A Comprehensive Guide to the 339 Area Code

Introduction

The 339 area code, established in 1998, serves the greater Boston metropolitan area in Massachusetts. It is the second area code assigned to the region, after the 617 area code. With its rapidly growing population and economic hub, the 339 area code plays a significant role in the communication infrastructure of the region. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the 339 area code, including its history, service area, demographics, and essential information for businesses and residents.

History of the 339 Area Code

The 339 area code was introduced by the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) in 1998 to alleviate the increasing demand for telephone numbers in the Boston metropolitan area. The 617 area code, initially assigned to the entire region, had reached its capacity due to the surge in population and businesses. The creation of the 339 area code allowed for the expansion of telephone services and the allocation of additional numbers to the growing region.

Service Area

The 339 area code covers a substantial portion of the Boston metropolitan area, including the following cities and towns:

• Boston
• Brookline
• Cambridge
• Chelsea
• Everett
• Malden
• Medford
• Newton
• Quincy
• Revere
• Somerville
• Watertown
• Winthrop

The 339 area code also serves parts of the following counties:

• Middlesex County
• Norfolk County
• Suffolk County

Demographics

The service area of the 339 area code encompasses a diverse population with a rich cultural heritage. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of the Boston metropolitan area (including the 339 area code) is approximately 4.9 million. The region is home to a mix of ethnicities, including a substantial population of Irish, Italian, and African American residents. The area is also known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene, with numerous colleges and universities, including Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Boston University.

Economic Importance

The 339 area code serves the economic engine of the Boston metropolitan area. The region is a hub for finance, healthcare, technology, and education. According to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, the region's gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to be over $480 billion, making it one of the most economically vibrant regions in the United States. The area is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, including Fidelity Investments, General Electric, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. The 339 area code plays a crucial role in facilitating business communications and economic growth in the region.

Essential Information for Businesses and Residents

Phone Number Formats

Phone numbers in the 339 area code follow the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) format. They consist of ten digits:

(339) XXX-XXXX

where XXX represents the exchange code and XXXX represents the line number.

Area Code Overlays

To meet the growing demand for telephone numbers in the Boston metropolitan area, an area code overlay was implemented in 2016. This means that the 857 area code was added to serve as an overlay to the 339 area code. As a result, new phone numbers assigned in the 339 area code region may have either the 339 or 857 area code.

Dialing Instructions

When making a local call within the 339 area code service area, you do not need to dial the area code. However, when calling from outside the 339 area code, you must dial the full ten-digit phone number, including the area code.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure smooth and reliable communication, it is important to avoid the following common mistakes when using the 339 area code:

• Forgetting to dial the area code: When calling from outside the 339 area code region, remember to dial the full ten-digit phone number, including the area code.
• Using the wrong area code: Make sure to use the correct area code (339 or 857) when dialing a phone number in the Boston metropolitan area.
• Not dialing "1" for long distance: If you are calling a number outside the United States, remember to dial "1" followed by the country code before the phone number.

How to Use the 339 Area Code

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Determine the location of the person or business you are calling. If they are within the 339 area code service area, you do not need to dial the area code.
2. If you are calling from outside the 339 area code region, dial "1" for long distance, followed by the 339 area code, and then the seven-digit phone number.
3. For local calls within the 339 area code, dial only the seven-digit phone number.
4. If you are not sure which area code to use, consult a phone directory or online resource to confirm the correct area code for the location you are calling.

Call to Action

The 339 area code is an essential part of the communication infrastructure of the greater Boston metropolitan area. By understanding the history, service area, demographics, and essential information provided in this article, you can effectively use the 339 area code for both business and personal purposes. Remember to avoid common mistakes and follow the step-by-step approach to ensure reliable and efficient communication. As the region continues to grow and evolve, the 339 area code will remain a vital part of its economic and social fabric.

Additional Resources

• North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA)
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
• Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

Tables

Table 1: Population of the 339 Area Code Service Area

Table 2: Top Employers in the 339 Area Code Service Area

Table 3: Key Economic Indicators for the 339 Area Code Service Area