When you receive a business card in Morgantown, it often starts with the area code 304.

Long-time residents say that seeing a 304 number gives them a sense of being a true West Virginian. However, these days, numbers starting with 681 are also common. Both area codes are valid for West Virginia, but what are the differences? When I first moved to this area, I was confused about this, so I decided to clarify it.

The 304 area code is the original area code that covers all of West Virginia. It has been assigned to the entire state since the North American numbering plan was established in 1947, giving it over 70 years of history. For a long time, the formula of associating 304 with West Virginia was so strong that it became a symbolic number. Among residents, having a 304 number is often seen as part of their local identity. Older businesses tend to keep their 304 numbers.

The 681 area code is an overlay code introduced in 2008. It was added as a second area code in the same region as the 304 number due to a decrease in available 304 numbers. Both area codes are used equally throughout West Virginia, including Morgantown. Technically, there is no difference, and regardless of which number is assigned, they share the same local calling network. New subscribers or business lines often receive a 681 number. Many residents have reported getting a 681 number when they first activated their smartphones.

One significant change that has come with the coexistence of these two area codes is that local calls within Morgantown must now be dialed with the full 10-digit number, including the area code. You can no longer connect by dialing just 7 digits as before. You must enter the entire number starting with either 304 or 681. This is a common mistake for newcomers, so it's good to be aware of it. While smartphones handle this automatically, caution is needed when using landlines or older equipment.

In practice, there is rarely a need to distinguish between 304 and 681. Both numbers are West Virginia numbers, and the calling rates and service areas are the same. If there is a difference, it might be that 304 feels a bit more local. If you are starting a new business or planning to move to Morgantown, it doesn't matter which number you choose; what matters is that you are becoming part of this city. Ultimately, how you connect with this community is more important than the number itself.

One more thing to keep in mind is that with the increase in spam calls and phishing attempts in Morgantown, just because a number starts with 304 or 681 doesn't mean it's safe. There are cases where phone number spoofing technology is used to hijack area codes, so be cautious about providing personal information to unknown callers. It's safest to handle new number activations or transfers through official carrier stores.

If you are a WVU student, you can also use the campus service center. Knowing your area code and using it safely is fundamental to living in this city. Additionally, when activating a business phone number, some choose an 800 or toll-free number, but many believe that having a local 304 or 681 number is more effective in building local trust for small businesses in Morgantown. A local number can create a strong first impression with customers.

Using internet phone services allows you to maintain a 304 or 681 number even if you are outside Morgantown, making it a viable option for those who travel frequently. Most carriers support number portability, so it's also possible to switch services while keeping your existing number.