207 area code
Located in the northeastern region of the United States, Maine is the largest of the New England states. Known for its beautiful forests, rocky coastline, and rich history, Maine is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. One key aspect that connects this diverse state is its area codes. The most prominent of these is the 207 area code, which covers the entirety of Maine. In this article, we will delve deeper into the 207 area code and explore its cities, counties, geography, climate, attractions, and more.
Area Code 207: The Basics
The 207 area code is the telephone area code that covers the entire state of Maine. It was one of the original area codes assigned when the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) was established in 1947. The NANP is a numbering plan that assigns unique telephone numbers to each geographic region in North America, including the United States, Canada, and some Caribbean countries. Currently, there are nearly 20 countries and territories that use the NANP numbering plan.
Originally, the 207 area code covered the entire state of Maine and was shared with New Hampshire. However, in 1997, when demand for new telephone numbers increased, New Hampshire received its own area code (603), leaving 207 to cover Maine exclusively.
Cities that Use 207 Area Code
One of the unique characteristics of the 207 area code is that it covers the entire state of Maine, making it the only area code in the state. However, not all cities in Maine are designated as being part of the 207 area code. The most populous cities and towns that use the 207 area code include:
- Portland
- Lewiston
- Bangor
- South Portland
- Auburn
- Biddeford
- Augusta
- Saco
- Westbrook
- Bath
These cities, along with other smaller towns and communities, all use the 207 area code. This includes rural areas, islands, and coastal towns, making the 207 area code an important tool for communication and connection for all residents of Maine.
Counties that Use 207 Area Code
The 207 area code covers all 16 counties in Maine. These include:
- Aroostook
- Hancock
- Washington
- Oxford
- Penobscot
- Franklin
- Kennebec
- Piscataquis
- Somerset
- Sagadahoc
- Lincoln
- Knox
- Androscoggin
- Cumberland
- Waldo
- York
Each county in Maine has its own unique character, but despite their differences, all of them are connected through their use of the 207 area code. The 207 area code serves as a unifying link for Maine’s diverse and beautiful communities.
All Cities & Towns that Use 207 Area Code: Map and Population
To better understand the reach and impact of the 207 area code, let’s take a look at a map of Maine and its population. The map below shows all the cities and towns in Maine that use the 207 area code:
As you can see, the 207 area code covers almost the entire state of Maine, with the exception of a small portion in the northernmost region. This area is covered by the 418 area code of Quebec, Canada.
According to the latest data from the US Census Bureau, Maine has a population of approximately 1.3 million people. This makes it the 42nd most populous state in the country. Its largest city, Portland, has a population of just over 67,000 people, while its capital, Augusta, is home to about 19,000 residents.
Geography and Climate of Area Code 207
Maine is divided into three distinct geographical regions: the Atlantic coast, which includes the “Down East” and “Mid Coast” areas; the interior, which includes the “North Woods,” “Lakes and Mountains,” and the “Katahdin” regions; and the western-most, “Aroostook County.” The 207 area code covers all of these regions, making it one of the largest area codes in terms of geographic coverage.
The climate in Maine is classified as continental, with cold winters and mild summers. The proximity of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Maine moderates the temperatures along the coast, while inland areas tend to experience more extreme weather conditions. Snowfall is common in Maine, with the northern parts of the state receiving as much as 110 inches on average per year. The southern parts of the state typically receive around 70 inches of snow annually.
Tourist Attractions in the 207 Area Code
Maine is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for tourists all year round. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in the 207 area code include:
- Acadia National Park: Located in Maine’s “Down East” region, this park is known for its rugged coastline, mountains, and forests.
- Portland Museum of Art: This museum features over 22,000 artworks from American and European artists, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Renoir.
- Kennebunkport: A charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches, fishing ports, and stunning ocean scenery.
- Bar Harbor: A quaint town located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is known for its lobster fisheries and picturesque coastal views.
- Baxter State Park: This park is home to Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine, and offers scenic hikes and breathtaking views.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that the 207 area code has to offer. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, art and culture, or simply a relaxing getaway, Maine has something for everyone.
Education in Maine
Maine has a strong education system, with a high rate of high school graduation and an above-average number of college graduates. The state is home to several renowned universities, including:
- University of Maine (Orono)
- Bowdoin College (Brunswick)
- Colby College (Waterville)
- Bates College (Lewiston)
- University of New England (Biddeford)
In addition to these universities, Maine also has several community colleges and technical schools that offer a wide range of programs and courses to students.
Healthcare in Area Code 207
Maine has a well-developed healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and medical centers located throughout the state. Some of the top hospitals in the 207 area code include:
- Maine Medical Center (Portland)
- Easter Maine Medical Center (Bangor)
- Mid Coast Hospital (Brunswick)
- Central Maine Medical Center (Lewiston)
- Penobscot Bay Medical Center (Rockport)
Maine also has many small, community-based clinics and healthcare facilities that serve the needs of its residents.
Government and Administration in Maine’s 207 Area Code
Maine’s state government is located in its capital city, Augusta. The state follows a bicameral legislature, with a House of Representatives and a Senate. The governor of Maine, currently Janet Mills, is the head of the state’s executive branch.
Maine’s state government also plays a critical role in managing the state’s natural resources, such as its forests and waterways. This includes overseeing and regulating hunting, fishing, and forestry activities, making it a key industry for many residents of the 207 area code.
Area Codes and Zip Codes in Maine
In addition to the 207 area code, Maine also has three overlay area codes: 207/351, which covers some parts of Maine’s Duluth-Superior metropolitan area; 207/467, which serves some of Maine’s western and northern regions; and 207/782, which covers the easternmost portion of the state.
Maine’s zip codes follow a similar pattern, with each region having its own unique zip code prefix. The first two digits of a Maine zip code typically correspond to one of the state’s overlay area codes. For example, zip codes beginning with “04” usually fall within the 207/401 overlay area code, while zip codes starting with “03” fall within the 207/351 overlay area code.
Recent Changes and Updates to the 207 Area Code
The most recent change to the 207 area code occurred in 2019 when the Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) approved a new area code, 326, as an overlay for the 207 area code. This change was deemed necessary due to the high demand for new telephone numbers as Maine’s population continues to grow. However, the 207 area code is still the main area code for Maine, and residents with existing numbers will not need to change or replace them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the best time to visit Maine?
A: The best time to visit Maine depends on your interests. For outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing, summer is typically the ideal time. However, for activities such as skiing and ice fishing, winter is the best season.
Q: What is the largest city in the 207 area code?
A: The largest city in the 207 area code is Portland, with a population of over 67,000 residents.
Q: Can I keep my 207 area code number if I move within Maine?
A: Yes, if you move within Maine, you can keep your existing 207 area code number.
Q: Are there any plans to add more area codes to Maine in the future?
A: As of now, there are no plans to add more area codes to Maine, although the state continues to grow, so it is always a possibility in the future.
Q: What is the zip code for Augusta, Maine?
A: The zip code for Augusta, Maine is 04330.
In Conclusion
The 207 area code is an important symbol of connection and unity for the state of Maine. From its diverse cities and towns to its stunning