800 or Local? Choose the Number That Wins in Your Market

Pick wrong and you look fuzzy; pick right and you look obvious. Use this quick guide to decide between an 800 vanity number, a local vanity number—or both.

Choose 800 When…

• You serve multiple cities or a full state.
• Authority matters (legal, medical, finance, national services).
• You want a clean, nationally recognized front door for referrals.

Choose Local When…

• You win on proximity (home services, restaurants, clinics, retail).
• Customers ask, “Are you nearby?”
• Community reputation drives word-of-mouth.

The Hybrid Play (Often the Winner)

• 800 for ads & referrals, Local for trucks & storefront.
• List both on your site: 800 up top, local in the footer/contact.

How to Pick Words That Stick

• Use your category (PLUMB, LOCK, ROOF, PEST, PIZZA, DENTAL).
• Keep it short; avoid awkward hyphens or odd spellings.
• If exact is taken, try synonyms or add your city name.

Speed-to-Phone Setup

• We match available 800 or local options.
• You keep your current phone—just forward the new number.
• Publish everywhere on day one for the compounding effect.

Readability Rules

• Say it out loud. If a teen or grandparent can repeat it, it’s good.
• Avoid doubled letters that muddle spelling.
• Favor simple, familiar words over clever puns.

Decision Snapshot

• Mostly local customers? Start with local vanity.
• Regional/national mix or credibility gap? Lead with 800.
• Growing fast? Run the hybrid and standardize both.

Final Word
Your number is a micro-brand. Choose the version that makes you obvious to call—then put it everywhere.