787 Area Code
The 787 area code is a telephone area code that covers the entire island of Puerto Rico, a commonwealth of the United States. It was established in 1996 as an overlay for the original area code, 809. The 787 area code is one of the two used in Puerto Rico, with the other being 939. The 787 area code is often referred to as the “metro” or “local” area code, while 939 is known as the “periphery” area code.
The 787 area code serves as the main area code for Puerto Rico, home to over 3 million people. The area code covers all counties, cities, and towns within the island, making it an integral part of the communication systems for residents and businesses. This article will dive deeper into the 787 area code, exploring its history, demographics, geography, and more. So, let’s get started!
The Origin of the 787 Area Code
In 1996, the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) Administration, which oversees telephone numbering in the United States, decided to create a new area code for Puerto Rico due to the increasing demand for telephone numbers. The original area code, 809, was quickly running out of available numbers, so the solution was to introduce a new area code through an overlay. This meant that the new area code, 787, would cover the same geographic area as 809, and unique numbers with the 787 code would be assigned to new phone lines.
Implementing the 787 area code was met with some resistance from the residents and businesses in Puerto Rico. Many people were used to the familiar 809 area code and were not ready to change to the new code. However, the demand for telephone numbers could not be ignored, and the overlay was deemed the most efficient solution. The 787 area code was officially activated on September 1, 1996, and since then, it has been an integral part of communication in Puerto Rico.
Counties that Use the 787 Area Code
The 787 area code covers all counties in Puerto Rico and all considered municipalities. There are 78 municipalities in Puerto Rico, each with its own government and administration. Some of the central counties that use the 787 area code are:
- San Juan
- Ponce
- Carolina
- Mayaguez
- Caguas
- Guaynabo
- Arecibo
- Bayamón
These counties encompass the major urban areas of Puerto Rico and are home to most of the population. However, the 787 area code also covers more minor, more rural municipalities, ensuring that the entire island is connected through one area code.
Major Cities that Use the 787 Area Code
Puerto Rico is a relatively small island, with a total area of only 3,515 square miles. However, it is home to several major cities that use the 787 area code. These cities are:
- San Juan – The capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, with over 350,000 people.
- Ponce – The second-largest city in Puerto Rico, with a population of over 150,000 people.
- Carolina is a major city in the northeastern part of Puerto Rico, with over 170,000 people.
- Mayaguez is a city located on the western coast of Puerto Rico with over 80,000 people.
- Caguas is a city located in the central region of Puerto Rico with a population of over 140,000 people.
These cities have the largest population and serve as cultural, economic, and tourism centers for Puerto Rico.
All Cities & Towns that Use the 787 Area Code
As mentioned earlier, the 787 area code covers all 78 municipalities in Puerto Rico. This includes all cities, towns, and even smaller communities. Here is a comprehensive list of all cities and towns that use the 787 area code:
- Aguada
- Aguadilla
- Aguas Buenas
- Aibonito
- Anasco
- Arecibo
- Arroyo
- Barceloneta
- Barranquitas
- Bayamon
- Cabos Rojo
- Cabos Verde
- Caguas
- Camuy
- Canovanas
- Carolina
- Catania
- Cayey
- Ceiba
- Ciales
- Cidra
- Coamo
- Comerio
- Corozal
- Culebra
- Dorado
- Esequibo
- Fajardo
- Florida
- Guayama
- Guayanilla
- Guaynabo
- Gurabo
- Hatillo
- Humacao
- Isabel
- Jayuya
- Juana Diaz
- Juncos
- Lajas
- Lares
- Las Piedras
- Linenter
- Loiza
- Luquillo
- Manati
- Manayillo
- Maricao
- Maunabo
- Morovis
- Naguabo
- Naranjito
- Orocovis
- Patilla
- Penuelas
- Ponce
- Quebradillas
- Rincon
- Rio Grande
- Sabadell
- Salinas
- San German
- San Lorenzo
- San Sebastian
- Santa Isabel
- Toa Alta
- Toa Baja
- Trujillo Alto
- Utuado
- Vega Alta
- Vega Baja
- Vieques
- Villalba
- Yabucoa
- Yauco
Whether it’s a bustling city or a small town, all these locations are connected through the 787 area code.
Map of the 787 Area Code
To better visualize the geographic area covered by the 787 area code, here is a map:
As you can see, the 787 area code covers the entire island of Puerto Rico, making it easy for residents and tourists to connect.
Demographics of the 787 Area Code
The 787 area code is home to over 3 million people, which makes up the entire population of Puerto Rico. The median age of residents in Puerto Rico is 40 years old, with a fairly even split between males and females. The population is predominantly Hispanic, with Puerto Ricans making up over 99% of the population. The remaining 1% comprises other ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Asians, and Caucasians.
The most common languages spoken in Puerto Rico are Spanish and English, although most residents speak Spanish as their primary language. Puerto Rico is considered a highly urbanized island, with over 90% of the population living in urban areas like cities and towns. However, the island also has a significant rural population, with small communities scattered throughout.
Geography of the 787 Area Code
Puerto Rico is a small island located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. It is primarily mountainous, with three main mountain ranges – Cordillera Central, Sierra de Luquillo, and Sierra de Cayey. Many beaches and coastal plains surround the island, making it a popular tourist destination.
The 787 area code covers the entire island and is divided into four main regions – Eastern, Western, Central, and Southern. Each region has its distinct landscape and features, giving Puerto Rico a diverse and beautiful landscape. The island is also home to several rivers, lakes, and lagoons, making it a lush and vibrant place to live.
The climate of the 787 Area Code
Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The average temperature in Puerto Rico is around 82°F (28°C), with slight variations throughout the year. The island has a rainy season from May to November, with the rest of the year relatively dry.
The tropical climate of Puerto Rico makes it a popular vacation spot, with tourists flocking to the island to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful beaches. However, residents must also deal with the occasional hurricane, as Puerto Rico is in the Atlantic hurricane belt. Nevertheless, the warm and sunny weather in Puerto Rico is one of its most attractive features.
Tourist Attractions in the 787 Area Code
Puerto Rico is a popular tourist destination with its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and diverse landscape. Some of the must-see attractions in the 787 area code include:
Old San Juan
The historic district of San Juan, known for its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and 16th-century fortresses, is a popular spot for tourists. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.
El Yunque National Forest
Located in the Eastern region of Puerto Rico, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. It is home to several hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Bioluminescent Bays
Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays, where the water glows at night due to the presence of microscopic organisms. These bays are famous for tourists who can kayak or take a boat tour.