Population and Demographics
The population served by Area Code 504 is approximately 1,156,627 individuals across 15 cities and 5 parishes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2020 Census data. New Orleans, the largest city within this area code, has a population of 383,997 according to the 2020 U.S. census. This demographic information is essential for businesses looking to understand their potential customer base and market size.
The 504 area code serves five parishes: Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, and St. Tammany. Recent Census Bureau data shows the region has a median household income of $32,614 and an average home value of $97,958, with a household size of 2.59 persons.
Key demographic facts include:
- New Orleans: 383,997 residents
- Metairie: Significant suburban population
- Kenner: Diverse community with a mix of residential and commercial areas
- Median household income: $32,614
- Average home value: $97,958
Understanding these demographics can help businesses tailor their services and marketing strategies to meet the needs of the local population.
Time Zone and Dialing Requirements
Area Code 504 operates within the Central Time Zone (CST), which follows UTC − 06:00 during Standard Time.
Important dialing updates: As of October 24, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated 10-digit dialing for all local calls within the 504 region, replacing seven-digit dialing. This transition facilitates the introduction of the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline while ensuring compatibility with existing services.
Key points about the time zone and dialing:
Aligning business operations with the local time zone and current dialing requirements ensures better customer service and operational efficiency.
Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses
New Orleans, within Area Code 504, is noted as a significant center for entrepreneurship. The city hosts various notable companies and organizations across different sectors, including education, healthcare, technology, and energy.
Recent developments include Meta's $10 billion AI data center and Louisiana's $100 million Innovation Fund and AI Institute announced in April 2025, which enable 5,000 SMBs to leverage generative AI technologies.
Key sectors include:
- Education: Loyola University, University of New Orleans, Tulane University
- Healthcare: Ochsner Health System, Depaul Community Health Centers
- Technology: PureSpectrum, Sleep Number
- Energy & Utilities: Shell, Entergy, Marathon Petroleum
- Telecommunications: T-Mobile's $290 million 5G network upgrade covering 92% of the region
This diverse economic landscape provides numerous opportunities for small businesses to thrive and grow.
504 Area Code Scams and Security Awareness
As with any major metropolitan area code, businesses and consumers in the 504 region should remain vigilant about potential phone scams. While the area code itself is legitimate and covers the greater New Orleans area, scammers may attempt to use local numbers to gain trust from residents.
Common precautions include:
- Verify the identity of unknown callers claiming to represent businesses or government agencies
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls requesting personal or financial information
- Report suspicious calls to local authorities and the FCC
Maintaining awareness of these potential issues helps protect both businesses and consumers in the 504 area code region.
Unique Business Story: The Resilience of New Orleans
New Orleans is renowned for its resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The city has rebuilt itself into a hub of innovation and creativity, attracting startups and established businesses alike.
Recent infrastructure improvements include Louisiana's $1.3 billion BEAD funding approved in January 2025, targeting 140,030 underserved locations with fiber connections. The state's "Internet for All" initiative mandates connection of all unserved locations by 2026, directly enabling VoIP adoption in previously disconnected areas.
One notable example is the growth of the technology sector, with companies like PureSpectrum and Sleep Number establishing a strong presence, alongside new AI-focused initiatives that unite 50+ organizations in supporting local innovation.
The city's unique culture, combined with its strategic location and modern telecommunications infrastructure, makes it an ideal place for businesses to innovate and expand.
Benefits of Using Goodcall in Area Code 504
For businesses operating in Area Code 504, Goodcall offers a range of benefits that can enhance customer service and operational efficiency. Goodcall's AI phone assistant replaces traditional IVR technologies, providing an answering service that is never busy and always available.
Key benefits include:
- 24/7 Availability: Your business is always reachable, even outside of regular hours.
- Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for expensive call centers or additional staff.
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Interactive AI provides a more engaging and efficient experience than simple voicemail systems.
- Scalability: Easily accommodates increased call volumes as your business grows.
- Local Presence: Maintain strong community connections with a trusted 504 area code number.
By leveraging Goodcall, businesses in Area Code 504 can improve their customer service, reduce operational costs, and ensure they never miss a call. This is particularly beneficial for small businesses such as hair salons, barbers, plumbers, contractors, computer repair services, and massage and fitness centers, all of which rely heavily on customer interactions and appointments.
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