How are El Salvador phone numbers assigned geographically?

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El Salvador employs a somewhat simplified numbering plan compared to many countries, particularly with the transition to an 8-digit system for all domestic calls. While it doesn't use traditional "area codes" in the sense that larger countries like the United States or Canada do, the initial digits of a phone number still offer a strong indication of whether it's a fixed-line (landline) or mobile number, and for fixed lines, they can broadly indicate a geographic region.

1. The 8-Digit Closed Numbering Plan
El Salvador operates on an 8-digit closed numbering plan. This means that all domestic calls within El Salvador are made by dialing an 8-digit number, without el-salvador phone number list needing a separate area code or trunk prefix. The country code for El Salvador is +503. So, an internationally dialed number would always begin with +503 followed by the 8-digit local number (e.g., +503 This simplification makes dialing within the country straightforward.

2. Fixed-Line (Landline) Number Assignment
For fixed-line numbers, the first digit, typically '2', indicates a landline. Within the '2' prefix, the subsequent digits do broadly correspond to geographic regions, or at least to the major metropolitan and surrounding areas. For example:


20, 21, 22, 25: These prefixes are generally associated with the Metropolitan Area, which includes San Salvador, the capital city, and its surrounding urban zones.
23, 29: These are often linked to the Central Area of El Salvador.
24, 28: These prefixes typically cover the Western Area of the country.
26, 27: These numbers are generally assigned to the Eastern Area of El Salvador. While not as granular as city-specific area codes found elsewhere, these initial digits provide a general geographic indication for fixed lines.
3. Mobile Number Assignment
Mobile numbers in El Salvador are distinct from fixed lines by their initial digits. Generally, mobile numbers begin with either '6' or '7'. Unlike landlines, mobile numbers are not assigned geographically in the same way. A mobile number starting with '6' or '7' can be used anywhere within El Salvador where there is mobile network coverage, regardless of the subscriber's physical location or where the number was originally activated. This is a common characteristic of mobile numbering plans globally, offering portability to users.