Because NYC was the most populous city, it received the fastest-dialing code (2-1-2) to minimize congestion, while places like Los Angeles got 213. Why People Still Want a 212 Number
You can port a 212 number to services like Google Voice or business VoIP solutions to use it on your current mobile phone. buy 212 area code
212 is restricted primarily to Manhattan, while other boroughs have long used 718 or 347/929. Because NYC was the most populous city, it
Here is an interesting write-up on the history, value, and process of acquiring a 212 number. The History: Why 212? buy 212 area code