Have you ever seen the 917 area code, and if you have, you must have been confused as to whether it is an area code or a landline phone number? What does the area code 917 represent? This area code is one of the most popular area codes in New York State, United States. And this area code is also created in the same state.
Whether you are running a big business or a small business, you must have always seen this number, and you must also want to use it in your business. So, you want to know everything about it. What is its history? What is the purpose of creating it, and how much will using it improve my business? I am going to tell you all this in this blog post. Let’s start our blog post.
What Is the 917 Area Code?
The 917 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and was introduced in 1992 as an overlay for the New York City area. It covers all five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Initially, 917 was designated for mobile phone users only, but over time, it became a catch-all code for both landline and mobile numbers.
The fact that area code 917 does not correlate to any particular geographic region within New York City is an important consideration. Rather, it functions as an extension of the current area codes, such as 212, 718, and 646. Because 917 covers the entire metropolitan area, it is impossible to determine whether you are contacting someone in Brooklyn or Manhattan when you dial the number.
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The History Behind the 917 Area code
Area code 212 accounted for the majority of New York City’s phone numbers prior to the implementation of area code 917. The 212 area code, however, was insufficient to meet the demands of the expanding urban landscape as the city’s population increased and the demand for phone numbers surged.
While Manhattan and the Bronx continued to use the 212 area code, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island were covered by the 718 area code, which was introduced in 1984. Nevertheless, the 917 area code was established in 1992 as a result of the growing need for additional phone numbers. It started a trend where several area codes could cover the same geographic area, and was the first overlay area code in the US.
New York City was able to satisfy the growing demand for phone numbers while guaranteeing that local communication services remained available to businesses and residents by implementing Phone code 917.
Geographic Coverage of the 917 Area Code
The five boroughs of New York City, one of the most crowded cities in the US, are all included in the 917 phone number code. With more than 8 million inhabitants dispersed throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, the 917 area code plays a vital role in facilitating personal and professional communication between millions of people.
The diverse neighborhoods of New York City, each with its own distinct cultural identity, are well-known. The 917 area code serves all of these areas, from the famous skyscrapers of Manhattan to the creative scene in Brooklyn, giving locals and businesses simple access to both domestic and international communication.
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What Is the Time Zone for the 917 Area Code?
The 917 area code operates within the Eastern Time Zone (ET), the same time zone that covers much of the U.S. East Coast. This means that if you’re calling someone in New York City from another part of the country, you’ll need to adjust for the time difference.
Additionally, during Daylight Saving Time (DST), the area code follows Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is UTC−4. Outside of DST, the area code adheres to Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is UTC−5.
It’s important to note that while the 917 area code covers all of New York City, the time zone remains consistent across the entire region.
Why Do Businesses Use the 917 Area Code?
For businesses, the 917 phone number code offers a unique opportunity to establish a local presence within New York City. Getting a 917 number can help you get into the New York market, build trust with local customers, and make it easier for people to reach you, no matter where you are in the country or the world.
Businesses that want to keep a local identity while reaching a wider audience will find a New York-based number very helpful. New York City is known all over the world, so having a number with a 917 area code makes your business feel very connected to the city and its people. Also, businesses in the entertainment, tourism, real estate, or finance industries will benefit from using this famous area code to make stronger connections.
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Are There Any Misconceptions About the 917 Area Code?
A lot of people think that 917 numbers are only for cell phones. While the area code was initially designated for mobile numbers, it is now used for both landline and mobile phones across New York City. This means that if you get a call from a 917 number, you won’t be able to tell if it’s a cell phone or a landline unless you ask.
People also think that only people who live in New York City can get the 917 area code. People or businesses outside of the area can get a 917 number, even though the code is most closely linked to the city. But using a 917 area code outside of New York City might not be right.
How to Get a 917 Phone Number
Getting a 917 number is easy. Here are the main ways to do it:
Use a VoIP Service
The easiest way to get a 917 phone number is through a VoIP service like Google Voice, MightyCall, or RingCentral. These services let you choose a New York City-based area code without being in the city.
Contact Your Telecom Provider
You can also get a 917 number through traditional phone providers like Verizon or AT&T. If you live outside New York, they may let you choose a 917 number, but availability depends on your provider.
Virtual Numbers for Business
For businesses, using virtual phone services like Grasshopper or Nextiva is ideal. These services let you get a New York number, even if you aren’t physically in the city.
Number Portability
If you already have a phone number and want to switch to 917, you can use number portability. This service lets you keep your existing number while changing the area code.
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Nearby Area Codes to 917
The 917 area code is part of New York City’s phone system. Here are a few nearby area codes:
212
- One of the oldest area codes, 212 covers Manhattan and is highly recognizable.
718
- The 718 area code covers Brooklyn, Queens, and parts of The Bronx.
646
- Serving Manhattan, 646 is often used for mobile phones and newer numbers.
929
- This area code is an overlay for 718 and covers parts of Brooklyn and Queens.
347
- 347 serves areas like Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx, offering more options for phone numbers in the city.
These nearby area codes ensure that New York City has enough numbers for its massive population and businesses.
Read also What Is The 646 Area Code?
Practical Uses for 917 Area Code Numbers
The 917 area code offers plenty of practical benefits. Here are some of the top uses:
Establish a Local Presence for Your Business
A 917 phone number helps businesses create a local New York presence, even if you’re based elsewhere. This is especially useful for businesses in industries like real estate, tourism, or finance.
Stay Connected If You Moved from NYC
If you’ve left New York but want to keep your connections, a 917 number lets you maintain a link to the city. It’s perfect for staying in touch with friends, family, or businesses.
Remote Workers and Digital Nomads
If you’re working remotely but want a New York City area code, a 917 number is a great solution. It allows you to appear as if you’re in the city while you work from anywhere.
Call Forwarding for Virtual Businesses
If you run a virtual business, a 917 number with call forwarding lets you manage calls from anywhere. You can receive calls from your New York clients while working from home or abroad.
Marketing and Local Outreach
For marketers targeting New Yorkers, a 917 area code number adds credibility to your local campaigns. People are more likely to pick up calls from a local number, improving your outreach efforts.
Conclusion
A 917 area code number is a valuable tool for businesses and individuals who want to stay connected to New York City. Whether you’re running a local business, maintaining connections after moving, or working remotely, a 917 number is a great choice.
Getting a 917 phone number is easy through VoIP services, telecom providers, or virtual services. With nearby area codes like 212, 718, and 646, New York City has plenty of options to meet your communication needs.
FAQs
Is the 917 area code exclusive to mobile phones?
No, while initially assigned to mobile phones, the 917 area code is now used for both mobile and landline numbers in New York City.
Can I get a 917 area code number if I don’t live in New York City?
Yes, it’s possible to get a 917 number from various VoIP service providers, even if you don’t live in New York City.
Why was the 917 area code introduced?
The 917 area code was introduced in 1992 as an overlay to meet the increasing demand for phone numbers in New York City due to population growth.
What businesses benefit from having a 917 area code?
Businesses looking to establish a local presence in New York City, such as those in the real estate or tourism sectors, can benefit from acquiring a 917 area code number.
How can I get a 917 area code number for my business?
You can acquire a 917 area code number through VoIP providers or by contacting your current telecommunications service provider.
