312 Area Code

The 312 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves the central business district of Chicago, Illinois, USA. Established in 1947 as one of the original area codes in Illinois, 312 specifically covers downtown Chicago and the Loop area. Known for its association with business, finance, and iconic Chicago landmarks, 312 remains one of the most recognized area codes in the United States.

Understanding the 312 Area Code

The 312 area code serves major neighborhoods in downtown Chicago, including The Loop, Near North Side, River North, Streeterville, and South Loop. It is primarily used for landline phones, mobile phones, VoIP, and business telecommunications. Due to overlay area code 872, 10-digit dialing is required for all local calls within this region.

312 Area Code Map and Geographic Location

The 312 area code map covers central Chicago, centered around the Loop business district and adjacent neighborhoods along Lake Michigan. The area includes commercial offices, residential high-rises, cultural institutions, government buildings, and transportation hubs.

All Major Neighborhoods and Regions in the 312 Area Code

  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • River North
  • Streeterville
  • South Loop
  • West Loop (partial coverage)

ZIP Codes within the 312 Telephone Zone (Examples)

  • 60601 - The Loop
  • 60602 - The Loop
  • 60603 - The Loop
  • 60604 - The Loop
  • 60605 - South Loop
  • 60606 - West Loop
  • 60610 - Near North Side
  • 60611 - Streeterville
  • 60654 - River North

Time Zone

The 312 area code is located in the Central Time Zone (CT), observing Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6) in winter and Central Daylight Time (CDT, UTC-5) during daylight saving time.

Dialing, Phone & Service Details

  • Local dialing: 10-digit dialing is required due to overlay area code 872.
  • Long-distance calls within the USA: Dial 1 + 312 + 7-digit number.
  • International calls: Dial your country�s exit code + 1 + 312 + 7-digit number.
  • Services: The 312 area code supports landline phones, mobile phones, VoIP, and business telecommunication services.

Why the 312 Area Code Matters

The 312 area code is a key identifier for Chicago�s downtown business and cultural districts. It is associated with corporate offices, law firms, financial institutions, and government centers. Due to its historic significance and prestige, many businesses prefer to maintain 312 numbers, even with the overlay 872 in place.

What area code is 312? / Where's area code 312?

What area code is 312? � 312 is a telephone area code serving downtown Chicago, Illinois, including The Loop, Near North Side, River North, and Streeterville.

Where's area code 312? � It is located in central Chicago, Illinois, USA, covering the central business district and surrounding neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 312 Area Code

What is the 312 area code?

312 serves downtown Chicago, including The Loop, Near North Side, River North, and Streeterville.

When was the 312 area code created?

It was established in 1947 as one of Illinois� original area codes.

Where is area code 312 located?

It is located in central Chicago, Illinois, USA.

What time zone is 312 in?

The 312 area code follows Central Time (CST/CDT).

Which neighborhoods are included in 312?

The Loop, Near North Side, River North, Streeterville, South Loop, and parts of West Loop.

312 Area Code