215 Area Code
The 215 area code is one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) telephone codes, assigned in 1947 to serve Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding metropolitan region in the United States. It is among the most historically recognized codes in the nation. Due to demand and population growth, 267 (in 1997) and 445 (in 2018) were introduced as overlay codes, meaning all three area codes now serve the same geographic footprint.
Understanding the 215 Area Code
Area code 215 designates telephone numbers located in Philadelphia County and parts of neighboring Bucks County and Montgomery County. The standard format is (215) NXX-XXXX, where the NXX indicates the central office (exchange). Since overlays 267 and 445 are in effect, 10-digit dialing is mandatory for all local calls.
215 Area Code Map and Geographic Location
The 215 area code map centers on Philadelphia, extending outward into select suburbs of Bucks and Montgomery Counties. It covers urban neighborhoods, historic districts, commercial corridors, and residential suburbs. On interactive maps, the 215 telephone zone corresponds to Philadelphia�s city limits and nearby suburban towns.
All Major Neighborhoods and Areas in the 215 Area Code Region
The 215 area code encompasses Philadelphia and adjacent suburban areas. Key neighborhoods and regions include:
- Central Philadelphia: Center City, Old City, Rittenhouse Square, Society Hill, Washington Square West
- North Philadelphia: Northern Liberties, Fishtown, Kensington, Fairhill
- West Philadelphia: University City, Mantua, Overbrook
- South Philadelphia: Passyunk, Bella Vista, Queen Village, Stadium District
- Northwest Philadelphia: Germantown, Chestnut Hill, Mount Airy, Manayunk, Roxborough
- Northeast Philadelphia: Mayfair, Frankford, Bustleton, Somerton
- Suburban Areas: Parts of Bucks County (Bensalem, Levittown) and Montgomery County (Abington, Cheltenham, Jenkintown)
ZIP Codes within the 215 Telephone Zone (Examples)
Representative Philadelphia ZIP codes covered by the 215/267/445 numbering plan include:
- 19102 - Center City
- 19103 - Rittenhouse Square, Logan Square
- 19104 - University City, Drexel University, UPenn
- 19106 - Old City, Independence Mall
- 19107 - Chinatown, Washington Square West
- 19111 - Fox Chase, Northeast Philadelphia
- 19114 - Torresdale, Northeast Philadelphia
- 19120 - Olney, Feltonville
- 19121 - Strawberry Mansion, Brewerytown
- 19128 - Roxborough, Manayunk
- 19130 - Fairmount, Art Museum District
- 19140 - Hunting Park
- 19020 - Bensalem (Bucks County)
- 19046 - Jenkintown (Montgomery County)
Time Zone
The 215 area code lies in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). It observes Eastern Standard Time (EST, UTC-5) in the winter and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT, UTC-4) during daylight saving time.
Dialing, Phone & Service Details
- Local dialing: 10-digit dialing required (215, 267, or 445 + 7-digit number).
- Long-distance (within NANP): Dial
1 + area code + number. - International: Dial your international exit code +
1(USA country code) +215+ 7-digit number (e.g.,+1 215 NXX XXXX). - Services: Used across landlines, mobile phones, VoIP services, and business PBX systems.
Why the 215 Area Code Matters
The 215 area code is closely associated with Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence. Businesses, universities, and cultural institutions often retain 215 numbers as a mark of authenticity and local identity. Because of its history and prestige, many residents and companies prefer 215 numbers, even though 267 and 445 are widely used today.
What area code is 215? / Where's area code 215?
What area code is 215? � 215 is a historic telephone code assigned to Philadelphia and nearby suburbs in Pennsylvania.
Where's area code 215? � It covers Philadelphia County, plus parts of Bucks and Montgomery Counties, with overlays 267 and 445.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 215 Area Code
What is the 215 area code?
It is the original area code for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, created in 1947 and overlaid by 267 and 445.
Where is area code 215 located?
215 serves Philadelphia and parts of surrounding Bucks and Montgomery Counties in southeastern Pennsylvania.
What time zone is 215 in?
Eastern Time (EST/EDT).
Is 215 used for cell phones or landlines?
Both. The code applies to mobile phones, landlines, VoIP, and business numbers.
How do I call a 215 number from outside the U.S.?
Dial your country�s international exit code, then +1 215 followed by the 7-digit number (e.g., +1 215 555 0199).
Does 215 have overlays?
Yes � the overlays 267 and 445 cover the same region.
