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Area Code 201 New Jersey: Complete Guide to Coverage, Cities & Phone Numbers (2025)
Area code 201 serves northeastern New Jersey including Jersey City, Hoboken, and 13+ major cities. Learn about 201 phone numbers, coverage map, history, and telecom providers in this complete 2025 guide.
Area Code 201 New Jersey: Complete Guide to Coverage, Cities & Phone Numbers (2025)
Area code 201 serves northeastern New Jersey's Hudson and Bergen counties, covering major cities including Jersey City, Hoboken, Hackensack, Fort Lee, and Englewood. Established in 1947 as America's first area code under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), area code 201 remains the state's most densely populated telecommunications region, directly adjacent to Manhattan.
Looking to get a 201 phone number or understand the 201/551 overlay system? The combined 201/551 numbering plan area continues to experience high demand for new telephone numbers. Businesses and residents seeking local New Jersey phone numbers should verify availability with carriers promptly, as utilization rates fluctuate based on regional growth and telecommunications demand.
What Cities and Counties Does Area Code 201 Cover?
Area code 201 covers northeastern New Jersey's most economically vital region, encompassing over 15 major cities across Hudson County and Bergen County. The densely populated area benefits from proximity to New York City, making 201 numbers highly desirable for businesses serving the NYC metropolitan area.
The following area code 201 map shows all cities and towns served by this historic numbering plan area:
Hudson County Cities Served by Area Code 201
Major Hudson County locations include:
- Jersey City, NJ (40.72816, -74.07764) – The region's largest city and financial hub
- Hoboken, NJ (40.74399, -74.03236) – Vibrant waterfront community with Manhattan skyline views
- Union City, NJ (40.77955, -74.02375) – Dense urban center with thriving local commerce
- West New York, NJ (40.78788, -74.01431) – Established residential community
- North Bergen, NJ (40.80427, -74.01208) – Commercial and industrial center
- Bayonne, NJ (40.66871, -74.11431) – Strategic peninsula location
- Kearny, NJ (40.76843, -74.14542) – Industrial and manufacturing hub
Bergen County Cities with Area Code 201
Bergen County locations include:
- Hackensack, NJ (40.88593, -74.04347) – County seat and administrative center
- Fort Lee, NJ (40.85093, -73.97014) – High-rise residential area with George Washington Bridge access
- Englewood, NJ (40.89288, -73.97264) – Historic telecommunications landmark
- Teaneck, NJ (40.8976, -74.01597) – Diverse suburban community
- Paramus, NJ (40.94454, -74.07542) – Premier shopping and retail destination
- Bergenfield, NJ (40.9276, -73.99736) – Well-established suburban enclave
- Fair Lawn, NJ (40.94038, -74.13181) – Family-oriented residential community
- Ridgewood, NJ (40.97926, -74.11653) – Affluent suburban village
- Cliffside Park, NJ (40.82149, -73.98764) – Hudson River waterfront community
Historic Significance: On November 10, 1951, Englewood was the origin point of America's first direct-dialed long-distance call to Alameda, California. Mayor M. Leslie Denning of Englewood called Mayor Frank Osborne of Alameda, eliminating the need for operator assistance and launching the direct-dialing era. [CITE:ddd-wiki]
How to Get a 201 Phone Number in New Jersey
Obtaining a 201 area code phone number requires selecting a telecommunications provider and service type. Multiple carriers offer 201 numbers through landline, wireless, and VoIP services.
Leading Telecommunications Providers for Area Code 201
The 201 area code region has robust competition among major carriers offering New Jersey phone numbers:
Primary Carriers:
- Verizon – Dominant wireline provider with extensive fiber optic infrastructure
- AT&T – Full-spectrum services including advanced 5G wireless networks
- T-Mobile – Nationwide wireless coverage with aggressive 5G expansion
- Comcast/Xfinity – Cable services with comprehensive VoIP solutions
- Optimum – Regional provider specializing in bundled telecommunications packages
Service Options for 201 Phone Numbers
Choose from these service categories when securing a 201 phone number:
Traditional Landline Solutions
- Reliable copper-wire connectivity for consistent business communications
- Ideal for enterprises requiring guaranteed uptime and local business phone systems
- Available through Verizon and regional carriers
Advanced Wireless Services
- Comprehensive 5G and 4G LTE coverage throughout the region
- Area code 201 numbers available for mobile service across all major carriers
- Extended coverage includes select rate centers in neighboring 973 and 908 areas
Note: Area code 201 wireless numbers may be assigned in certain rate centers outside the primary Hudson/Bergen coverage area, including Newark, Morristown, and New Brunswick. Check with your carrier to confirm geographic assignment.
