Get 218 Area Code Phone Numbers and Answering Services
October 14, 2025

Get a 218 Area Code Business Phone & Answering Service

The 218 area code is located in the northern part of Minnesota, covering a large and geographically diverse region. It serves major cities such as Duluth, Moorhead, and Bemidji, as well as many smaller communities. 

The 218 area code operates in the Central Time Zone and is a key part of the state's telecommunications infrastructure. It is a strategic tool for businesses looking to build trust and credibility within the local community.

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What is 218 Area Code?

The 218 area code is one of the original North American area codes, established in 1947. It was created to serve the northern and western parts of Minnesota. Due to its large geographical size and low population density, it has not been overlaid with a new area code, unlike many other regions. It is a vital numbering plan area for the northern half of the state. 

  • State: Minnesota 
  • Major Cities: Duluth, Moorhead, Hibbing, Bemidji, and Brainerd 
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST) / Central Daylight Time (CDT) 
  • Established: 1947 
  • Overlay Area Codes: None 
  • Region Population: Approximately 909,054 
  • Primary Uses: Business, Residential

Regions Covered by 218 Area Code

The 218 area code covers roughly the northern half of Minnesota, spanning from the North Dakota border to Lake Superior and northward to the Canadian border. Here is a list of 32 counties and a wide range of cities under this area code:

St. Louis County
  • Duluth
  • Virginia
  • Ely
  • Proctor
  • Eveleth
  • Gilbert
  • Hibbing
  • Hermantown
  • Chisholm
  • Mountain Iron
  • Hoyt Lakes
Clay County
  • Moorhead
  • Hawley
  • Dilworth
  • Barnesville
Crow Wing County
  • Brainerd
  • Crosby
  • Crosslake
  • Baxter
  • Pequot Lakes
  • Nisswa
Itasca County
  • Grand Rapids
  • Coleraine
  • Bovey
  • Cohasset
  • Deer River
Becker County
  • Detroit Lakes
  • Lake Park
  • Frazee
  • Audubon
Beltrami County
  • Bemidji
  • Blackduck
  • Cass Lake
  • Red Lake
Otter Tail County
  • Fergus Falls
  • Pelican Rapids
  • Perham
  • New York Mills
Polk County
  • East Grand Forks
  • Fosston
  • Crookston
  • Fertile
Carlton County
  • Cloquet
  • Scanlon
  • Moose Lake
  • Carlton
Cass County
  • Walker
  • Backus
  • Pine River
  • Longville
Aitkin County
  • Aitkin
  • Palisade
  • McGregor
  • Tamarack
Pennington County
  • Thief River Falls
  • St. Hilaire
  • Goodridge
Wadena County
  • Wadena
  • Menahga
  • Sebeka
Koochiching County
  • International Falls
  • Ranier
  • Littlefork
Roseau County
  • Roseau
  • Badger
  • Warroad

Population & Demographics of 218 Area Code

The 218 area code serves a large geographic area with a diversified economy. While the region is less densely populated than the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, it includes major population centers like Duluth and Moorhead. 

The population is predominantly White, with a significant presence of Native American communities, particularly within and near reservations. The region has a unique demographic blend of urban and rural residents, contributing to a varied consumer market.

218 Area Code Time Zone

The 218 area code is located in the Central Time Zone (CT). This is an important consideration for businesses, as it aligns with the operational hours of other major cities in the central United States. Businesses should be mindful of the time difference when communicating with customers and partners in other time zones.

Business Importance of 218 Area Code

The 218 area code adds local trust and credibility, making it valuable for businesses in Minnesota. Here’s how a business number with the 218 area code is important for your business:

Why Local Numbers Build Trust

When customers see a local 218 area code number, they immediately recognize it as part of their community. This familiarity creates trust and reduces hesitation to answer calls. Research shows that consumers are more likely to pick up calls from numbers with local area codes compared to unfamiliar or out-of-state numbers.

For small businesses, using a local area code 218 number shows commitment to serving the Virginia community. For larger enterprises, it signals accessibility and helps build stronger relationships with regional customers.

Enterprise Businesses That Benefit From a Local 218 Number

Some well-known enterprises that would benefit from a local 218 number include:

Healthcare & Hospitals 

Healthcare systems, clinics, and hospitals in northern Minnesota rely on HIPAA-compliant answering services for scheduling, emergencies, and after-hours support. A local number builds trust with patients.

