The area code 513 is located in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Area code 513 serves southwest Ohio and centers on Cincinnati, a major city on the Ohio River at the Kentucky border. It covers most of Hamilton County and parts of Butler, Warren, and Clermont counties, connecting suburbs and historic river towns across the metro. Established in 1947 as one of the original North American area codes, 513 has long been the primary code for Cincinnati phone numbers. Its location anchors the Ohio–Kentucky–Indiana tri-state region, with quick links to neighboring area codes 937 (north), 859 (KY), and 812/930 (IN).
Major cities and communities in the 513 area code include:
From big-league venues like Paycor Stadium (Cincinnati Bengals) and Great American Ball Park (Cincinnati Reds) to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 513 covers many of the region’s best-known landmarks. It also includes the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center downtown and Kings Island in Mason, one of the Midwest’s largest theme parks. Major campuses such as the University of Cincinnati and Xavier University sit within the 513 footprint, adding a strong student and research presence. The area code follows the Eastern Time Zone.
In 1996, the northern portion of the old 513 territory became area code 937, reducing 513 to Cincinnati and nearby counties. To add more numbers, area code 283 was introduced in 2023 as an overlay, so new lines may use 283 while existing 513 phone numbers stay the same. This overlay means 10‑digit dialing is required for local calls within the region. For anyone looking up Cincinnati phone numbers, 513 remains the city’s iconic code and a quick signal you’re calling southwest Ohio.
Established: 1947; Split: 937 (1996); Overlay: 283 (2023) — Sources: North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) and Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)