VoIP and Digital Solutions
- Internet-based VoIP phone services with 201 area code numbers
- Cost-effective options for both residential and business users
- Advanced features: call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, video conferencing, and mobile integration
What's the Difference Between Area Codes 201 and 551?
Understanding the 201 and 551 relationship is essential for anyone obtaining a New Jersey phone number in this region.
Understanding Area Code 551's Role
Area code 551 was introduced in 2001 as an overlay to 201, solving the region's number shortage while preserving existing customer numbers. This doubled numbering capacity without disrupting service. [CITE:wiki-201]
Number Availability: Demand for new numbers remains strong in this densely populated region. Contact carriers directly to verify current 201 and 551 number availability. For more details about the overlay code, see our complete guide to area code 551.
Essential Overlay Facts
- Identical geographic coverage – Both codes serve the same cities and regions
- Mandatory 10-digit dialing – All local calls require area code + seven digits
- Equal service quality – No functional differences between 201 and 551 numbers
- Expanded capacity – Ensures long-term number availability
Area Code 201 History: America's First Area Code
Understanding area code 201 history reveals its significance in American telecommunications.
Key Telecommunications Milestones
Area code 201 blazed the trail for modern telecommunications:
- 1947: Designated as America's first area code under the North American Numbering Plan [CITE:wiki-201]
- November 10, 1951: Englewood launches the direct-dialing era with the first long-distance call to California [CITE:ddd-wiki]
- 1956: Southern New Jersey splits off to create area code 609 [CITE:wiki-201]
- 1991: Central New Jersey receives area code 908 designation [CITE:wiki-201]
- 1997: Northern New Jersey transitions to area code 973 [CITE:wiki-201]
- 2001: Area code 551 overlay implementation with mandatory 10-digit dialing [CITE:wiki-201]
The 1997 split moved Essex, Passaic, Morris, and Sussex counties to area code 973, leaving 201 exclusively serving Hudson and Bergen counties – the two most densely populated counties in New Jersey and those closest to New York City.
This progression reflects the region's continuous growth and increasing demand for telecommunications services.
How Do I Get a 201 Area Code Number?
Follow this process to obtain a 201 phone number for business or personal use:
Acquisition Process
- Define your service requirements (landline, wireless, or VoIP business phone)
- Research carrier options and compare service packages from major providers
- Verify number availability for both 201 and 551 options
- Complete provider registration, select your 201 area code number, and activate your service
Why Do Businesses Choose 201 Area Code Numbers?
Why do businesses choose 201 phone numbers over other New Jersey area codes?
Key Business Advantages
Enterprises choose 201 area code numbers for these competitive advantages:
- Metropolitan market presence without Manhattan's premium costs
- Historical prestige associated with America's first area code
- Local credibility with New Jersey and regional customers
- Professional recognition in the NYC metropolitan corridor
Economic Impact and Demographics
Regional Business Landscape
The 201 area code region serves approximately 1.7 million residents across New Jersey's most economically dynamic areas. Bergen County is the state's most populous county with approximately 978,000 residents, while Hudson County (approximately 710,000 residents) leads the state in population growth. Key industry sectors include:
- Financial services leveraging proximity to Wall Street
- Technology companies benefiting from talent pipeline and infrastructure
- Healthcare systems serving regional population centers
- Transportation and logistics utilizing strategic location advantages
- Real estate development capitalizing on metropolitan demand
Competitive Business Advantages
201 area code phone numbers provide measurable benefits for companies:
- Cost-effective NYC market access with New Jersey operational efficiency
- Enhanced local credibility with regional customer base
- Professional brand recognition through historic area code association
- Optimal time zone alignment for East Coast business operations
Regulatory Information and Dialing Rules
Compliance and Oversight
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) maintains regulatory oversight of area code 201 operations, ensuring adherence to North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) standards and consumer protection regulations. [CITE:njbpu-about]
10-Digit Dialing Requirements
Understanding 10-digit dialing rules for area code 201:
- Universal 10-digit dialing mandatory since December 1, 2001 [CITE:security-2001]
- Standard format: Area code + seven-digit number (example: 201-555-0123)
- All local calls within 201/551 overlay require full 10-digit dialing
- Emergency services: Dial 911 directly (area code not required)
What Time Zone Is Area Code 201?
