Frequently Asked Questions
Buffalo, New York, is primarily served by area code 716. However, due to increased demand, area code 624 was added as an overlay, serving the same geographic region. Both area codes now coexist in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area and surrounding counties.
To dial a 716 number from a different area code, dial 1 + the 10-digit number (1 + area code + 7-digit number). The "1" designates a long-distance call, enabling connection to the 716 network. Remember to always dial the full 10-digit number, including the area code, even for local calls within the same region.
Buffalo now has two area codes, 716 and 624, due to the projected exhaustion of available prefixes within the 716 area code. The introduction of 624 as an overlay ensures a continued supply of phone numbers for the growing population and businesses in Western New York. The overlay allows both area codes to be used within the same geographic region.
Niagara Falls, NY is covered by area codes 716 and 624. Area code 624 was added as an overlay to 716 due to the region's increasing demand for phone numbers. Both codes serve the same geographic area.
You should always use 10-digit dialing (area code + 7-digit number) for all calls within area code 716, including local calls. This practice is necessary due to the implementation of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which required changes to dialing procedures nationwide.
Area code 716 covers several counties in Western New York, including Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua. While Buffalo is the largest city, the 716 area code encompasses a broader region, reflecting the interconnectedness of these communities.
To make an operator-assisted call within the 716 area code, dial 0 + the 10-digit number (0 + area code + 7-digit number). This will connect you to an operator who can assist with specialized calls, such as collect calls or calls requiring translation services.
Established in 1947, area code 716 was one of the original North American area codes. It initially covered a larger area of New York State but was reduced over time as demand for phone numbers grew. The introduction of the 624 overlay represents the latest chapter in its evolution.
Yes, you can still get a 716 area code number, but due to the implementation of the 624 overlay, new numbers may be assigned with the 624 area code instead. Both 716 and 624 now serve the same geographic area in Western New York.
Major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile operate within area code 716, providing a range of mobile and landline services. This competitive landscape offers consumers various plans and options to meet their individual needs and preferences.
Area code 716, along with all other North American area codes, is regulated by the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA). NANPA oversees the allocation and assignment of numbering resources, ensuring the long-term stability and efficient function of the telecommunications system.
Exploring Area Code 716: Buffalo, New York
Area code 716 serves Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and the surrounding Western New York region. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: geographic coverage across four counties, the 624 area code overlay, 10-digit dialing requirements, major cities and towns, time zone information, telecommunications carriers, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you're a resident, business owner, or newcomer to Western New York, you'll understand how 716 phone numbers work and how to navigate the region's telecommunications system.
What Area Code 716 Covers: Geographic Map and Boundaries
Area code 716 (and its overlay 624) serves Western New York, encompassing four counties: Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua. The region also includes portions of Allegany County. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2024 population estimates, Erie County has approximately 948,386 residents. The entire Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls metropolitan area comprises approximately 1.16 million people as of 2024, making it a significant telecommunications market.
The area code's geographic boundaries align with Western New York's natural borders: Lake Erie to the west, Lake Ontario to the north, and the Pennsylvania border (Area Code 814) to the south. To the east, Area Code 716 borders Area Code 585, which serves the Rochester region.
Major Cities and Towns in the 716 Area Code
The 716 area code encompasses over 80 cities and towns across Western New York. Major population centers include:
Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET)
The 716 area code operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). The region observes:
Like most of the United States, Western New York observes Daylight Saving Time, shifting clocks forward one hour in March and back one hour in November. This time zone alignment keeps Buffalo synchronized with major East Coast business centers including New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C.
How to Dial 716 Phone Numbers: Complete Instructions
Follow specific patterns depending on the type of call you're making.
Dialing Patterns Explained
Emergency and Special Service Numbers
Understanding the 624 Area Code Overlay
Area Code 716, like all area codes in North America, operates under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). NANPA manages numbering resources and ensures the long-term viability of the telecommunications system.
The Role of NANPA
The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) oversees the allocation and assignment of area codes and other numbering resources within the NANP. NANPA monitors the rate at which phone numbers are assigned and projects when an area code will exhaust its available prefixes (central office codes). When exhaustion is imminent, NANPA works with state regulators to implement relief measures such as overlays or splits.
For consumers, NANPA's oversight means phone numbers remain available for new services, businesses, and residents. NANPA also maintains the authoritative database of area code assignments and publishes planning letters announcing upcoming changes.
Area Code 624 Overlay Implementation
In its 2022 NRUF and NPA Exhaust Analysis, NANPA projected that Area Code 716 would exhaust its available prefixes in 2024. In response, the New York Public Service Commission approved Area Code 624 as an overlay in October 2022. The 624 area code officially entered service on September 11, 2023, with an earliest activation date for new central office codes of November 16, 2023.
