Area Code 504: Coverage, Locations, and Services

What Area Code Is 504?

Area code 504 is the telephone area code for New Orleans and southeastern Louisiana's metropolitan region, serving 1,156,627 residents across Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and Plaquemines parishes. Established in 1947 as one of the 86 original North American area codes (NANPA), 504 has evolved from covering all of Louisiana to its current focused metropolitan footprint. This guide shows you exactly where 504 operates, how to dial correctly, and what services you can access—essential for residents, businesses establishing a local presence, newcomers relocating to the region, and anyone needing to contact southeastern Louisiana.

Quick Facts (Verified 2024-2025):

• Population Served: 1,156,627
• Coverage: 4 parishes (Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Plaquemines)
• Overlay Status: No overlay – 504 remains the sole area code for this region
• Dialing Format: Mandatory 10-digit dialing since October 24, 2021
• Status: Not in jeopardy (sufficient numbers available)
• Time Zone: Central Time (UTC-6:00 standard, UTC-5:00 daylight saving)

504 Area Code Location: Coverage Map and Cities

Area code 504 covers four parishes in southeastern Louisiana:

Orleans Parish: New Orleans (population 362,701 as of 2024) serves as the cultural and economic hub. The parish covers 169.5 square miles of land area (U.S. Census Bureau). Major areas include the French Quarter, Garden District, Algiers, and Central Business District.

Jefferson Parish: The most populous parish with 427,253 residents (2024). This parish borders Orleans Parish and contains both urban and suburban communities including Metairie (the largest unincorporated community), Kenner, Harvey, Gretna, Marrero, Westwego, and Terrytown.

St. Bernard Parish: Downriver from New Orleans with 44,645 residents (2024), this parish includes Chalmette and Arabi. The parish maintains strong ties to the fishing and energy industries.

Plaquemines Parish: Stretching along the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico with 22,289 residents (2024), this parish drives maritime commerce and includes Belle Chasse, Port Sulphur, Buras, Boothville, and Pointe à la Hache.

Total Coverage Area: Approximately 639 square miles (Orleans Parish alone is 169.5 square miles land area; the broader metropolitan region's parishes collectively encompass additional territory).

The boundaries of 504 have evolved significantly through multiple splits as population growth demanded new area codes:

• 1947: 504 originally covered all of Louisiana as one of the 86 original NANP area codes
• 1957: Area code 318 split off to serve most of Louisiana west of the Mississippi River
• 1998: Area code 225 split off to serve the western portion including Baton Rouge
• 2001: Area code 985 split off to serve much of southeastern Louisiana including the Northshore, downriver suburbs, and coastal areas

Hurricane Katrina's Impact (2005 – 2008): Hurricane Katrina destroyed local switching facilities in lower Plaquemines Parish in August 2005. The FCC authorized reintegration of several communities originally assigned to 985 back into 504. These communities—on both sides of the Mississippi River in lower Plaquemines Parish, including Pointe à la Hache (east bank) and Port Sulphur, Buras, and Boothville (west bank)—began receiving dial tone from New Orleans-based switching facilities:

• Permissive Dialing Period: July 29, 2007 – residents could use either 504 or 985
• Mandatory 504 Use: May 1, 2008 – all affected areas returned exclusively to 504

Telecommunications providers coordinated with the FCC and Louisiana Public Service Commission to notify residents through direct mail, bill inserts, recorded announcements, and local media campaigns. The transition required updating emergency services databases, business listings, and personal contact information.

This reintegration demonstrates how area code boundaries respond to real-world telecommunications infrastructure changes and disaster recovery needs.

Key Geographic Data

• State: Louisiana
• Country: United States
• Time Zone: Central Time (CT) – UTC-6:00 during standard time (CST), UTC-5:00 during daylight saving time (CDT)
• Approximate Center: 29.94296° N, -89.96537° W (represents general location, not full extent)
• Coordinates: 29°42′N 89°48′W
• Major Cities Served: New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Chalmette, Gretna, Harvey, Marrero, Westwego, Terrytown, Algiers, Arabi, Belle Chasse, River Ridge, Estelle, and Bridge City
• Bordering Area Code: 985 (covers surrounding southeastern Louisiana including the Northshore, Houma, Thibodaux, Hammond, Slidell, Mandeville, and Covington)

How to Dial 504 Phone Numbers: Complete Dialing Guide

Area code 504 supports all modern telecommunications services with reliable infrastructure serving the greater New Orleans metropolitan area. Major carriers have invested in network redundancy and backup systems following Hurricane Katrina to ensure service continuity. Follow these dialing procedures for correct call routing:

Dialing Rules for 504 Area Code Numbers

Local Calls (within 504):

• Dial all 10 digits: area code + 7-digit number
• Example: 504-555-1234
• Note: This became mandatory on October 24, 2021
• If you dial only 7 digits: Your call will not complete. You will hear a recorded announcement instructing you to hang up and redial using the 10-digit format.