Area code 201 time zone information for business planning:
- Eastern Standard Time (EST): UTC-5 (November through March)
- Eastern Daylight Time (EDT): UTC-4 (March through November)
This alignment with New York City's time zone facilitates seamless business coordination across the metropolitan region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Area Code 201
Common questions about getting and using 201 and 551 phone numbers in New Jersey:
What cities are in the 201 area code?
Area code 201 encompasses northeastern New Jersey's Hudson and Bergen counties, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Hackensack, Fort Lee, Englewood, Union City, Bayonne, Teaneck, Paramus, West New York, North Bergen, and many other communities in this densely populated region.
Is area code 201 toll-free?
No. Area code 201 is a standard geographic area code. Toll-free services use dedicated codes: 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, and 833.
Why is area code 201 historically significant?
Area code 201 was America's first area code, established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). [CITE:wiki-201] Englewood also hosted the first direct-dialed long-distance call on November 10, 1951. [CITE:ddd-wiki]
Do I need to dial 10 digits for local calls in area code 201?
Yes. The 551 overlay implementation in 2001 mandated 10-digit dialing for all calls within the 201/551 service area. Dial the area code plus the seven-digit phone number for all local calls.
Can I transfer my 201 number between carriers?
Yes. Area code 201 numbers are fully portable between telecommunications providers. Contact your new carrier to initiate the number porting process, which typically takes 1–3 business days.
What's the relationship between 201 and 551 area codes?
Both codes serve identical geographic regions in Hudson and Bergen counties. Area code 551 was added as an overlay in 2001 to expand numbering capacity while preserving existing 201 customers' numbers. There is no functional difference between the two codes.
Which major cities use area code 201?
Primary cities include Jersey City, Hoboken, Hackensack, Fort Lee, Englewood, Union City, Bayonne, Teaneck, Paramus, and numerous other Hudson and Bergen County communities.
How much does it cost to get a 201 phone number?
201 phone number cost varies by provider and service type. Traditional landlines through Verizon typically range from $30-50/month, while VoIP services start as low as $10-20/month. Mobile carriers include 201 area code numbers as part of standard wireless plans. Business VoIP systems may offer 201 numbers with advanced features starting around $20-30 per user monthly.
Are 201 area code numbers running out?
The combined 201/551 numbering plan area continues to experience strong demand for new numbers. NANPA monitors utilization and implements relief measures as needed. [CITE:nanpa-home] Numbers remain available through most carriers, though availability varies by exchange. Contact carriers directly to verify current inventory for your preferred service type.
The Future of Area Code 201
Area code 201 continues evolving to meet telecommunications demands while honoring its historic legacy. As America's first area code, it maintains special significance for businesses and residents who value tradition alongside modern connectivity.
The combined 201/551 numbering plan provides numbering resources for the region, with NANPA continuing to monitor capacity and implement relief measures as needed. [CITE:nanpa-home]
For current regulations and additional telecommunications resources, consult the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities for official guidance and updates.
Last updated: October 5, 2025 | Coverage information and carrier data independently verified
Citations
[CITE:wiki-201] "Area codes 201 and 551." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_codes_201_and_551. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:upi-1951] "First dialed long distance call history." UPI Archives, November 11, 1951. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1951/11/11/First-dialed-long-distance-call-history/9151541817664/. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:njmonthly-direct] "The First Direct-Dial Phone Call Took Place In New Jersey." New Jersey Monthly, November 30, 2001. https://njmonthly.com/articles/jersey-living/ringing-in-the-new/. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:deadcell-nj] Cohn, Jeff. "New Jersey Cell Phone Coverage Map & 5G Coverage Reviews." Dead Cell Zones, August 6, 2024. https://www.deadcellzones.com/New-Jersey.html. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:njbpu-about] "About BPU." New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. https://www.nj.gov/bpu/about/index.html. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:security-2001] "N.J. RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES TO USE 10-DIGIT DIALING DEC. 1." Security Sales & Integration, November 29, 2001. https://www.securitysales.com/news/nj-residents-and-businesses-to-use-10-digit-dialing-dec-1/49123/. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:wiki-908] "Area code 908." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_code_908. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:ddd-wiki] "Direct distance dialing." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct_distance_dialing. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:nanpa-home] "Home | NANPA." North American Numbering Plan Administration. https://www.nanpa.com/. Accessed October 5, 2025.
[CITE:original-codes] "Original North American area codes." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_North_American_area_codes. Accessed October 5, 2025.
Verified on: October 5, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What area code covers Bergenfield, NJ?
Bergenfield, NJ is covered by area code 201.
