617 area code

The 617 area code is a telephone area code that covers the majority of the city of Boston, as well as a few surrounding cities and towns in Massachusetts. It is one of the original area codes established in 1947 and was the sole area code for the entire state until 1997, when it was split into the current day 617 and 781 area codes. The 617 area code is currently used by over 100 cities and towns in the state, making it one of the most densely populated area codes in the country. In this article, we will explore the various cities and towns that utilize the 617 area code, as well as their demographics, geography, climate, and more.

Cities and Towns that Use the 617 Area Code

The 617 area code covers the city of Boston, as well as parts of several other cities and towns in the Greater Boston area. Some of the major communities that utilize the 617 area code include Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Milton, Newton, Quincy, Revere, Somerville, and Watertown. In total, there are over 100 cities and towns that fall within the boundaries of the 617 area code, making it one of the most densely populated area codes in the country.

Counties that Use the 617 Area Code

The majority of the cities and towns that use the 617 area code fall within Suffolk County, which encompasses the city of Boston. A few of these cities and towns, such as Winthrop and Revere, are located in neighboring Essex County. The eastern part of the city of Boston and neighboring cities like Cambridge and Somerville fall within Middlesex County. Overall, the 617 area code covers parts of four different counties: Suffolk, Middlesex, Essex, and Norfolk.

Major Cities that Use the 617 Area Code

The largest and most well-known city that utilizes the 617 area code is, of course, Boston. As the capital of Massachusetts and one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston is a bustling hub of culture, history, and commerce. It is home to over 700,000 residents and is a major center for education, healthcare, and technology. Some of the other major cities that use the 617 area code include Cambridge, the home of Harvard and MIT; Quincy, known for its historical significance and vibrant community; and Chelsea, a diverse and welcoming city located just across the Mystic River from Boston.

All Cities & Towns that Use the 617 Area Code

There are over 100 cities and towns that use the 617 area code in Massachusetts. Here is a list of all of the cities and towns that fall within the boundaries of the 617 area code:

• Boston
• Allston
• Brighton
• Cambridge
• Chelsea
• Chestnut Hill
• Dorchester
• East Boston
• Everett
• Hull
• Jamaica Plain
• Mattapan
• Medford
• Milton
• Newton
• Quincy
• Revere
• Roslindale
• South Boston
• South End
• Watertown
• West Roxbury
• Winthrop

As you can see, the 617 area code covers a diverse range of communities, from bustling cities to small suburban towns. Each of these cities and towns has its own unique character and attractions, making the 617 area code a vibrant and dynamic region to live in.

Map of the 617 Area Code and Its Population

To give you a visual representation of the 617 area code and its population, we have included a map below. The darker shaded areas indicate higher population densities, while the lighter shaded areas have lower populations.

According to the US Census Bureau’s 2019 estimates, the population of the 617 area code is approximately 3.6 million people. The largest city, Boston, has a population of over 700,000, followed by Cambridge with over 118,000 residents. This area code is one of the most densely populated in the country, and with its diverse mix of urban and suburban areas, it offers something for everyone.

Geography and Climate of the 617 Area Code

The 617 area code is situated in eastern Massachusetts, bordering the Atlantic Ocean. The topography of the area is mostly flat, with some hilly areas in Cambridge and Newton. The Charles River runs through the southern portion of the area code, while Boston Harbor is located on the eastern edge.

The climate of the 617 area code is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures in the 80s. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing.

Tourist Attractions in the 617 Area Code

The 617 area code is home to numerous tourist attractions, with something for everyone to enjoy. Some popular attractions in the area include the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking tour that takes visitors through Boston’s historic sites; the New England Aquarium, which is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals; and the Museum of Science, a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages.

In addition, the 617 area code is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene. From iconic clam chowder and lobsters to innovative fusion cuisine, there are countless dining options to satisfy any craving.

Education in the 617 Area Code

The 617 area code is home to several prestigious universities, including Harvard, MIT, and Tufts. These institutions attract top scholars and researchers from around the world and contribute to the area’s vibrant intellectual and cultural community.

In addition to higher education, there are also excellent public and private schools throughout the 617 area code. The Boston Public Schools district, which serves the city of Boston, is the oldest public school system in the country and offers a wide range of educational programs for students of all ages.

Healthcare in the 617 Area Code

The 617 area code is home to some of the best hospitals and healthcare facilities in the country. The Greater Boston area is known for its world-renowned medical institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Boston Children’s Hospital. These facilities offer top-notch care and are often at the forefront of medical research and innovation.

Government and Administration of the 617 Area Code

The 617 area code falls within the jurisdiction of several local and state governments. The city of Boston has its own government, headed by a mayor and a city council, while the surrounding cities and towns have their own mayors, town managers, or city councils. The state government, led by the governor and state legislature, also plays a role in governing the 617 area code.

FAQs about the 617 Area Code

In this section, we will answer some frequently asked questions about the 617 area code:

Q: What is the time zone of the 617 area code?

A: The 617 area code falls within the Eastern Time Zone, which is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-5). During Daylight Saving Time, the area code follows Eastern Daylight Time (GMT-4).

Q: What is the history of the 617 area code?

A: The 617 area code was one of the original area codes created in 1947 along with the rest of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). At that time, it encompassed the entire state of Massachusetts. In 1997, it was split to create the current day 617 and 781 area codes.

Q: What is the population of the 617 area code?

A: The estimated population of the 617 area code is 3.6 million people, with the city of Boston having the largest population of over 700,000.

Q: What is the largest city in the 617 area code?

A: The largest city in the 617 area code is Boston, which serves as the capital of Massachusetts.

Q: What is the cost of living in the 617 area code?

A: The cost of living in the 617 area code varies depending on the city or town. According to the 2020 Census data, the median home value in the area code is $509,500, while the median household income is $66,051.

Q: Is the 617 area code growing in population?

A: Yes, the 617 area code has been experiencing steady population growth in recent years. Between 2010 and 2019, the area code’s population increased by 9.3%, with Boston being the main driver of this growth.

Final Thoughts

With its diverse communities, rich history, vibrant culture, and top-notch educational and healthcare institutions, the 617 area code offers a unique and dynamic living experience for its residents. Whether you are a visitor or a long-time resident, there is always something new to explore and discover in the cities and towns that make up the 617 area code.

If you have any further questions about the 617 area code, please feel free to submit them in our Q&A section below. We would be happy to provide you with answers and help you learn more about this fascinating area of Massachusetts.