What is 617 Area Code?
The introduction of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) in 1947 marked the assignment of 617 as one of the initial area codes. In response to the growing population and increased telephone usage in the region, area code 857 was overlaid onto 617 in 2001. This adjustment allowed for the continued allocation of phone numbers to meet the demands of the evolving telecommunications landscape.
Both landline and mobile phone services, along with virtual phone numbers, can be designated with area codes 617 and 857. These area codes have become integral identifiers for residents and businesses in the Greater Boston area, facilitating efficient communication and connectivity within the community. The implementation of these area codes reflects the ongoing efforts to streamline and optimize the telecommunications infrastructure to support the diverse needs of the region's inhabitants.
Where is 617 Area Code
The 617 area code extends from Quincy in the southeast to Hyde Park, Riverdale, and Dedham Islands in the west. It borders Newton in the northwest and covers Boston and surrounding cities like Cambridge, Chelsea, and Boston in the east.
The 617 area code is home to some of the nation's most iconic landmarks. While many may think of Fenway Park, the Cheers bar, and delicious baked beans when they think of Boston, the area code offers much more than just baseball and cuisine. Before exploring Boston Common, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Boston Public Garden or follow the historic Freedom Trail. The Boston Public Market is a fantastic spot to grab fresh food before embarking on further city adventures. A trip to Samuel Adams or the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum provides insight into the city's rich historical significance.
Additionally, the 617 area code boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with renowned institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Arnold Arboretum and Franklin Park offer beautiful green spaces to explore. And for those seeking a taste of local flavor, the diverse neighborhoods within the 617 area code provide a plethora of dining options ranging from traditional New England fare to international cuisine.
The Time Zone of 617 Area Code
The 617 area code region operates on Eastern Time, with Boston and the rest of Massachusetts following Eastern Daylight Time (GMT-4) during daylight saving time and Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5) for the remainder of the year. This means that residents in this area must adjust their clocks accordingly twice a year to accommodate the time changes. Additionally, it is important for businesses and individuals in the 617 area code to stay informed about any potential changes to time zones or daylight saving time regulations to ensure smooth operations and scheduling.
The History of 617 Area Code
The 617 area code, established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest area codes in the United States. Initially encompassing a vast region from Worcester County to Cape Cod and the Massachusetts South Coast, it was a unique division for the state of Massachusetts at that time. The state was divided, with the 617 area code serving the South Coast and Cape Cod areas, while the rest of the state and its wetter regions were covered by the 413 area code.
In subsequent years, the 617 area code underwent changes, being reissued in 1988 and again in 1997. Today, it exclusively serves the city of Boston and its neighboring suburbs such as Quincy, Cambridge, and Newton. As demand for phone numbers grew, the 857 area code was introduced as an overlay to the 617 area code at the turn of the century.
Currently, approximately 65 percent of phone numbers in Greater Boston are assigned the 617 area code, with the remaining numbers utilizing the 857 area code. This evolution reflects the dynamic nature of telecommunications and the ongoing need for efficient number allocation in densely populated urban areas like Boston.
The Demographics of 617 area code
The 617 area code, as reported by the 2010 Census, serves a population of 1,272,396 individuals, comprising 610,557 men and 661,839 women. The majority of the population, totaling 870,178 people, is White, with the remaining residents being primarily Black, Hispanic, and Asian.
In addition, the 617 area code encompasses 5 counties and 63 cities, with Boston being the most prominent among them. Boston, the capital and largest city of Massachusetts, is also the 24th most populous city in the United States. As of 2020, the city proper has a population of 675,647 and covers approximately 48.4 square miles (125 km2).
Boston has evolved into a thriving hub for scientific research, boasting around 5,000 companies. The city is globally recognized for its excellence in higher education, particularly in fields such as law, medicine, engineering, and business.
Moreover, Boston's rich history and cultural significance attract millions of tourists each year, drawn to iconic landmarks like Fenway Park, the Freedom Trail, and Harvard University. The city's vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and picturesque waterfront make it a dynamic and captivating destination for visitors from around the world.
The Main Industries of 617 Area Code
The Innovation District in Boston is a key initiative aimed at supporting new businesses and startups through various resources such as networking events, coworking spaces, pop-up commercial areas, and shared labs located at District Hall. Boston, known for its strong presence in the financial services industry and academia, has established itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Despite its innovative environment, Boston is recognized as one of the most expensive cities globally to launch a business. In 2018, it was ranked as the sixth most costly city for starting and operating finance-related firms. However, industries like education and healthcare have seen less impact from these high costs. While manufacturing has faced challenges, it remains a significant sector within Boston's diverse economy, with both traditional and emerging industries contributing to its growth.
Boston is widely regarded as one of the top business destinations in the United States, offering opportunities across various sectors. Major industries in the city include finance, high-tech research and development, tourism, medicine, education, commercial fishing, food processing, printing and publishing, and government services. The city's dynamic business landscape continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors seeking a thriving ecosystem for growth and innovation.
Exploring the 617 Area Code: Sightseeing and Delicious Dining Options
The 617 area code covers the city of Boston, Massachusetts, which is a popular tourist destination with many attractions and restaurants. Here are some recommended tourist attractions and restaurants in the 617 area code:
Tourist Attractions:
1. Freedom Trail: A 2.5-mile walking trail that takes you through 16 historical sites in Boston, including the Paul Revere House and Faneuil Hall.
2. Fenway Park: Home of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, this historic stadium offers tours and games during the season.
3. Boston Common and Public Garden: These two adjacent parks are great for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.
4. Museum of Fine Arts: One of the largest art museums in the United States, featuring a vast collection of artworks from around the world.
5. New England Aquarium: Explore marine life and exhibits, including a giant ocean tank with sharks and sea turtles.
Restaurants:
1. Neptune Oyster: A popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh oysters and lobster rolls.
2. Union Oyster House: America's oldest continuously operating restaurant, serving classic New England seafood dishes.
3. Giacomo's Ristorante: A cozy Italian restaurant in the North End known for its delicious pasta dishes.
4. Flour Bakery + Cafe: A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, offering pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
5. Toro: A trendy Spanish tapas restaurant with a lively atmosphere and creative small plates.
These are just a few of the many attractions and restaurants to explore in the 617 area code. Be sure to also check out local events, festivals, and seasonal activities happening in Boston during your visit.
617 area code keeps calling me? Should I answer it?
Is it safe to answer calls from the 617 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 617 numbers.
It can be challenging to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent 617 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 617 area code on iPhone?
You can block 617 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 617 phone number then press "i" icon.
Step 3: Scroll down and press Block this Caller.
How to block 617 area code on Android?
You can block 617 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 617 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.)
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