Long-Distance Calls (within North America):

• Dial: 1 + area code + 7-digit number
• Example: 1-713-555-1234

International Calls:

• Dial: 011 + country code + local number
• Example: 011-44-20-7946-0958 (London, UK)

Operator-Assisted Calls:

• Dial: 0 + area code + 7-digit number

The FCC mandated 10-digit dialing for area code 504 in October 2021 to accommodate the nationwide 988 designation for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (FCC Order, July 2020). Without 10-digit dialing, local numbers with the 988 exchange (like 504-988-XXXX) would conflict with the new 3-digit 988 crisis line. The 10-digit requirement ensures correct call routing—988 reaches crisis support, while 504-988-XXXX reaches local subscribers.

Get a 504 Phone Number: Service Providers and Options

The 504 region offers comprehensive telecommunications options from multiple providers:

Major Service Providers:

• AT&T: Fiber internet (up to 5 Gbps in select areas), wireless, traditional landline, and business services
• Verizon Wireless: Nationwide wireless coverage with 5G availability in metro areas
• T-Mobile: Wireless services including 5G home internet in select locations
• Cox Communications: Cable internet, phone service, and bundled packages throughout the metro area
• Spectrum (Charter): Cable-based services in select coverage zones
• VoIP Providers: Numerous cloud-based phone service providers (Ooma, Vonage, RingCentral, etc.)

Service Types:

• Hosted PBX: Cloud-based phone systems with advanced features including auto-attendants, call routing, voicemail-to-email, mobile apps, and CRM integrations. Ideal for businesses seeking scalability without on-premise equipment.
• VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Internet-based phone service offering cost savings, data integration, and advanced features. Requires reliable broadband connection.
• Traditional Landlines: Conventional copper-wire phone service from AT&T and Cox. Most reliable during power outages when paired with corded phones.
• Wireless Services: All major carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and regional carriers) operate throughout the 504 region with 4G LTE and expanding 5G coverage.

Hurricane Preparedness Considerations: Given the region's hurricane vulnerability, telecommunications providers maintain backup power systems, redundant network paths, and disaster recovery protocols. During severe weather:

• Traditional copper landlines often remain operational during power outages
• Wireless networks may experience congestion or tower damage
• VoIP and hosted PBX services require internet and power to function
• Consider backup communication methods (battery backups, mobile hotspots, satellite phones for critical business operations)

Service Quality: The metropolitan New Orleans area generally offers excellent coverage from all major carriers. Some coverage gaps may exist in lower Plaquemines Parish and areas with challenging terrain or sparse infrastructure.

Regulatory Information: The Role of the FCC and NANPA

The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) regulates area code 504 under Federal Communications Commission (FCC) oversight. Understanding these regulatory bodies helps you navigate number assignment, porting, and service quality issues.

Why This Matters:

• Number Assignment: NANPA manages available phone numbers and coordinates with local carriers.
• Consumer Protection: The FCC enforces rules preventing slamming (unauthorized carrier changes), cramming (unauthorized charges), and ensures number portability.
• Service Quality: Regulatory oversight ensures carriers meet minimum service standards and provide emergency services access.

Access Resources:

• NANPA: https://www.nanpa.com – check area code status, splits, overlays, and numbering resources.
• FCC: https://www.fcc.gov – file complaints, verify regulations, and access consumer guides.

How to Report Issues or File Complaints:

• Service Quality Issues: Contact the Louisiana Public Service Commission at 1-800-256-2397 or www.lpsc.louisiana.gov.
• Billing Disputes or Slamming/Cramming: File an FCC complaint at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov or call 1-888-225-5322.
• Check Number Availability: Contact your telecommunications provider or visit NANPA for area code exhaust projections.

Number Portability Rights: Under FCC regulations, you have the right to keep your 504 phone number when switching carriers (local number portability or LNP). Carriers must process valid port requests within one business day for simple ports (wireless-to-wireless, wireline-to-wireline). Complex ports may take longer. Carriers cannot refuse valid port requests or charge excessive fees beyond reasonable administrative costs.

The FCC's mandate for 10-digit dialing demonstrates their proactive approach to preventing conflicts and ensuring public safety, particularly with the implementation of 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cities and parishes does area code 504 cover?

Area code 504 covers Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and Plaquemines Parishes in southeastern Louisiana. Major cities include New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Chalmette, Gretna, Harvey, Marrero, Westwego, Algiers, and Arabi.

How do I dial a phone number with area code 504?

Dial all 10 digits (area code + 7-digit number) for all calls within area code 504. For example, dial 504-555-1234 for local calls. This 10-digit dialing became mandatory on October 24, 2021.