  • Essentia Health: A major healthcare provider with numerous facilities across the 218 area code, including its main campus in Duluth.
  • St. Luke's Duluth: A well-known hospital system serving the Duluth area.

Education 

Colleges, universities, and school districts in the region manage high call volumes from students, parents, and faculty. An answering service ensures inquiries are handled promptly and professionally.

  • University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD): A large public university in the region that needs to manage calls from a vast network of students and faculty.
  • Concordia College: A private liberal arts college in Moorhead that serves a local and regional student population.

Logistics & Transportation 

With major ports on Lake Superior and a vast network of roads and rail, the logistics sector in the 218 area code is crucial for the region's economy.

  • BNSF Railway: A major freight railroad with significant operations in the region.
  • FedEx Ground: Regional offices in major cities of Duluth and Moorhead.
  • UPS: Multiple distribution centers in cities like Duluth and Moorhead, requiring local numbers for last-mile delivery.

Finance and Banking

Banks and credit unions in the 218 area code rely on consistent customer communication for loan inquiries, account support, and fraud alerts. AI answering services help reduce wait times, route calls effectively, and ensure after-hours coverage.

  • U.S. Bank Branch: Located in major cities such as Duluth and Brainerd.
  • Bell Bank, Duluth Downtown: Offices in Duluth, Minnesota. 
  • Ultima Bank Minnesota: Based in Fosston, serving the northern region of Minnesota. 

Information Technology

Tech firms and managed service providers in the 218 area support both local businesses and enterprise clients. AI answering systems help provide round-the-clock IT support, client onboarding, and ticket escalation.

  • ByteSpeed LLC: A computer hardware company in Moorhead, Minnesota.
  • Saturn Systems Software Engineering: A computer consultant in Duluth, Minnesota

Insurance

The insurance sector in Minnesota requires constant customer support for claims, policy updates, and emergency response. AI answering services streamline client interactions and reduce wait times.

  • State Farm: A leading insurance company located in Bemidji with multiple agent offices in Wadena.
  • Ebner Insurance: A well-known insurance company in Wadena, serving the community in northern Minnesota. 
  • Lakes Central Insurance: Insurance agency in Crosslake, Minnesota.
  • Ostby & Associates, Inc American Family Insurance: Insurance agency in Moorhead, Minnesota

How to Get a 218 Area Code Number?

Setting up your 218 area code number with Goodcall is quick and straightforward. Here’s how it works:

  1. Sign Up: Create your account with Goodcall using basic business details.
  2. Select Your Plan: Choose the pricing plan that best matches your company’s needs.
  3. Complete KYC: Verify your identity and business information for compliance.
  4. Pick a Number: Browse available 218 numbers and select the one you want.
  5. Customize Agent: Set up your AI-powered answering agent with greetings, call routing, and voicemail preferences.
  6. Go Live: Activate your number and start receiving calls immediately.

Benefits of Using Goodcall for the 218 Area Code

Choosing Goodcall means more than just getting a local number; it means equipping your business with tools to handle calls efficiently.

  • 24/7 Availability: Ensure no customer call is missed.
  • AI Answering Services: Professional, automated responses for smoother communication.
  • Cost-Effective: Flexible pricing designed for small to enterprise-level businesses.
  • Scalable Solutions: Upgrade features as your business grows.
  • Local Credibility: Build customer trust with a recognizable area code.

With these advantages, Goodcall makes it easier for you to manage calls and focus on growing your business.

Pricing Plans for Local Numbers

Our local 218 area code numbers come with affordable pricing plans designed to fit every business size. We offer flexible pricing options that scale with your needs, whether you’re a startup or an established enterprise. Additionally, you can save 30% on annual subscriptions, giving your business more value at a lower cost.

Nearby Area Codes to 218

Apart from the 218 area code in Minnesota, several nearby area codes cover the surrounding regions. These codes are useful if your business extends beyond northern Minnesota:

Areas Area Code
Central Minnesota (Saint Cloud, Willmar, Sartell, and Hutchinson) 320
Southern Minnesota (Rochester, Mankato, Austin, and Marshall) 507
Minneapolis-St. Paul (Minneapolis, Fort Snelling, St. Anthony) 612
North Dakota (Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot) 701
Wisconsin (Eau Claire, Wausau, Superior, Rhinelander) 715, 534

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 218 area code, and where is it located?

