217 Area Code
The 217 area code is one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) codes, created in 1947. It serves a large portion of central Illinois, including the cities of Springfield (the state capital), Champaign-Urbana, and Decatur. Due to growing demand for numbers, area code 447 was added as an overlay in 2021, meaning both 217 and 447 now cover the same geographic region.
Understanding the 217 Area Code
Area code 217 is assigned to much of central Illinois. It spans urban centers, university towns, and rural areas. The standard number format is (217) NXX-XXXX. With the 447 overlay in place, 10-digit dialing is required for all local calls within the region.
217 Area Code Map and Geographic Location
The 217 area code map covers a wide portion of central Illinois, extending across multiple counties. It includes the state capital, major universities, historic towns, and agricultural regions. The area is strategically located between Chicago to the north and St. Louis to the southwest.
All Major Cities and Regions in the 217 Area Code
The 217 area code covers a diverse mix of metropolitan and rural areas in central Illinois. Major cities and regions include:
- Springfield - Capital of Illinois, government, historic Lincoln sites
- Champaign-Urbana - Home of the University of Illinois
- Decatur - Manufacturing, agribusiness hub
- Danville - Near the Indiana border
- Effingham - Transportation crossroads in southern central Illinois
- Jacksonville - Education and healthcare center
- Charleston & Mattoon - Eastern Illinois University and nearby towns
- Smaller towns & rural areas across Sangamon, Champaign, Macon, Vermilion, Coles, and surrounding counties
ZIP Codes within the 217 Telephone Zone (Examples)
Representative ZIP codes within the 217/447 numbering area include:
- 62701 - Downtown Springfield
- 62704 - West Springfield
- 61801 - Urbana (University of Illinois)
- 61820 - Champaign
- 62521 - Decatur (Central)
- 62526 - Decatur (North)
- 61832 - Danville
- 62401 - Effingham
- 62650 - Jacksonville
- 61920 - Charleston
- 61938 - Mattoon
Time Zone
The 217 area code lies in the Central Time Zone (CT). It observes Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6) in the winter and Central Daylight Time (CDT, UTC-5) during daylight saving time.
Dialing, Phone & Service Details
- Local dialing: 10-digit dialing required (217 or 447 + 7-digit number).
- Long-distance (within NANP): Dial
1 + area code + number. - International: Dial your international exit code +
1(U.S. country code) +217+ 7-digit number (e.g.,+1 217 NXX XXXX). - Services: Available on landlines, cell phones, VoIP, and business PBX systems.
Why the 217 Area Code Matters
The 217 area code is deeply connected with central Illinois. It represents the state�s political center in Springfield, major educational hubs like the University of Illinois, and a mix of historic and agricultural communities. Many organizations and residents value 217 numbers as a sign of authenticity and regional identity.
What area code is 217? / Where's area code 217?
What area code is 217? � It is a historic Illinois telephone code serving Springfield, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, and other central Illinois communities.
Where's area code 217? � It covers central Illinois counties and cities, with overlay code 447 sharing the same territory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 217 Area Code
What is the 217 area code?
It is an original 1947 NANP code covering central Illinois, including Springfield, Champaign-Urbana, and Decatur.
Where is area code 217 located?
It covers central Illinois, serving major cities like Springfield, Champaign, Decatur, and Danville.
What time zone is 217 in?
Central Time (CST/CDT).
Is 217 used for cell phones or landlines?
Both. It applies to mobile phones, landlines, VoIP, and business systems.
How do I call a 217 number from outside the U.S.?
Dial your country�s exit code, then +1 217 followed by the 7-digit number (e.g., +1 217 555 0199).
Does 217 have overlays?
Yes � area code 447 was added as an overlay in 2021.
