What is 312 Area Code?
The 312 area code, one of the smallest in the US and an enclave area code completely surrounded by other numbering plans, evokes a sense of nostalgia and vibrancy when mentioned. Known for covering the iconic streets of Downtown Chicago, the 312 area code brings to mind Chicago-style hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, lively jazz music, and distinctive architecture exemplified by the renowned Sears Tower.
Exploring the 312 area code unveils a hidden history of one of America's most beloved cities. From attractions like Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Cloud Gate, and the stunning Lake Michigan, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy on a sunny day. For those interested in culture and history, embarking on a Chicago River trip or a prohibition-themed excursion offers a glimpse into the city's rich past.
Despite concerns about the perceived loss of area code status, individuals seeking a 312 cell phone number need not worry. Residents of Chicago can still obtain a 312 or 772 number when signing up for new cell phone service or adding a residential line, ensuring continuity for the foreseeable future. According to Brian from the Illinois Commerce Commission, Chicago residents will have access to these iconic area codes for their communication needs.
Where is 312 Area Code?
The 312 area code, located in Illinois and spanning a small geographical area, serves residents and businesses from North Avenue to 35th Street in the north-south direction, and from Western Avenue to Lake Michigan in the east-west direction.
One of the prominent cities within the 312 Area Code is Chicago, IL. Chicago, officially known as the City of Chicago, stands as the most populous city in the United States and the third-largest overall, following New York City and Los Angeles. Renowned as an international center for finance, culture, commerce, industry, education, technology, telecommunications, and transportation, Chicago boasts a population of 2,746,388 as per the 2020 census. Its economy is recognized for its remarkable diversity, making it one of the most well-balanced economies in the nation.
Moreover, Chicago's rich history, iconic architecture, vibrant arts scene, world-class dining, and diverse neighborhoods make it a top destination for tourists and a beloved home for its residents. The city's stunning skyline, encompassing renowned landmarks like the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center, further adds to its allure as a global metropolis.
The Time Zone of 312 Area Code
The 312 area code is linked to the Central Standard Time zone, which is alternatively referred to as the America/Chicago timezone. This time zone is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Additionally, the Central time zone covers a significant portion of the United States, including states like Texas, Illinois, and Wisconsin. It observes daylight saving time, shifting to Central Daylight Time during the summer months to provide an extra hour of daylight in the evenings.
The History of 312 Area Code
The 312 area code, established in 1947 under the North American Numbering Plan, holds the distinction of being one of the nation's oldest and smallest area codes. Originally encompassing the entire Greater Chicago region, the 312 area code underwent a significant transformation in 1989 when it was divided to accommodate the growing population and expanding telecommunications needs.
Following the split, the 312 area code became synonymous with Downtown Chicago, as surrounding suburbs were assigned new area codes like 708 and 847. Despite subsequent divisions, Chicago remains one of the few cities in the United States with multiple area codes, akin to Los Angeles with its 310 and 213 area codes.
The 312 area code continues to evoke images of the bustling streets and iconic landmarks of Downtown Chicago, capturing the essence of the city's vibrant culture and rich history in popular imagination.
The Demographics of 312 Area Code
According to data gathered from the 2010 Census, the population residing within the 312 area code is currently estimated at 2,926,848 individuals. Among them, there are approximately 1,246,728 individuals of white descent and 1,056,172 individuals of Black descent, with the remaining population primarily consisting of Hispanic or Asian heritage.
Additionally, the median age within the 312 area code is reported to be 33.17 years old, indicating that the majority of residents fall within the middle-aged demographic. This suggests a diverse and vibrant community with a mix of cultural backgrounds and experiences.
Furthermore, the 312 area code is known for its rich history, bustling urban environment, and diverse range of amenities, making it a dynamic and sought-after location for both residents and visitors alike.
The Main Industries of 312 Area Code
The Chicago Metropolitan Area, encompassing the city of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, boasts a thriving economy supported by 36 Fortune 500 companies. Serving as a key transportation and distribution hub, the region is a bustling center for industries such as manufacturing, printing, publishing, insurance, transportation, financial trading, services, and food processing.
Recent data reveals that educational, health, and social services make up the largest sector of the city's economy, comprising 18.95% of total employment. Following closely behind is the professional, scientific, and administrative services sector, accounting for 13.73% of jobs in the area.
Additionally, the Chicago Metropolitan Area is known for its vibrant cultural scene, world-class dining options, and diverse neighborhoods that offer a high quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The region's rich history, architectural landmarks, and renowned museums contribute to its status as a top destination for tourism and business.
Exploring the 312 Area Code: Sightseeing and Delicious Dining Options
The 312 area code covers downtown Chicago, which is a vibrant city with plenty of tourist attractions and restaurants to explore. Here are some recommended attractions and restaurants in the 312 area code:
Tourist Attractions:
1. Millennium Park - Home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," Millennium Park is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and enjoy outdoor concerts and events.
2. The Art Institute of Chicago - One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute features an impressive collection of artwork from around the world.
3. Navy Pier - This iconic landmark offers shopping, dining, entertainment, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can also take a ride on the Ferris wheel for a bird's eye view of the city.
4. Willis Tower Skydeck - Experience breathtaking views of Chicago from the Skydeck, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. Don't miss the glass-bottomed Ledge for a thrilling experience.
Restaurants:
1. Girl & the Goat - A popular restaurant by award-winning chef Stephanie Izard, known for its creative small plates and innovative flavors.
2. Alinea - A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a unique and immersive dining experience with inventive dishes and exceptional service.
3. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria - A Chicago institution known for its deep-dish pizza, Lou Malnati's is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
4. The Purple Pig - This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers a variety of small plates and charcuterie, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
These are just a few of the many attractions and restaurants you can explore in the 312 area code. Enjoy your visit to Chicago!
312 area code keeps calling me? Should I answer it?
Is it safe to answer calls from the 312 area code? Generally, most calls from this area code are from businesses seeking to engage with customers. However, there is a possibility of receiving fraudulent calls from 312 numbers.
It can be challenging to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent 312 calls. The best approach is to answer the call and determine the caller's identity. If it's someone you know, you can proceed with the conversation. If not, it's advisable to hang up immediately.
How to block 312 area code on iPhone?
You can block 312 area codes numbers on your iPhone by adding them to the block list in 3 simple steps:
Step 1: Open Recent on your iPhone.
Step 2: Tap on the 312 phone number then press "i" icon.
Step 3: Scroll down and press Block this Caller.
How to block 312 area code on Android?
You can block 312 area code numbers on Android by adding in the block list 3 simple steps:
Step 1: Open the Call history on your android smartphone.
Step 2: Tap on the 312 phone number then press "i" icon.
Step 3: Tap the “kebab” icon (three vertical dots) and press Block contact.
(Note: the steps may vary in different android phone brands.)
Other Popular Area Codes
Find phone numbers and learn about our most popular area codes, or try searching for your preferred area code!