Is area code 504 only for New Orleans?

No. While New Orleans is the largest city in area code 504, the area code serves four parishes totaling 1,156,627 residents across southeastern Louisiana's metropolitan region.

What telecommunication services are available in area code 504?

Area code 504 offers all modern telecommunications services: traditional landlines from AT&T and Cox, wireless service from all major carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile), VoIP from providers like Ooma and Vonage, and hosted PBX cloud-based phone systems from RingCentral and similar providers. When choosing between services, consider your reliability needs (landlines most reliable during outages), mobility requirements (wireless/mobile), cost savings (VoIP often cheaper for high-volume calling), and business features (hosted PBX for advanced call management). Contact providers directly for service availability at your specific address and current pricing.

Why did area code 504 boundaries change after Hurricane Katrina?

Hurricane Katrina destroyed local switching facilities in lower Plaquemines Parish in August 2005. The FCC authorized reintegration of areas originally assigned to 985 back into 504 because these communities began receiving dial tone from New Orleans-based switching facilities. Permissive dialing of both 504 and 985 started July 29, 2007, with mandatory 504 use beginning May 1, 2008.

Is area code 504 getting an overlay area code?

No. As of 2024-2025, area code 504 has no overlay and remains the sole area code for this region. The area code is not in jeopardy status, indicating sufficient numbers remain available.

When did 10-digit dialing become mandatory for area code 504?

The FCC mandated 10-digit dialing for area code 504 on October 24, 2021, to accommodate the nationwide 988 designation for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

What is the population served by area code 504?

Area code 504 serves 1,156,627 residents (2024) across four parishes in southeastern Louisiana's core metropolitan region.

Can I still get a 504 area code phone number?

Yes. Area code 504 is not in jeopardy status, meaning sufficient phone numbers remain available for assignment. Contact your telecommunications provider (AT&T, Cox, Verizon, T-Mobile, or VoIP providers) to request a 504 number. Most carriers allow you to select from available numbers. Some services like NumberBarn specialize in finding specific or vanity numbers.

What area codes border area code 504?

Area code 985 borders area code 504, covering surrounding regions of southeastern Louisiana including the Northshore, Houma, Thibodaux, and Hammond areas.

How do I call area code 504 from outside the United States?

Dial your country's international access code (often 00 or 011), then 1 (the US country code), then the full 10-digit number. Example from the UK: 00-1-504-555-1234.

Who regulates area code 504 assignments?

The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) regulates area code 504 under Federal Communications Commission (FCC) oversight, ensuring fair numbering resource allocation.

How do I port my existing number to area code 504?

If you're moving to the 504 area and want to keep your out-of-area number, check with your carrier about eligibility. If you're switching carriers within 504, you have the right to port your number under FCC local number portability rules. Contact your new provider to initiate a port request—they handle coordination with your old provider. You'll need your current account number, PIN/password, and billing information. Don't cancel your old service before the port completes or you may lose your number.

Can I get a vanity or custom 504 number?

Yes. Many providers allow you to search available numbers and select memorable patterns. Services like NumberBarn, RingBoost, and Vanity Tel specialize in finding and selling custom numbers. Business users often seek numbers that spell company names (e.g., 504-FLOWERS) or feature repeating digits for memorability.

What's the difference between business and residential 504 numbers?

Phone numbers themselves are not classified as "business" or "residential"—the distinction lies in the service plan and features. Business lines typically include multiple lines, auto-attendants, call queuing, and enhanced support. Business listings in directories are also managed differently. Residential plans are usually less expensive but with fewer features. When ordering service, specify your use case so providers can recommend appropriate plans.

Conclusion: Staying Connected in Southeastern Louisiana

Area code 504 connects 1,156,627 residents and businesses across southeastern Louisiana's metropolitan core. You now understand its four-parish coverage area (Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and Plaquemines), the mandatory 10-digit dialing procedures effective October 24, 2021, and the full range of available telecommunications services from traditional landlines to modern VoIP and hosted PBX systems.

Next Steps Based on Your Needs:

• Moving to the Area: Contact major providers (AT&T, Cox, Verizon) for service availability at your new address. Request a 504 number to establish a local presence.
• Business Expansion: Consider hosted PBX or VoIP solutions for scalability. A local 504 number builds trust with regional customers.
• Existing Residents: Ensure your contact lists use 10-digit format. Verify your service provider offers adequate hurricane preparedness and backup systems.
• Number Porting: Start the process with your new provider at least 5 – 7 business days before you need service to avoid gaps.

Access the latest regulatory information and numbering updates at NANPA and the FCC. For Louisiana-specific telecommunications issues, contact the Louisiana Public Service Commission. This guide equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate southeastern Louisiana's telecommunications landscape effectively.