Everything You Need to Know About the 904 Area Code

Your business phone number is often the first impression customers have of your company. Before they visit your website, read your reviews, or walk through your doors, they see your phone number. In a split second, that number tells them whether you’re local, established, and worth their time.

Florida had 1,019 new businesses added in 2024—that’s 3 new businesses a day, and Jacksonville is capturing a significant portion of that growth. New competitors are opening their doors constantly, all fighting for the same customers you’re trying to reach.

Most of these businesses make the same mistake: they get a generic 800 number or use their cell phone for business calls. When a Jacksonville customer sees an out-of-area phone number, they assume you’re not local. They’ll often hang up and call the next business on their list.

A 904 area code does the opposite. It immediately signals that you’re based in Jacksonville, understand the local market, and aren’t going anywhere. Local customers answer 904 calls. They trust 904 numbers. And when they need to choose between two similar businesses, they pick the one with the local number.

Overview of 904 Area Code: What Areas are Covered?

• Jacksonville
• St Augustine
• Fernandina Beach
• Jacksonville Beach
• Orange Park
• Yulee
• Middleburg
• Fleming Island
• Atlantic Beach
• Green Cove Springs

Why Is the 904 Area Code So Popular?

The 904 area code has become deeply connected to Jacksonville’s reputation as a business powerhouse. Ranked 12th nationally for new business startups, Jacksonville has become a business hub for industries like healthcare, finance, education, government, and tourism.

The 904 area code’s significance continues to grow alongside Jacksonville’s expanding population. With over 1 million residents and an annual growth rate of 1.14%, the city attracts a steady stream of new residents and businesses drawn by its economic opportunities and demographic diversity.

This sustained growth creates ongoing demand for 904 phone numbers, cementing the area code’s role as an essential business asset for companies seeking to establish roots in one of Florida’s most rapidly expanding markets.

How to Get a 904 Area Code Number

Getting a 904 area code number is easier than most Jacksonville business owners think. You don’t need to wait months or jump through complicated hoops with the phone company.

Usually, business lines can be setup in a simple three phase process.

Phase 1: Partner Selection

Establishing a 904 business line begins with identifying a reliable VoIP service partner for your Jacksonville operations. Your chosen partner will handle number provisioning and guide you through equipment recommendations tailored to your company’s communication requirements.

Most businesses choose a VoIP provider for their business phones, because traditional phone companies often have limited 904 number availability and charge significantly more for business features that come standard with VoIP services.

When evaluating VoIP providers, ask these key questions:

• Do they have 904 numbers available immediately?
• What’s their porting timeline if you’re moving an existing number?
• Do they offer local Jacksonville support, or will you be calling an international help desk?
• Can they integrate with your existing business software (CRM, email, scheduling tools)?

Phase 2: Equipment Planning

Following a thorough business assessment, your service partner will outline the ideal technology stack for your needs. This assessment should include your current call volume, number of employees, remote work requirements, and integration needs with existing business tools.

Many businesses typically implement a combination of these communication solutions:

• Softphone App: Transform your existing smartphone into a professional business phone while maintaining personal privacy. These apps let you make and receive calls using your 904 business number from anywhere with internet access. Your personal number stays separate.

• Traditional Desk Phones: Modern office phones that deliver familiar functionality enhanced with advanced connectivity features. These aren’t your grandfather’s desk phones—today’s models include HD voice quality, call recording, conference calling, and integration with your computer for features like click-to-dial from your email or CRM.

• Computer-Based Phone Systems: Software that integrates with existing business tools like Teams or Zoom for streamlined call management. This option works especially well for businesses already using Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, as calls can be made directly from your email contacts or calendar appointments

Most businesses find that a hybrid approach works best: desk phones for reception and main offices, softphone apps for employees who travel or work remotely, and computer integration for sales teams who live in their CRM systems.

Together, these phone systems create a cohesive communication system for your team, whether they’re in the office, working remotely, or traveling.

Phase 3: Deployment and Training

After choosing your equipment, your provider will deliver the hardware along with comprehensive installation documentation. For software-only solutions, you’ll typically receive setup instructions via email within hours of signing up.

Most businesses can complete setup using their existing technical staff, especially if you’re comfortable with basic networking (like setting up WiFi or printers). The process usually involves:

• Day 1: Number assignment and account setup (usually completed within 2-4 hours)
• Day 2-3: Equipment delivery and initial configuration
• Week 1: Staff training and system testing
• Week 2: Full deployment and any needed adjustments

For a more comprehensive experience, many providers offer full-service deployment where experts come to your location to handle installation, system configuration, and staff training. This turnkey approach ensures your new 904 business line is fully operational and your team is confident using all system features.

Most providers also include ongoing support, so if you run into issues or want to add features later, help is just a phone call away, often from a local Jacksonville support team.

Establish Local Presence with a 904 Area Code

With 3 new businesses opening every day in Florida, standing out in Jacksonville takes more than good service.

A 904 area code establishes local presence immediately. When someone sees 904 on your marketing, your website, or your business card, they know you’re here in Jacksonville. No questions asked.

Your competitors without local numbers? They have to work twice as hard to prove they’re not some out-of-state operation. You don’t.

If you’re serious about competing in Jacksonville, get a 904 area code. It’s one of the easiest ways to look established before you even answer the phone. Schedule a call with one of our product experts to learn how we can help you set up your business lines.