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US area code · Massachusetts

Area code 617

Where the 617 area code is, its overlay and how to dial a +1 617 number from anywhere.

CoversBoston, MassachusettsTime zoneEastern (ET)TypeOverlay
Quick answer

The 617 area code is in Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Eastern (ET)). To call from abroad: +1 617 555-0123. It is an overlay, so all 10 digits are dialled.

StateMassachusetts
Main areaBoston
Time zoneEastern (ET)
TypeOverlay
10-digit dialingRequired
In service since01-Jan-1947

The 617 area code is a geographic North American Numbering Plan (NANP) code covering Boston, Massachusetts. It has been in service since 01-Jan-1947 and sits in the Eastern (ET) time zone.

Overlay 617 shares its region

Several area codes cover the same geographic area, so two neighbours can have different codes. Because of the overlay, you must dial all 10 digits (area code + number) even for local calls.

617857

How to dial a 617 number

From abroad+1 617 555-0123
Within the US / Canada1 617 555-0123
Locally (same area)617 555-0123

Cities in the 617 area code

A 617 number is usually in one of these places in Massachusetts — 3 counties.

Belmont MiddlesexBrookline NorfolkCambridge MiddlesexChelsea SuffolkEverett MiddlesexMilton NorfolkNewton MiddlesexQuincy NorfolkSomerville MiddlesexSouth BostonWatertown Middlesex

Other Massachusetts area codes

339351413508774781857978

Frequently asked questions

Where is the 617 area code?

The 617 area code is in Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Eastern (ET)).

Is 617 an overlay area code?

Yes. 617 overlays the same region as 857, so callers dial all 10 digits.

Do I have to dial 10 digits for 617?

Yes — dial the area code plus the seven-digit number.

How do I call a 617 number from another country?

Dial your exit code (or +), then 1, then 617, then the number: +1 617 555-0123.

Source: NANPA numbering plan. An area code covers a region, not a precise address — a 617 number does not pinpoint a street or ZIP code.

Missed a call from +1 617?

In the 30 days to September 24, 2026, 358 unwanted calls showing a 617 number were reported to the US Federal Trade Commission, 58% of them recorded messages or robocalls. That puts 617 at #264 of 670 area codes reported.

Other114
Reducing your debt (credit cards, mortgage, student loans)91
Dropped call or no message64
Calls pretending to be government, businesses, or family and friends38
Before you call back
  • If you do not know anyone in Massachusetts, do not call back: a genuine caller will leave a message or send a text.
  • Scammers fake the number shown on caller ID, so a 617 number can hide a caller anywhere in the world.
  • Never give a code received by text or a bank detail to an unknown caller. In the US, calls can be reported at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Who issues +1 617 numbers

Phone companies hold blocks of numbers in each area code. The main holders in 617:

Verizon New England Inc. 334Mcimetro Access Transmission Services LLC 71New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC 68Paetec Itel, LLC 44Tc Systems, Inc. 41Level 3 Communications, LLC 39

About 13.3% of the 800 prefixes in use belong to mobile carriers: a 617 number is often a cell phone, and it may have moved to another carrier since.

Sources: FTC Do Not Call reported calls (numbers as reported by consumers, not verified), NANPA central office code assignments.

All US area codes United States +1 Map of area code 617 — cities & rate centres