The 218 area code is a telephone area code for the northern part of Minnesota, serving cities like Duluth, Moorhead, and Bemidji.

What cities does the 218 area code cover?

It covers major cities like Duluth, Moorhead, Hibbing, Bemidji, and Brainerd, as well as many communities in northern Minnesota.

What time zone is area code 218 in?

The 218 area code is in the Central Time Zone (CT).

Does the 218 area code get spam calls?

Like any area code, spam and robocalls do occur, but using a trusted business provider like Goodcall helps filter unwanted calls.

Which types of businesses benefit most from a local 218 number?

Local service providers, tech companies, restaurants, real estate agents, and startups benefit from a 218 number, as it boosts local trust and visibility.

How can I get a local 218 area code number for my business?

You can get a 218 number easily by signing up with Goodcall, choosing your plan, and selecting your preferred local number.

Can I forward calls from my 218 number elsewhere?

Yes. With Goodcall, you can forward calls to any phone, ensuring you never miss a customer inquiry.

How much does it cost to get a 218 area code number?

Goodcall plans are affordable and flexible, starting from $66 per month per agent annually.

Is the 218 area code toll-free?

No, 218 is not a toll-free area code. It’s a geographic code for Minnesota, designed to give businesses a trusted local identity. Toll-free numbers in the U.S. typically begin with prefixes such as 800, 888, 877, or 855.

Last updated:
October 14, 2025

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What is 218 Area Code?

The 218 area code is one of the original North American area codes, established in 1947. It was created to serve the northern and western parts of Minnesota. Due to its large geographical size and low population density, it has not been overlaid with a new area code, unlike many other regions. It is a vital numbering plan area for the northern half of the state. 

  • State: Minnesota 
  • Major Cities: Duluth, Moorhead, Hibbing, Bemidji, and Brainerd 
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST) / Central Daylight Time (CDT) 
  • Established: 1947 
  • Overlay Area Codes: None 
  • Region Population: Approximately 909,054 
  • Primary Uses: Business, Residential

Regions Covered by 218 Area Code

The 218 area code covers roughly the northern half of Minnesota, spanning from the North Dakota border to Lake Superior and northward to the Canadian border. Here is a list of 32 counties and a wide range of cities under this area code:

St. Louis County
  • Duluth
  • Virginia
  • Ely
  • Proctor
  • Eveleth
  • Gilbert
  • Hibbing
  • Hermantown
  • Chisholm
  • Mountain Iron
  • Hoyt Lakes
Clay County
  • Moorhead
  • Hawley
  • Dilworth
  • Barnesville
Crow Wing County
  • Brainerd
  • Crosby
  • Crosslake
  • Baxter
  • Pequot Lakes
  • Nisswa
Itasca County
  • Grand Rapids
  • Coleraine
  • Bovey
  • Cohasset
  • Deer River
Becker County
  • Detroit Lakes
  • Lake Park
  • Frazee
  • Audubon
Beltrami County
  • Bemidji
  • Blackduck
  • Cass Lake
  • Red Lake
Otter Tail County
  • Fergus Falls
  • Pelican Rapids
  • Perham
  • New York Mills
Polk County
  • East Grand Forks
  • Fosston
  • Crookston
  • Fertile
Carlton County
  • Cloquet
  • Scanlon
  • Moose Lake
  • Carlton
Cass County
  • Walker
  • Backus
  • Pine River
  • Longville
Aitkin County
  • Aitkin
  • Palisade
  • McGregor
  • Tamarack
Pennington County
  • Thief River Falls
  • St. Hilaire
  • Goodridge
Wadena County
  • Wadena
  • Menahga
  • Sebeka
Koochiching County
  • International Falls
  • Ranier
  • Littlefork
Roseau County
  • Roseau
  • Badger
  • Warroad

Population & Demographics of 218 Area Code

The 218 area code serves a large geographic area with a diversified economy. While the region is less densely populated than the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, it includes major population centers like Duluth and Moorhead. 

The population is predominantly White, with a significant presence of Native American communities, particularly within and near reservations. The region has a unique demographic blend of urban and rural residents, contributing to a varied consumer market.

218 Area Code Time Zone

The 218 area code is located in the Central Time Zone (CT). This is an important consideration for businesses, as it aligns with the operational hours of other major cities in the central United States. Businesses should be mindful of the time difference when communicating with customers and partners in other time zones.