What is the area code for Englewood, NJ, and what is its historical significance?
Englewood, NJ uses area code 201. It's historically significant as the origin point of the first direct-dialed long-distance call in 1951.
What area code is Hoboken NJ in and what other major cities share the same code?
Hoboken, NJ is in area code 201, along with other major cities like Jersey City, Bayonne, and Hackensack.
What area code is assigned to Jersey City?
Jersey City is assigned area code 201.
What is the history of area code 201 in New Jersey?
Area code 201 was the first area code assigned in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) in 1947. It has since been split to create area codes 609, 908, and 973, and now has an overlay area code of 551.
What is the overlay area code for 201, and when was it implemented?
The overlay area code for 201 is 551, implemented in 2001.
Why does area code 201 require 10-digit dialing?
10-digit dialing is required in area code 201 (and its overlay 551) to ensure accurate call routing and efficient number usage.
What telecom carriers serve the 201 area code?
Major telecom carriers in area code 201 include Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, along with other smaller providers.
What types of phone services are available in area code 201?
Area code 201 supports landline, wireless, and VoIP services.
What is the approximate market share of Verizon in area code 201?
Verizon holds approximately 45% of the market share in area code 201.
What is the utilization rate of area codes 201 and 551, and when are they projected to be exhausted?
The combined utilization rate for area codes 201 and 551 is approximately 70%, and projections suggest exhaustion by 2025.
What are the coordinates of Bayonne, NJ within area code 201?
Bayonne, NJ is located at approximately 40.66871 latitude, -74.11431 longitude.
What is the regulatory body that oversees area code 201?
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) oversees area code 201.
Why was area code 551 added to the 201 area code region?
Area code 551 was added as an overlay to area code 201 to provide additional numbering capacity while allowing continued use of existing 7-digit numbers.
What area code is Bayonne NJ?
Bayonne, NJ is covered by area code 201. This area code is one of the original North American Numbering Plan codes and primarily serves northeastern New Jersey, including Hudson and Bergen counties.
What area is area code 201 in New Jersey?
Area code 201 covers the northeastern region of New Jersey, primarily Hudson and Bergen counties. This area is densely populated and located adjacent to New York City.
How many area codes are in New Jersey?
While the article focuses on area code 201, it mentions several others that were originally part of 201 but split off due to growing demand. These include area codes 609, 908, and 973, in addition to overlay code 551. The article does not give the total number of current area codes, however.
What is the history of area code 201?
Area code 201 was assigned in 1947 as the very first area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). It originally covered a much larger area but has been split multiple times to create area codes 609, 908, and 973.
How to dial a 201 number from another area code?
You must dial the full 10-digit number (including the area code) for all calls within area code 201 and its overlay, area code 551. This regulation was implemented on December 1, 2001, to ensure accurate call routing.
Why does area code 201 have an overlay?
Area code 551 was introduced in 2001 as an overlay to area code 201 to provide additional numbering capacity while allowing continued use of existing 7-digit numbers. This helps avoid number exhaustion in the densely populated area.
When should I use 10-digit dialing for 201?
Ten-digit dialing (including the area code) is mandatory for all calls within area code 201 and its overlay, area code 551, regardless of whether it's a local call. This rule has been in effect since December 1, 2001.
What is the utilization rate of area code 201?
The combined utilization rate for area codes 201 and 551 is approximately 70% of the 7.92 million available numbers. Projections suggest these numbers could be exhausted by 2025.
What telecom companies serve area code 201?
Several major carriers serve area code 201, including Verizon (45% market share), AT&T (30%), and T-Mobile (15%). Smaller carriers and specialized services make up the remaining 10% of the market.
What telecom services are in area code 201?
Area code 201 supports landlines, wireless (mobile phone), and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services.
Can I still get a landline in area code 201?
Yes, traditional landline service is still available in area code 201, along with wireless and VoIP options, offering a variety of choices for consumers.
Where was the first direct-dialed long distance call made?
The first direct-dialed long-distance call was made from Englewood, NJ, within area code 201, in 1951. This was a pivotal moment in the history of telecommunications.
What is the overlay area code for 201?
The overlay area code for 201 is 551. This overlay was implemented in 2001 to address the growing demand for telephone numbers in the region.
Who regulates area code 201 in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) oversees area code 201, ensuring compliance with regulations set by the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA).
When was area code 551 added to New Jersey?
Area code 551 was introduced as an overlay to area code 201 in 2001. This overlay system allows for more phone numbers within the same geographic area.