What Does 314 Mean? A St. Louis Icon Explained

When you think of St. Louis, a few things immediately come to mind: toasted ravioli, the Gateway Arch, Imo’s pizza with Provel cheese, Cardinals baseball, and of course… 314.

But what exactly does “314” mean—and why is it so iconic in St. Louis culture?

The Basics: 314 as St. Louis’s Area Code

The number 314 is the original area code for St. Louis, first assigned in 1947 when AT&T rolled out the North American Numbering Plan. It covered most of eastern Missouri before eventually being split, leaving 314 as the heart of the St. Louis metro area.

Today, whether you’re dialing a local number, seeing it on merch, or spotting it in a song lyric, 314 = St. Louis pride.

314 in Pop Culture

If you’ve spent any time in the city, you’ve probably heard rapper Nelly rep “the 314” in his lyrics. His success in the early 2000s helped cement the digits as shorthand for St. Louis across the globe.

Beyond music, you’ll find 314 on:

• T-shirts, hats, stickers → Local makers love to brand it.
  

• Food & drink → Breweries and restaurants often drop it in their names or specials.
  

• March 14 (3/14) → St. Louisans call it “314 Day”, celebrating with community events, concerts, and deals from local businesses.
  
  

It’s not just an area code—it’s a badge of belonging.

Why 314 Matters in Real Estate

So why should homebuyers and sellers care about 314? Because it’s more than digits on your phone screen—it’s a sense of place. People proudly choose to live, work, and invest in the 314 because of its unique culture, affordability, and community.

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or selling in today’s market, understanding the local pride and identity behind 314 is key. St. Louis isn’t just a city—it’s a lifestyle, and that’s what makes homes here so special.

Bottom Line

When you hear “314,” you’re not just hearing an area code—you’re hearing St. Louis itself. From Nelly’s music to neighborhood block parties, from 314 Day to your phone number, those three digits are a reminder that St. Louis is home.

Thinking about making your move in the 314? Our team is here to help you find your place in this city we proudly call home.

📞 Let’s talk about your goals and what living in the 314 could look like for you.