217 area code

What is the 217 area code and where is it located?

The 217 area code is one of the original telephone area codes assigned to Illinois. It covers the central portion of the state, including its capital city of Springfield, as well as Champaign, Urbana, Decatur, and Danville. The 217 area code was first introduced in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and has since become a crucial part of the state’s identity and communication infrastructure.

Which cities and towns use the 217 area code?

The 217 area code covers a large portion of central Illinois and is divided into 36 counties. Some of the major cities and towns that use the 217 area code include:

• Springfield
• Champaign
• Urbana
• Decatur
• Danville
• Charleston
• Taylorville
• Savoy
• Effingham
• Jacksonville

For a full list of cities and towns that use the 217 area code, refer to the map below.

Which counties are covered by the 217 area code?

The 217 area code covers a total of 36 counties in central Illinois. Some of the major counties include:

• Sangamon County
• Champaign County
• McLean County
• Macon County
• Vermilion County
• Christian County
• Effingham County
• Morgan County
• Logan County

For a complete list of counties covered by the 217 area code, see the map below.

What is the population of the 217 area code?

As of 2021, the estimated population of the 217 area code is approximately 1.1 million people. The largest city within the area code is Springfield with a population of over 116,000, followed by Champaign with a population of over 87,000. The smallest city within the 217 area code is Villa Grove with a population of just over 2,500.

What is the geography and climate of the 217 area code?

The 217 area code covers a diverse range of geographical features, from flat prairies to hilly woodlands. The northern part of the area code is more flat, with fertile agricultural land, while the southern part is more hilly and covered in forests. The overall climate of the 217 area code is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. However, due to its location in the central part of the state, it experiences more mild temperatures compared to other areas of Illinois.

What are some popular tourist attractions in the 217 area code?

The 217 area code offers a variety of tourist attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top attractions include:

• The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield
• The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, one of the top public universities in the country
• The Illinois State Capitol building in Springfield
• Decatur’s Scovill Zoo and Children’s Museum of Illinois
• The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts in Champaign
• Shelbyville Lake, a popular fishing and boating destination

What are the education and healthcare systems like in the 217 area code?

The 217 area code is home to several well-respected educational institutions, including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, and Millikin University in Decatur. These universities provide a range of academic programs and contribute to the area’s thriving education sector. As for healthcare, the region is well-served by several major hospitals, including Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, and Decatur Memorial Hospital.

What is the local government and administration like in the 217 area code?

The 217 area code is divided into numerous local governments, including city and county governments, as well as various special districts. The overall county government structure in Illinois is decentralized, with significant authority given to local governments to make decisions and provide services for their respective communities.

How can I find out more information about the 217 area code?

For more detailed information about the 217 area code, you can visit the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) website. The website provides an interactive map of area codes and their locations as well as other resources related to area codes and phone numbers.

Map of the 217 Area Code

Q&A Section

Q: Is the 217 area code expected to change in the future?

A: As of now, there are no plans to change the 217 area code. However, with the growing population and increasing demand for phone numbers in central Illinois, it is possible that a new area code may be added in the future to accommodate this growth.

Q: How do I make a long-distance call to the 217 area code?

A: To make a long-distance call to the 217 area code, you would need to dial 1, then the area code, and then the seven-digit phone number. For calls within the 217 area code, you can simply dial the seven-digit phone number.

Q: I received a call from a number with the 217 area code, but I don’t recognize it. Should I be concerned?

A: It is always a good practice to be cautious when receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers. However, if you are concerned about a specific call, you can use online resources to research the phone number and see if it has been reported as a scam or spam call.

Q: How do I get a new phone number with the 217 area code?

A: To get a new phone number with the 217 area code, you would need to contact your phone service provider. They will be able to assign you a new phone number with the desired area code, if available.

Q: Is the 217 area code a toll-free number?

A: No, the 217 area code is not a toll-free number. Calls made to numbers within the 217 area code are typically charged at standard long-distance rates.

Conclusion

The 217 area code is an integral part of central Illinois, serving as the primary communication channel for thousands of residents and businesses. It covers a diverse range of cities, towns, and counties, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you are planning a visit to the area or simply want to learn more about its history and culture, the 217 area code offers a wealth of information and opportunities to explore.