647 Area Code
The 647 area code is one of North America’s many telephone area codes. This particular area code was introduced in 2001 as an overlay for the 416 area code, which covers the downtown core of Toronto, Ontario. The 647 area code was created to accommodate the growing population and increasing demand for phone lines in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). It was also implemented so that additional phone numbers would not require changing the existing area codes, which can be disruptive and confusing for residents.
Before introducing the 647 area code, the 416 area code covered the entire GTA and some outlying areas, such as Oshawa and parts of Hamilton. The 416 area code was the only code used in Toronto for almost half a century since its inception in 1947. However, with the rise of technology and the rapid population growth, assigning another area code to areas previously covered by 416 became necessary.
Counties that Use the 647 Area Code
The 647 area code is used in several counties in southern Ontario, including the Regional Municipality of Peel, York Region, the City of Vaughan, and the City of Brampton. It is also used in the Regional Municipality of Durham, the City of Oshawa, the Town of Whitby, the Regions of Halton and Hamilton, and a few smaller municipalities such as Aurora, Markham, and Newmarket. The complete list, as listed by the Canadian Numbering Administrator, includes:
- Durham Region (Ajax, Brock, Clarington, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge)
- Halton Region (Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville)
- City of Markham
- City of Richmond Hill
- City of Vaughan
- Regional Municipality of York (East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Newmarket, Whitchurch-Stouffville)
- Regional Municipality of Peel (Brampton, Caledon, Mississauga)
- Regional Municipality of Halton (Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville)
- City of Hamilton (rural area)
- City of Oshawa
- City of Whitby
Major Cities that Use the 647 Area Code
The cities using the 647 area code are Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, and Oakville. These cities are part of the GTA, the most populous metropolitan area in Canada and comprise the cities and towns surrounding Toronto. Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the largest city in Canada and the fourth largest in North America, with a population of over 2.7 million people.
Mississauga, situated just west of Toronto, is the sixth-largest city in Canada and is home to over 700,000 residents. It is a diverse, multicultural city with a strong economy and a thriving arts and cultural scene.
Brampton, located northwest of Toronto, is the ninth largest city in Canada, with a population of over 595,000 people. It is known as the Flower City because of its large greenhouse industry and is also home to the Canadian head offices of several multinational corporations.
Markham, situated in the northern part of the GTA, is the fourth largest city in the region, with a population of over 353,000. It is a thriving business hub focusing on technology and innovation.
Vaughan, located north of Toronto, is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Canada, with a population of over 320,000 people. It is a vibrant and diverse city with a strong economy and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.
Richmond Hill, situated just north of Toronto, is the third most populous municipality in the York Region, with over 200,000 people. It is a culturally diverse community with a strong focus on sustainability and a high quality of life.
Oakville, situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, is a picturesque town with a population of over 192,000 people. It is known for its charming historic downtown, beautiful parks and trails, and a strong sense of community.
All Cities & Towns that Use the 647 Area Code
In addition to the major cities listed above, several smaller towns and municipalities use the 647 area code. These include Ajax, Aurora, Burlington, Caledon, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, Halton Hills, King, Milton, Newmarket, Oakville, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge, Whitchurch-Stouffville, and Whitby.
Each town has unique charm and attractions, from historic heritage sites to beautiful parks and nature trails. With the 647 area code connecting these communities, it is easy for residents and visitors to stay connected and accessible to one another.
Population, Geography, and Climate of the 647 Area Code
The population of the 647 area code is approximately 6.8 million people, which makes up a significant portion of the Greater Toronto Area’s total population of 6.4 million. The majority of the population in this area is concentrated in large urban centres, with some rural and suburban areas scattered throughout.
The geography of the 647 area code is diverse, with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas. The terrain is relatively flat, except for some small hills in the northern parts of the region. The location is also on Lake Ontario’s shores, which provides beautiful waterfront areas for residents to enjoy.
The climate in the 647 area code is classified as humid continental, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 25°C/77°F while in the winter months it ranges from -6°C/21°F to -1°C/30°F. The region also experiences all four seasons, with beautiful fall foliage and pleasant spring weather.
Tourist Attractions in the 647 Area Code
The 647 area code has several popular tourist attractions, ranging from historical sites to modern entertainment and cultural hubs.
The CN Tower in Toronto is one of the most iconic landmarks in the 647 area code. Standing 553 meters tall, it offers stunning city views and features a revolving restaurant and EdgeWalk, a thrilling hands-free walk around the tower’s edge.
The Royal Ontario Museum, also located in Toronto, is Canada’s largest museum of natural history and world culture. It features many artifacts and exhibits, including dinosaurs, Chinese architecture, and more.
The Toronto Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the world, is located in Scarborough and is home to over 5,000 animals from over 450 species. It is divided into seven different geographic regions, with animals from each region residing in habitats that closely resemble their natural environments.
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Canada’s Wonderland is a must-visit destination. Located in Vaughan, this amusement park features over 200 attractions, including 17 roller coasters and a huge water park.
Other popular attractions in the 647 area code include the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Ontario Science Centre, and the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto.
Education, Healthcare, and Government in the 647 Area Code
The 647 area code houses several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, York University, and the Ontario College of Art and Design. These universities offer a wide range of programs and have a diverse student population worldwide.
The healthcare system in the 647 area code is top-notch, with several world-renowned hospitals and health centres. This includes Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, and SickKids Hospital, all located in Toronto’s downtown core. Many family clinics and community health centres throughout the region provide residents with easy access to healthcare.
The 647 area code is part of the government of Ontario, which is responsible for the administration, health, education, and other aspects of the area. It is governed by a mayor and city council, with each municipality having its local government structure. The Ontario government also funds infrastructure projects, public services, and social services in the 647 area code.
Recent Changes and Updates to the 647 Area Code
Since its introduction in 2001, the 647 area code has seen several changes and updates. In 2013, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) approved adding a new area code, 437, now an overlay for the 416 and 647 area codes. This was necessary due to the increasing demand for phone numbers in the GTA, and the 437 area code is now used for new phone numbers or when existing numbers need to be changed or reassigned.
There have also been updates to how long-distance calls are dialled within the 647 area code. Previously, a long-distance call within the area code required 11 digits. However, since March 2013, local calls within the 416 and 647 area codes can be dialled using only the seven-digit number.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What area codes are affected by the 647 area code overlay?
The 647 area code overlay affects the 416 area code and some parts of the 905 and 289 area codes in Southern Ontario.
2. Are there any plans to introduce another area code?
At this point, there are no plans to introduce another area code. However, as the population grows and technology advances, this may change.
3. How do I know if I need to change my phone number to the 647 area code?
You do not need to change your phone number if you live in the areas covered by the 647 area code. Only new or existing phone numbers that need to be changed or reassigned will be given the 647 area code.
4. Will I pay extra for calls within the 647 area code?
No, local calls within the 647 area code are considered regional and will not incur additional charges.