What the 624 overlay means for you:
History of Area Code 716: From 1947 to Today
Area Code 716 has a rich history, reflecting the evolution of telecommunications in Western New York. Understanding this history provides valuable context for the current telecommunications landscape.
From 1947 to the Present
Established in 1947 as one of the original 86 North American area codes created by AT&T, Area Code 716 initially covered a much larger portion of New York State, extending as far east as Corning in Central New York. This extensive territory reflected the lower demand for phone numbers in the post-World War II era.
Key historical milestones:
Throughout its history, Area Code 716 has become a symbol of regional identity for Western New York, with residents and businesses expressing strong attachment to the area code as a marker of community connection.
Phone Carriers and Service Providers in the 716 Area Code
Multiple telecommunications providers serve the 716/624 area codes, offering services from traditional landlines to advanced mobile networks and Voice over IP (VoIP) systems. The competitive market provides consumers and businesses with numerous options.
Major Mobile and Landline Carriers
National Carriers: The three major nationwide carriers operate extensive networks in the 716/624 region:
Regional and Local Providers: Several regional carriers also serve the area:
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): Choose from MVNOs such as Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Consumer Cellular, and others that operate on the networks of major carriers but often offer lower-cost plans.
VoIP and Business Phone Services
VoIP Providers: Voice over IP technology is increasingly popular for both residential and business users in the 716/624 area:
Business Telecommunications Features: Business-focused providers offer:
Considerations for Choosing a Provider:
Frequently Asked Questions About Area Code 716
This section addresses the most common questions about Area Code 716. You'll find quick solutions to common inquiries.
What cities are in the 716 area code?
Area Code 716 (and its overlay 624) covers Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties, plus portions of Allegany County in Western New York. Major cities include Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Lockport, Jamestown, Tonawanda, Cheektowaga, West Seneca, and Olean.
How do I dial a number within Area Code 716?
For local calls within Area Code 716/624, dial the full 10-digit number (area code + 7-digit number). This requirement has been in effect since October 24, 2021.
How do I dial a number outside of Area Code 716?
For calls outside of Area Code 716/624 but within the United States or Canada, dial 1 + area code + 7-digit number.
How do I make international calls from 716?
Dial 011 + country code + city code + local number. For example: 011-44-20-XXXX-XXXX for London, UK.
What time zone is 716 in?
Area code 716 operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), observing Eastern Standard Time (EST: UTC-5) from November to March and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT: UTC-4) from March to November.
Is Area Code 716 going to change?
Area Code 716 remains in use and existing 716 numbers will not change. However, the 624 overlay was introduced on September 11, 2023, meaning new phone numbers in the same geographic area may receive either 716 or 624 area codes. Both area codes serve identical coverage areas.
What is the 624 area code?
The 624 area code is an overlay introduced on November 16, 2023, that serves the exact same geographic region as 716. New phone numbers may be assigned either 716 or 624 based on availability. All local calls require 10-digit dialing.
Who regulates Area Code 716?
The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) regulates Area Code 716, overseeing numbering resources across North America. The New York State Public Service Commission has jurisdiction over telecommunications services and area code changes within New York.
Can I keep my 716 number if I change phone companies?
Yes. Federal regulations require carriers to support number portability, allowing you to keep your existing 716 or 624 phone number when switching service providers within the same geographic area. Contact your new provider to initiate a port request, which typically takes 1–7 business days.
How do I get a new 716 or 624 area code number?
Contact any telecommunications provider serving Western New York. When you request new service, the provider will assign an available number, which may have either a 716 or 624 area code depending on availability. You cannot typically choose which area code you receive, though you may be able to select from available numbers within the assigned area code.
What cell phone carriers operate in the 716 area code?
Major carriers including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile operate extensive wireless networks throughout the 716/624 region. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) such as Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and Consumer Cellular also provide service using the major carriers' networks.
How can I protect myself from scam calls?
Conclusion: Your Guide to 716 Phone Numbers in Western New York
Area Code 716 (and its overlay partner 624) serves as vital telecommunications infrastructure for Western New York's communities and businesses. From its establishment in 1947 as one of the original North American area codes to the 2023 introduction of the 624 overlay, the region's numbering plan has evolved to meet growing demand while maintaining continuity for existing users.
Key takeaways for Buffalo and Western New York phone numbers:
Whether you're a long-time resident, a new arrival, or a business establishing a presence in Buffalo and Western New York, understanding these telecommunications fundamentals will help you stay effectively connected in this dynamic region.