Toll-Free vs Local Number: Which One Is Right?
Should your business use a toll-free number or a local one? Here’s how to choose the right phone line based on your goals, customers, and growth plans.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Toll-Free Number | Local Number |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Perception | More professional, national reach | More personal, community-based |
| Best For | Growing businesses, national brands | Local shops, field service teams |
| Prefix | 800, 888, 877, etc. | Local area codes (e.g., 212, 469) |
| Caller Trust | Instant recognition | Known area codes build local rapport |
| Cost | Starts at $9.99/mo | Starts at $6.99/mo |
When to Use a Toll-Free Number
- You want to look national or enterprise-grade
- Your customers are spread across multiple regions
- You do a lot of marketing or outbound sales
- You want a memorable, branded number (vanity)
When to Use a Local Number
- You serve a specific city or metro area
- You want to appear local and community-based
- You run a field service, delivery, or home business
- You want to establish trust with nearby customers
Why Not Both?
Many businesses use both toll-free and local numbers. A toll-free line for national reach and a local number for a community feel. You can route both through the same system and track performance easily.
FAQs
Can I get both a toll-free and local number?
Yes! You can manage both types from the same dashboard and use them for different teams or campaigns.
Which one is better for advertising?
Toll-free numbers typically perform better in national or digital ads. Local numbers may perform better for community-based outreach or direct mail.
Is there a difference in call quality?
No. Both types run on our carrier-grade cloud network with the same uptime guarantee.
Pick the Right Number for Your Business
Search both toll-free and local numbers and choose what fits your growth goals.
