Brainerd - Gateway to the �Land of 10,000 Lakes� region
- Bemidji - Known as the birthplace of Paul Bunyan, college town
- Virginia, Hibbing, Iron Range - Historic mining towns
- International Falls - Border town near Canada
- Grand Rapids - Community in Itasca County
- Fergus Falls - West-central Minnesota hub
ZIP Codes within the 218 Telephone Zone (Examples)
Representative ZIP codes in the 218 area code include:
- 55802 - Duluth (Downtown)
- 55805 - Duluth (East Hillside)
- 56560 - Moorhead
- 56401 - Brainerd
- 56601 - Bemidji
- 55792 - Virginia
- 55746 - Hibbing
- 56649 - International Falls
- 56425 - Baxter
- 56537 - Fergus Falls
- 55744 - Grand Rapids
Time Zone
The 218 area code lies within the Central Time Zone (CT). It observes Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6) in the winter and Central Daylight Time (CDT, UTC-5) during daylight saving time.
Dialing, Phone & Service Details
- Local dialing: 10-digit dialing is required.
- Long-distance (within NANP): Dial
1 + area code + number. - International calls: Dial your exit code +
1(U.S. country code) +218+ 7-digit number (e.g.,+1 218 NXX XXXX). - Services: Used across landlines, mobile phones, VoIP, and business systems.
Why the 218 Area Code Matters
The 218 area code represents the cultural and natural identity of northern Minnesota. From Lake Superior to the Iron Range, 218 is closely tied to the region�s history, industry, and lifestyle. It is often used in local branding, sports, and tourism to symbolize pride in northern Minnesota roots.
What area code is 218? / Where's area code 218?
What area code is 218? � It is the telephone code serving northern Minnesota, including Duluth, Moorhead, Bemidji, Brainerd, and the Iron Range.
Where's area code 218? � It covers northern Minnesota, extending from the North Shore of Lake Superior to the Red River Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 218 Area Code
What is the 218 area code?
It is a historic 1947 NANP area code serving northern Minnesota.
Where is area code 218 located?
It covers Duluth, Moorhead, Brainerd, Bemidji, International Falls, the Iron Range, and surrounding areas.
What time zone is 218 in?
Central Time (CST/CDT).
Is 218 used for cell phones or landlines?
Both. The 218 code applies to landlines, mobile phones, VoIP, and business numbers.
How do I call a 218 number from outside the U.S.?
Dial your international exit code, then +1 218 followed by the 7-digit number (e.g., +1 218 555 0199).
Does 218 have overlays?
No � 218 remains a standalone area code for northern Minnesota.
